“American Primeval” Review: A Proto-Western Disaster
“American Primeval” is a proto-Western series that fails to find its footing, ultimately disappointing viewers at every turn. Set in 1857 Utah territory, the show follows a group of characters as they navigate through the rugged landscape of the American frontier. Despite committed performances and impressive production design, the series falls short in delivering an engaging and authentic viewing experience.
The narrative is centered around a braided storyline that lacks depth and substance, relying heavily on worn-out genre tropes. The characters, including Sara, Devin, Jim Bridger, Isaac Reed, Jacob, and Abish, navigate through a treacherous landscape filled with violence and danger. However, the series fails to offer anything new or innovative, instead relying on tired cliches and stereotypes.
From a visual standpoint, “American Primeval” misses the mark with its color-washed scenes and overuse of Dutch angles. The series’ commitment to close-up handheld shots further detracts from the overall viewing experience, leaving viewers feeling disoriented and disconnected from the story.
Despite attempts to subvert traditional gender and racial stereotypes, “American Primeval” ultimately falls back on outdated narratives that perpetuate harmful myths about the American West. The series struggles to portray Native Americans and women in a meaningful and respectful way, ultimately failing to challenge the status quo of the Western genre.
While the cast delivers strong performances, particularly Taylor Kitsch, Betty Gilpin, and Shawnee Pourier, they are ultimately let down by a lackluster script and direction. The series’ attempts to inject emotional depth and complexity fall short, leaving viewers feeling underwhelmed and unengaged.
In conclusion, “American Primeval” misses the mark as both entertainment and historical representation. With its poorly researched narrative and lackluster execution, the series fails to deliver a compelling viewing experience. As it debuts on Netflix, viewers may be better off seeking out more engaging and authentic Western dramas.
Source link
