The streaming giant Netflix is set to premiere the limited series American Primeval on 9 January 9. Directed by Pete Berg and starring Taylor Kitsch and Betty Gilpin, this six-episode series offers a gritty, unflinching look at the brutal frontier life of 1857 America.
“We are very appreciative that Netflix is trusting us to take a big swing with American Primeval,” says director and executive producer Pete Berg, known for his work on Friday Night Lights and Lone Survivor. “I’m looking forward to taking viewers into the most dynamic, intense, and heart-pounding survival tale humanly possible. We are going into the belly of the beast.”
American Primeval plunges into a violent collision of culture, religion, and community, portraying a world where peace is scarce, and survival is the only goal. The narrative explores the sacrifices made by men and women who dared to settle in the lawless wilderness, highlighting the harsh realities of life on the frontier.
Taylor Kitsch leads the ensemble cast as Isaac, a man haunted by his past and grappling with inner demons. The series reunites Kitsch with Berg and showrunner Eric Newman, following their collaboration on Painkiller.
Watch the trailer here:
The cast also features Kim Coates as Brigham Young, the resolute leader of the Mormon Church, Jai Courtney as the cunning bounty hunter Virgil Cutter, and Betty Gilpin as Sara Rowell, a composed yet determined woman seeking safe passage across the perilous terrain for herself and her son.
Supporting roles include Dane DeHaan as Jacob Pratt, a Mormon leading his family to Utah, and Preston Mota as Devin Rowell, Sara’s inquisitive and sensitive son. Shea Whigham portrays Jim Bridger, the grizzled realist who runs a key fort for settlers and trappers.
The series promises to immerse viewers in the rugged landscapes of the American West, portraying a society where “civilization” is a tenuous concept. With its intense storytelling and character-driven narrative, American Primeval is poised to capture the raw essence of a bygone era.
The series is produced under Berg’s first-look deal with Netflix, written by Mark L. Smith (The Revenant), and boasts a team of executive producers including Eric Newman (Narcos). The show aims to deliver a visceral viewing experience, blending historical drama with compelling character arcs.
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