‘American Primeval’ Review | A Vicious History Creates Western Glory

2024 stood out as one of the most remarkable years for the Western genre, filled with hidden gems such as “The Dead Don’t Hurt,” “The Settlers,” and “The Thicket,” alongside costly, overblown productions like “Horizon: An American Saga.” We also saw genre-blending films like “The Last Stop at Yuma County” and “Place of Bones,” as well as compelling true tales like “End of the Rope” and “The Night They Came Home.” It appears that this trend is persisting, with the initial outstanding series of 2025 being an electrifying historical Western offering unforgettable performances. The Netflix series “American Primeval” is nothing short of spectacular, boasting enough action, mystery, history, and artistry to captivate almost everyone.

In a blend reminiscent of “The Searchers,” “The Revenant,” “Deadwood,” and “A Fistful of Dollars,” the series “American Primeval” weaves an intricate tale involving a diverse cast, each following their unique storylines that eventually converge in captivating ways. The cinematography by Jacques Jouffret masterfully switches between raw, intense portrayals of the characters and breathtakingly stunning landscapes, reflecting the show’s central theme—the intricate connection between violence and civilization. Contrary to popular belief that January is a dumping ground for films and television, “American Primeval” promises to stand out as one of the best shows in 2025.

The Silent Taylor Kitsch and the Suspicious Betty Gilpin

On my personal journey, I embark on a straightforward mission – Sara Rowell, a character as captivating as Betty Gilpin, and her son Devin, played by Preston Mota, are traversing the tumultuous frontier in an attempt to reunite with her husband. Initially, our guide meets a tragic end, and the replacement, the enigmatic loner Isaac (Taylor Kitsch), initially refuses to join us. However, circumstances lead us to form an alliance with a Mormon caravan bound for Utah, under the guidance of Brigham Young, portrayed brilliantly by Kim Coates. Little do we know, a mute young Indigenous girl named Two Moons (Shawnee Pourier) has secretly stowed away in our wagon, fleeing after avenging her sexually predatory father.

Choosing to travel with the Mormons could lead Sara and Devin into a dangerous network of deceit, death, and political intrigue. In 1857, tensions escalate between the Mormons, who seek territorial independence, and the U.S. government, leading to the Utah War. Sadly, Sara and Devin boarded a wagon train destined for a temporary settlement that would later be the site of the Mountain Meadows Massacre. American Primeval chronicles the survivors of this horrific event (graphically portrayed) — Sara, Devin, and Two Moons; Jacob Pratt (Dane DeHaan) and his wife Abish (Saura Lightfoot-Leon), who are about to be captured; and Isaac, who witnesses it all and helps Sara, Devin, and Two Moons escape.

Taylor Kitsch Paints the Snow Red with Blood

In a familiar yet refreshing manner, Kitsch portrays Kitsch as a rugged, taciturn character with a veiled history, exceptional combat abilities, and intriguing connections. However, what sets him apart is the depth he infuses into the role of Isaac – raw emotion, fury (which later evolves into vulnerability). The captivating narrative involving Sara and Devin in “American Primeval” offers some of its most exhilarating moments, guiding them through snowy woodlands, concealed caverns, expansive prairies, and indigenous settlements. Each action sequence he’s involved in is truly remarkable.

A Fascinating Study of Religion and Civilization

Betty Gilpin delivers a subtle, heavy-hearted performance that equals her co-star’s intensity. Just like Sara, she harbors a secretive past which complicates and puts Isaac’s life in danger, drawing them closer together. In this role, Gilpin demonstrates the exact kind of survival instinct portrayed so effectively in American Primeval.