New Netflix Western Series Exposes Harsh Realities Similar to Taylor Sheridan’s Yellowstone

In January, Netflix unveiled an exciting new addition to the Western genre with American Primeval, a series that is quickly capturing audience interest. This surge in popularity not only highlights the show’s appeal but also raises questions about the viability of Taylor Sheridan’s acclaimed Yellowstone franchise. For decades, the Western genre has been a cornerstone of American storytelling, from the classic films featuring John Wayne to more contemporary works like No Country for Old Men and Bone Tomahawk. Since its debut in 2018, Yellowstone has been heralded for its neo-Western narrative, chronicling the trials of the Dutton family as they vie for control of their expansive Wyoming ranch. However, it’s important to note that Yellowstone may not epitomize the authentic Western experience.

In contrast, Netflix’s American Primeval emerges as a compelling story of a mother and son escaping their troubled past in Utah, navigating the complexities of a brewing conflict between Mormon settlers and the Wild West. Created by Mark L. Smith, known for his work on films like The Revenant and Twisters, this series has garnered a respectable 63% rating on Rotten Tomatoes and has made its mark as one of Netflix’s top series for the week. While this recognition is commendable for American Primeval, it also underscores what is lacking in many modern interpretations of the Western genre.

Yellowstone: A Soap Opera Disguised as a Western

Identifying Yellowstone’s Shortcomings

After viewing American Primeval, it’s clear that Yellowstone and its subsequent spin-offs diverge significantly from genuine Westerns. In reality, they resemble more of a soap opera than a classic Western. Although the show features the picturesque backdrop of the American West and incorporates traditional cowboy themes, its primary focus lies in the intricate family politics and dynamics of the Dutton clan rather than the archetypes of rugged individualism typical of Westerns.

Throughout its narrative, the character of John Dutton, played by the illustrious Kevin Costner, is positioned as the cornerstone of the series. Sheridan seems intent on making Dutton the centerpiece around which the story revolves. While he embodies the essence of the cowboy, many would argue that the supporting characters bring a more engaging and varied storytelling experience to the table. Consequently, Yellowstone often strays from the conventional Western narrative structure, opting instead for a character ensemble reminiscent of soap opera storytelling.

American Primeval: A Return to Authentic Western Roots

The Impact of Historical Context on Modern Westerns

American Primeval stands out as a more authentic representation of the Western genre compared to Yellowstone. With its grit, historical context, and visceral storytelling, the new series embodies all the classic elements that one expects from a traditional Western narrative. It features clear delineations between heroes and villains, thrilling shootouts, and a palpable atmosphere of danger and survival. While American Primeval also boasts a rich ensemble cast, its characters feel distinctly rooted in the historical and cultural realities of the era.

The challenges faced by the characters in American Primeval are steeped in the brutal realities of the 1850s Wild West, a stark contrast to the more modern dilemmas experienced by the Dutton family. Despite having thematic overlaps, Yellowstone struggles to evoke the same sense of historical authenticity that precedes it, primarily due to its contemporary setting.

Challenges of Approaching the Western Genre for Today’s Viewers

The Modern Interpretation of Western Ideals

American soldiers on horseback — Image via Netflix

It’s important to recognize that the shortcomings of Yellowstone aren’t solely indicative of the show’s flaws. The Western genre faces profound challenges in appealing to modern audiences. Although neo-Westerns can contain many classic features, they often lack the old-school charm and authenticity associated with traditional Westerns. The Wild West era was characterized by its brutal realities and fierce territorial disputes, elements that do not readily translate to contemporary narratives. The Dutton family’s struggles lack the raw survival instinct that defined the lives of true cowboys from that era.

This illustrates why neo-Westerns like Yellowstone may never resonate as true Westerns. Despite efforts to embody the cowboy archetype in characters such as John Dutton and Rip Wheeler, they remain shielded from the genuine tribulations faced by individuals during the historical Wild West period. Consequently, Yellowstone cannot authentically recreate the level of tension and violence that defines series like American Primeval.

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