“Primeval,” a Netflix limited series which is known for being a historical drama set in 1857 Utah. It is praised for showcasing complicated themes with realistic settings along with an amazing performance by their cast members. The story revolves around interactions between natives, pioneers, Mormon soldiers and the U.S. Government.
Series Overview and Inspiration
“ American Primeval ” which quickly claimed its spot as most popular on the platform debuted from a creative direction by Peter Berg using writing by Mark L. Smith to bring stories to life with real historical aspects and add a modern take to the show’s development.
Historical Basis
Berg originally found inspiration in 2020 from “ Mountain Meadow Massacre .” His creative partner in “The Revenant” Mark L. Smith had already had a long time fascination with the idea of Fort Bridger allowing him a familiar space to create this project. They used that as an approach to creating an honest historical outlook with the production's core beliefs.
Main Characters of “Primeval”
The characters are meant to represent different groups at odds with each other during that specific point in history. Some have actual historic significance while other characters are fictional. However each are based in realistic elements from the time.
Real Characters and Inspirations
Jim Bridger the pioneer who owns Fort Bridger is played by Shea Whigham and his interactions with his character play a large part in the show's conflicts. Brigham Young (portrayed by Kim Coates), leader of the Mormon Church at the time, commands the Nauvoo Legion a core dynamic throughout the series. As for a female lead, Irene Bedard takes on the fictional character of Winter Bird and serves as inspiration from a historical leader known to live an alternative lifestyle from that day in time, and her storyline as an influential figure becomes more notable.
Fictional Characters
The central family with members Sara Rowell (played by Betty Gilpin) along with her son, Devin Rowell (Preston Mota). As well as Isaac Reed (Taylor Kitsch) and Two Moons (Shawnee Pourier). Each provide a view through the journey to which many people were traveling throughout the area at the time with common goals. Abish is another fictional character her experiences are based on true events which include women who were abducted at that time.
Depiction of Real Life Events
“American Primeval” uses accurate settings based on research and many important events that happened. They recreate Fort Bridger and The Mountain Meadow Massacre to provide an immersive experience that combines history with human struggles.
The Mountain Meadows Massacre
The first episode brings a depiction of The Mountain Meadows Massacre by Mormons disguised as Native Americans attacking travelers as the event is shown through Sara’s point of view. This violent clash was the main catalyst which drove all storylines and sets off a long journey of new beginnings in tragedy and turmoil.
Fort Bridger’s History
As an important historical space the team used an amazing set design to re create Fort Bridger which served as an important trading location in 1850s. This was also the location where a standoff took place during a shift of powers among different communities and also sets the events to follow with conflicts and strategy.
Visual Elements and Authenticity
The production teams all collaborated to produce high level of visuals throughout this series from construction to costumes, consulting with experts to portray all aspects of this historical depiction correctly. Using historical documents and research from first hand resources shows that accuracy was essential in production.
Setting and Landscape
The location also provides a level of truth with the harshness of that area showcased throughout all elements. It’s a large contrast from present day locations and adds the element of fear as they traveled through such wild, dangerous lands. The use of weather patterns such as winter and cold added an intensity as it added even more of a struggle to the character's stories.
Themes Within “Primeval”
The show does not highlight good and evil and takes an approach at showing people’s motivation and personal challenges while trying to live. Some stories show unique perspectives by people all striving to survive which highlight their own unique struggles in this setting.
Violence and Survival
With violence being prominent it allows themes to be touched on including desperation, loss, hope and betrayal as the story line develops. Each character must adapt and make decisions to stay alive and reach a goal of better futures which sometimes goes away from an idea of moral standing which further challenges every character.
Primeval’s Influence on other Media
This series is said to be comparable to elements found in a very popular game “ Red Dead Redemption .” The comparison to both the character development and landscape with similarities from various story elements make "Primeval" an interesting point of reference.
Character Parallels
Similar characters such as Arthur Morgan and Issac share personality styles, a need for protection and similar tragic pasts that create a bond among the viewers with similar views. The visual details in the series are so similar that this was noticed amongst the general viewing audience. This connection is one way people make sense of a new piece of entertainment by referencing it with similar media.
Key Takeaways
- "American Primeval" provides a new take to stories that have occurred in the Western United States in 1850’s Utah.
- The plot has different timelines as it portrays several historical perspectives by portraying many real life people within a fiction setting.
- Historical significance to events like the Mountain Meadows Massacre and Fort Bridger are accurately displayed along with a deep level of care.
- There is an expansion of character development along with visually detailed backgrounds to showcase all perspectives of the world around each main character.
- The series examines themes of identity, ethics and morality in dire situations showcasing many levels of conflicts in all perspectives.