How did people react to a period full of brutality and hate? “American Primeval” presents an unflinching look at the American West circa 1857. The Netflix limited series opts for a gritty tone — highlighting the excessive violence that shaped this westward expansion. Its characters speak to the numerous groups who would find themselves in search of new life, and a community fighting for their existence. 
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The project hails from director Peter Berg and screenwriter Mark L. Smith. Berg, who helmed “Friday Night Lights” and “Lone Survivor,” called the series “a big swing” during the announcement. “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,” he added. 
‘Primeval’ relies on a large cast to tell this complicated story. Taylor Kitsch, Betty Gilpin, Dane DeHaan, Saura Lightfoot-Leon, Derek Hinkey, Joe Tippett, Jai Courtney, Preston Mota, Shawnee Pourier, and Shea Whigham star. Guest stars include Kim Coates, Lucas Neff, Kyle Davis, Tokala Black Elk, Nick Hargrove, Irene Bedard, Nanabah Grace, Alex Breaux, Dominic Bogart, Alex Fine, Kip Weeks, and Jeremiah Bitsui.
The limited series’ official synopsis:
This is America…1857. Up is down, pain is everywhere, and 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 is a fictionalized dramatization and examination of the violent collision of culture, religion, and community as men and women fight and die to keep or control this land.
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The American West is full of stories in “American Primeval.” All episodes premiere January 9 on Netflix. Watch the new trailer below.