“American Primeval,” a six-part Western miniseries that premiered on Netflix on January 9, 2025, offers a stark portrayal of the American frontier during the 1857 Utah Territory conflicts.
Created by Mark L. Smith and directed by Peter Berg, the series delves into the violent clashes among settlers, Mormons, Native American tribes, and the U.S. military.
The narrative centers on Sara Rowell (Betty Gilpin) and her son, Devin, as they journey westward, encountering the enigmatic guide Isaac Reed (Taylor Kitsch). Their path intersects with various historical figures, including Brigham Young (Kim Coates) and mountain man Jim Bridger (Shea Whigham), against a backdrop of events like the Mountain Meadows Massacre. The series is noted for its unflinching depiction of the era’s brutality, with intense scenes of violence and survival.
Critics have offered mixed reviews. The Financial Times describes it as a “darker alternative to Yellowstone,” praising its high-quality production but noting a lack of character development. The Times highlights its “hyper-realistic depiction” of the Old West, cautioning that its relentless bleakness may not appeal to all viewers. Vulture commends the series’ ambition but criticizes its disjointed narrative, suggesting it feels like “three Westerns in one.” Forbes refers to it as a “bleak and bloody affair,” emphasizing its unsentimental storytelling.
On review aggregator Rotten Tomatoes, “American Primeval” holds a 59% approval rating based on 12 reviews, indicating mixed reactions. Metacritic assigns it a score of 60 out of 100, reflecting average reviews.
“American Primeval” provides a gritty and unvarnished look at a tumultuous period in American history. While its commitment to realism and strong performances are commendable, the series’ relentless depiction of violence and its fragmented storytelling may not resonate with all audiences.
Writer’s Note: At the time of this publishing, we have viewed three episodes. While we agree the series is brutal and extremely violent, what has caught our interest is the story angle involving the Mormons and the extent to which they were willing to go in order to secure the future of their sect. For that reason alone, we give this series a recommendation to watch!
