"American Primeval" is one of the best shows on Netflix

By The Real Perspectives

Published on January 14, 2025

Netflix

American Primeval is the gripping new Western limited series that premiered on Netflix on January 9 with six episodes, and it is already one of the best shows of the new year and one of the most streamed, rising to the top of the ratings chart almost immediately. The series dramatically follows the deadly civil war between the Mormons, Natives, Pioneers, and the US government in 1857, each fighting for survival and control on the American frontier. At the heart of the series is Sara, a mother, and her son, Devin, on a collision course, with the help of a lone survivalist who acts as their guide and an Indigenous runaway, Two Moons, caught between the brutality of survival.

Created and written by Mark L. Smith (The Revenant), and directed by Peter Berg, the series is also executive produced by Alexander H. Gayner and Eric Newman.

The series stars:

• Taylor Kitsch as Isaac Reed

• Betty Gilpin as Sara Rowell

• Dane DeHaan as Jacob Pratt

• Saura Lightfoot-Leon as Abish Pratt

• Derek Hinkey as Red Feather

• Joe Tippett as James Wolsey

• Jai Courtney as Virgil Cutter

• Preston Mota as Devin Rowell

• Shawnee Pourier as Two Moons

• Shea Whigham as Jim Bridger

Netflix

American Primeval is gritty and unflinchingly violent in its authenticity, with Smith getting inspiration from the Mountain Meadows Massacre where 120 people were killed, incorporating real-life events and historical figures such as Bill Hickman, Brigham Young and Jim Bridger into the series. Amidst the brutality, the series is rich in emotional depth in a story showcasing courage, love, hope, and strength.

The series is absolutely gripping from start to finish. Suspenseful and action-packed. Even though American Primeval is promoted as a limited series, we eagerly anticipate confirmation of season 2 for this must-see series.

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All episodes of American Primeval are currently streaming on Netflix.

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