“American Primeval,” a Netflix limited series directed by Pete Berg, delves into the brutal and violent realities of 1857 America. The six-episode drama, filmed over a grueling 13-month period in the New Mexico mountains, depicts the turbulent clash between Indigenous peoples, Mormons, and pioneers vying for control of the land. Berg, who also executive produced and made a cameo appearance, described the 135-day shoot as the “hardest thing” he’s ever filmed, citing extreme weather conditions and multiple Hollywood strike shutdowns as significant obstacles. The constant outdoor filming, coupled with the unpredictable nature of the elements, created a feral, almost primal atmosphere amongst the cast and crew, pushing them to their physical and mental limits. The strike-related delays also presented unique challenges, including accommodating the growth spurts of younger actors and even the pregnancy of Betty Gilpin, who plays a central role. A particularly arduous stretch of filming took place at high altitude on a ski mountain near the Los Alamos Laboratory, the birthplace of the atomic bomb. Freezing temperatures, heavy winds, and ice made conditions treacherous, pushing the cast and crew to their absolute limits. Berg expressed immense gratitude for their resilience and unwavering commitment during this challenging period.
Taylor Kitsch, reunited with Berg after their collaboration on “Painkiller,” portrays Isaac, a mysterious figure guiding Sara (Betty Gilpin) and her son to safety. Kitsch confirmed the difficulties of the shoot, recounting a significant injury where he broke his foot and had a bone removed from his big toe after being tackled by a much larger stuntman. Despite this setback, Kitsch continued filming 70% of the series in a boot, embracing the discomfort and challenges as part of the experience. He emphasized his desire to push boundaries and avoid playing the same character repeatedly, highlighting the shoot as an opportunity for growth and exploration. Kitsch, a Montana resident, also expressed his profound appreciation for the natural world and the opportunity to learn about Native American culture, an experience he described as “life-altering”. Gilpin echoed Kitsch’s sentiments, describing the exhilarating nature of the challenging shoot. She welcomed the departure from the controlled environment of soundstage filming, embracing the unpredictable elements as a catalyst for heightened emotional stakes and a deeper connection to her character.
The unpredictable weather, remote location, and sheer scale of the production, involving hundreds of cast and crew, horses, and wagons, presented logistical nightmares. Executive producer Eric Newman, who also worked on “Painkiller,” likened the production to its own frontier story, a testament to the resilience and tenacity of the team. To ensure the authenticity of the series, Indigenous Cultural Consultant Julie O’Keefe was instrumental in overseeing various aspects of the production. O’Keefe faced two primary challenges: accurately representing the various Indigenous languages spoken in the series and ensuring the historical accuracy of every item on set. The series incorporated approximately 3,700 words across three different tribal languages – Southern Paiute, Shoshone, and Ute – some of which lacked a recorded alphabet or formal written structure. O’Keefe collaborated with linguists who transcribed the dialogue, contributing to the preservation and revitalization of these languages. The dedication to authenticity extended to the meticulous creation of props and set pieces, with 3,500 items crafted by Native American artisans.
The detailed work of O’Keefe and her team extended to the creation of historically accurate teepees. Among these was a rare and expensive buffalo hide teepee, constructed using traditional methods, including brain tanning the hides. This labor-intensive process required 32 to 37 hides for a single 22-foot teepee. The production also commissioned two elk hide teepees and nearly 700 pairs of moccasins. This commitment to authenticity not only enriched the visual narrative but also provided employment opportunities for Indigenous communities, fostering a sense of pride and ownership in the project. This involvement extended beyond the creation of physical objects, as community members contributed their knowledge and expertise to ensure the accurate portrayal of their culture and history. The collaborative spirit fostered a deep sense of respect and understanding between the production team and the Indigenous communities involved.
The commitment to cultural authenticity also impacted the creative process, with daily script changes requiring the linguists to adapt and translate new dialogue. This dynamic environment, while challenging, ultimately enriched the narrative and ensured a respectful representation of Indigenous languages. O’Keefe emphasized the pride the artisans took in their work, often signing their creations. This meticulous attention to detail reflects the overall commitment to authenticity and the desire to honor the history and cultures being represented. The dedication to accuracy extends to the smallest details, emphasizing the significance of every element in contributing to the overall narrative. The production’s commitment to authenticity created a unique and immersive experience, blurring the lines between historical drama and lived reality.
“American Primeval,” with its challenging production and dedication to authenticity, promises a visceral and unflinching portrayal of a pivotal moment in American history. The series explores the complex dynamics between different cultures vying for survival and dominance in a harsh and unforgiving landscape. The series is further enriched by the contributions of writer/creator/executive producer Mark L. Smith and executive producer Alex Gayner. The diverse cast, including Dane DeHaan, Saura Lightfoot-Leon, Derek Hinkey, Joe Tippett, Jai Courtney, Preston Mota, Shawnee Pourier, and Shea Whigham, adds depth and nuance to the story, bringing to life the struggles and triumphs of individuals caught in the crosscurrents of history. “American Primeval” is not just a historical drama; it’s a testament to the human spirit, the resilience of cultures, and the enduring power of storytelling.
