I can’t get enough of a good western thriller, so I’m beyond excited that Netflix is bringing us a new show in this relentless, gritty genre. There’s something so gripping about the dangerous landscapes, the raw emotional stakes of protecting your family, and the constant fight for survival. It’s this kind of storytelling that has me hooked from the start.
Netflix just dropped the first trailer for “American Primeval”, their upcoming western thriller set to premiere in January 2025. Honestly, it only took ten seconds of the trailer for me to add it to my must-watch list for next year.
The show promises a visceral dive into life on the untamed frontier, exploring humanity’s darker side in the wilderness. With an impressive cast and what looks to be a story packed with tension and grit, I already know I’ll be binge-watching this in one weekend.
So, here’s everything we know so far about Netflix’s next big thriller, “American Primeval”, and when you can stream it…
What is ‘American Primeval’ about?
The year is 1857, a time when chaos reigns, and suffering is a constant companion. Hatred and fear are spreading like wildfire, pushing innocence and peace to the brink of extinction. Compassion is a rare virtue, grace even rarer, and nowhere in these untamed lands can true safety be found.
“American Primeval” dives deep into this turbulent era, weaving a fictional tale that explores the violent clashes of culture, faith and community as individuals battle for dominance in a harsh, unforgiving world. Through a gripping ensemble cast, the show examines the heavy price of venturing into a lawless frontier where sacrifice is inevitable, and survival comes at a steep cost.
What else do we know about ‘American Primeval’?
Taylor Kitsch leads the charge in this gritty six-episode show, bringing the adventurous and untamed spirit of the American West to life. Some of the other cast includes Betty Gilpin, Kim Coates, Jai Courtney, Kyle Bradley Davis, Dane DeHaan and Shea Whigham.
“American Primeval” marks Peter Berg’s first project under his first-look deal with Netflix. The series is penned by Mark L. Smith and helmed by showrunner and executive producer Eric Newman. This is also the second time Berg, Newman, and Kitsch have teamed up, following their collaboration on the 2023 limited series “Painkiller”.
Director and executive producer Pete Berg told Netflix: “We are very appreciative that Netflix is trusting us to take a big swing with American Primeval. 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.”
Netflix actually has an official synopsis too: “This is America…1857. Up is down, pain is everywhere, innocence and tranquility are losing the battle to hatred and fear. Peace is the shrinking minority, and very few possess grace — even fewer know compassion. There is no safe haven in these brutal lands, and only one goal matters: survival.”
‘American Primeval’ looks like the perfect binge-watch
If the trailer is anything to go by, “American Primeval” has all the makings of a binge-worthy hit. The untamed American frontier and a narrative dripping with grit and intensity, it seems like the show promises to deliver a thrilling ride from start to finish. The limited series format also works in its favor, ensuring a tight, focused story that doesn’t overstay its welcome.
Also good news: “American Primeval” will land on Netflix on January 9, 2025, with all six episodes releasing at once. This means we don’t have long to wait. Netflix has proven its ability to craft compelling original series, and this western thriller looks set to continue that trend.
Need something to watch in the meantime? Check out this new action-thriller show on Netflix starring Kiera Knightley. Netflix also has a new No.1 show that has viewers divided.
Stream "American Primeval" on Netflix starting January 9.
