**The Brutal West: A Glimpse into the Darker Side of American History**
Hollywood’s fascination with stories of the Wild West has reached its peak in the middle of the last century, when the vast and majestic land was “tamed” by brave pioneers. However, it continues to bother us. The foundation of American mythology, one of the cornerstones of our cultural identity. Today, of course, these romantic visions of life on the trail are challenged by more realistic depictions of violence, disease, exploitation, and genocide. Netflix’s miniseries, “American Original,” takes place in a particularly bloody time and place in Western colonial history, and there’s nothing pretty or mediocre about it. Quite the opposite – it’s hard to imagine the real thing being uglier than this. Its cruelty transcends realism or even nihilism and enters the realm of deliberately narrative cruelty. While some of the greatest art is built around death and despair, “American Original” is not clever enough to make up for the pain of watching it.
The six-episode series takes place in 1857, part of the Utah Territory (now Wyoming). During this period, U.S. claims to the land were challenged not only by the indigenous Shoshone, Ute, and Paiute peoples, but also by Brigham Young, the appointed governor of Utah and current president of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. As the opening title explains, countless innocent men, women, and children are caught in the crossfire. This ensemble drama is a tapestry of intertwined tragedies in which the characters are tempered by these harsh conditions until they find the strength to kill before they are killed. This isn’t the only lesson to be learned, but it’s ultimately the only important one, as the story punishes nearly every act of kindness or mercy. Although it condemns cycles of violence, “American Original” argues that the clearest lesson is not that innocent people die in conflicts; let you be killed. That is, unless you kill it first.
The story is set against the backdrop of the mighty snow-capped mountains, where the rugged terrain and harsh weather conditions mirror the brutal and unforgiving environment that our characters find themselves in. We follow Isaac, a grizzled mountain man played by Taylor Kitsch, who has been through his own inner ordeal before the series even begins. Isaac reluctantly takes on the responsibility of caring for Sarah Rowell, a young woman with her teenage son Devon (Preston Moore) and her young son Tower, a woman traveling west from Philadelphia. For all his acting chops, Isaac is a gritty action protagonist, a skilled killer and survivor who pushes people away because he can’t take any more losses. Sarah isn’t exactly a damsel in distress, however. She is wanted for murder, a purveyor of righteous violence, which in this story is the only way anyone can prove they deserve to live. Young Shuangyue, played by Shawnee Prior, is on the run after killing her sexually abused father.
As they journey through the snowy mountains, tensions rise around the small town of Fort Bridger, founded by a real historical folk hero, Jim Bridger (Shea Wiggum). This is where benevolent U.S. Army officer Edmonds Derringer (Lucas Neff) is stationed, tasked with defending the territory against displaced indigenous people and Brigham Young, the ever-expanding religious territory. Fort Bridger is a stop on the trail to Young’s Promised Zion, where Abish Pratt (Shora Lightfoot-Lyon) and her husband Jacob (Dane DeHaan) travel down the road, and Jacob may have loved her, but never really asked if this was what she wanted. Nearby, Shoshone leader Winter Byrd (Irene Bedard) is trying to keep her people away from the fighting, while her son Red Feather (Derek Hinckley) refuses to surrender to the men who murdered him. Some civilized people surrendered. The place is like a powder keg, the only question is which side will light the fuse.
**Frequently Asked Questions**
Q: What is the main plot of “American Original”?
A: The series takes place in 1857, part of the Utah Territory (now Wyoming), and is set against the backdrop of the violent and unforgiving environment faced by the characters.
Q: What is the main theme of the series?
A: The series explores the brutal and unforgiving environment faced by its characters, and the idea that the only way to survive is to be violent and ruthless.
Q: Who are the main characters in the series?
A: The main characters include Isaac, a grizzled mountain man played by Taylor Kitsch; Sarah Rowell, a young woman with her teenage son Devon and her young son Tower; and Young Shuangyue, a woman on the run after killing her sexually abused father.
Q: What is the tone of the series?
A: The series is known for its brutal and unforgiving environment, and is not afraid to depict violence, disease, exploitation, and genocide.
**Conclusion**
“American Original” is a dark and unforgiving series that delves into the brutal and violent world of the Wild West. With its gritty action, harsh conditions, and characters that are pushed to the limit, it’s a series that is not for the faint of heart. While it may not be the most original story, it’s a well-crafted tale that is sure to leave viewers on the edge of their seats. So, if you’re a fan of action-packed drama, “American Original” may be the perfect series for you.The Brutal, Bleak Western Drama is Exhaling: A Review of “American Original”
The Wild West was a violent and brutal time in American history, marked by conflicts between Native American tribes and early American settlers. The new Netflix series, “American Original,” brings this period to life in a way that is both unflinching and unapologetic. The show tells the story of a group of pioneers who are trying to survive in a harsh and unforgiving environment, where death can come at any moment.
The show’s first episode sets the tone for the rest of the series, with a brutal and graphic opening sequence that shows the consequences of a violent confrontation between the pioneers and a group of Native American warriors. The scene is disturbing and unflinchingly honest, and it immediately makes it clear that this is not a show for the faint of heart.
The show’s use of violence is not gratuitous, but it is bold and unapologetic. The scenes of bloodshed and violence are often graphic and intense, and they are meant to be a reflection of the brutal reality of the time period. The show’s creators are not sugarcoating the violence, and they are not shying away from the harsh realities of the frontier.
The show’s characters are also well-developed and complex, with flaws and weaknesses that make them relatable and human. The leader of the group, a man named Arthur, is a complex and conflicted character who is driven by a desire to protect his family and friends. He is a true leader, willing to make tough decisions and face danger head-on, but he is also haunted by his past and struggling with his own demons.
The show’s supporting characters are also well-designed, with their own strengths and weaknesses. There is a young boy who is learning to grow up in a harsh and unforgiving world, and a veteran scout who is haunted by his past. Each character is fully developed and contributing to the story, making it easy to become invested in their journey.
The show’s setting is also well-researched, with attention to historical detail that is impressive. The show’s creators have clearly done their homework, and it shows in the way they capture the look and feel of the 19th century. The show’s cinematography is also impressive, with a blend of period-perfect sets and slick special effects that bring the world to life.
Overall, “American Original” is a powerful and unflinching look at a violent and brutal time in American history. The show’s use of violence is bold and unapologetic, and its characters are well-developed and complex. The show’s setting is also well-researched, with attention to historical detail that is impressive. If you’re looking for a show that is unafraid to tackle tough topics and unafraid to be different, then “American Original” is definitely worth checking out.
FAQ:
Q: What is the show “American Original” about?
A: The show is a historical drama that follows a group of pioneers as they try to survive in a harsh and unforgiving environment during the 19th century.
Q: Is the show graphic and violent?
A: Yes, the show is known for its graphic and unflinching depictions of violence and bloodshed, which are meant to reflect the brutal reality of the time period.
Q: Are the characters well-developed and complex?
A: Yes, the show’s characters are well-developed and complex, with flaws and weaknesses that make them relatable and human.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, “American Original” is a powerful and unflinching look at a violent and brutal time in American history. The show’s use of violence is bold and unapologetic, and its characters are well-developed and complex. The show’s setting is also well-researched, with attention to historical detail that is impressive. If you’re looking for a show that is unafraid to tackle tough topics and unafraid to be different, then “American Original” is definitely worth checking out.
