Netflix's new western thriller is already one of my favorite shows of 2025 - and you can stream it now

Netflix is off to a great start in 2025 with the release of the highly anticipated western thriller American Primeval and it’s definitely a series you won’t want to miss. My excitement for this show started back in November when I first heard about it, and back then I said it had the potential to be a future #1. Now that it’s streaming, I stand by that belief because it has all the right ingredients to take the top spot.

I had the opportunity to see American Primeval early on and let me tell you, it did not disappoint. This new Netflix show has everything you’d expect from a thriller: intense action, emotional performances from a talented cast, and a captivating plot that’ll make you want to click “next episode.” It’s absolutely brutal (like seriously brutal), so I wouldn’t recommend watching this show while eating. I can confidently say that American Primeval is one of Netflix’s best offerings to date.

So if you’re looking for something exciting and intense to watch this week, I highly recommend adding it to your watchlist. This is why you need to stream “American Primeval” now as it is available on one of the best streaming services.

What is “American Primeval” about?

American prehistoric times | Official Trailer | Netflix-YouTube

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Set in 1857, a time of widespread chaos and unrelenting suffering, American Primeval follows Sara (Betty Gilpin) and her young son Devin (Preston Mota) on a dangerous journey across the border to reunite with her father . Their path is fraught with danger, but a gruff and lonely man named Isaac (Taylor Kitsch) steps in as a guide and eventually forms an unexpected emotional bond with the two.

As her journey unfolds, Sara’s secret past is revealed, which has put a bounty on her head. Along with Isaac, Devin, and a mute girl named Two Moons (Shawnee Pourier) who joins their trek, they must evade ruthless bounty hunters and other brutal characters in this unforgiving world.

American Primeval spins a fictional tale that explores the violent clashes between culture, faith and community as individuals fight for control in a world where survival is never guaranteed.

“American Primeval” is a mildly addictive thriller

Taylor Kitsch as Isaac in

(Image credit: Justin Lubin / Netflix)

One thing I love about American Primeval is how easy it is to binge for a night. With only six episodes in this limited series, it’s the perfect length – short and full of action and drama. And there are many reasons why I could easily watch this western thriller again.

The series has characters that you actually care about (at least some). The core of the story lies in the core group, which includes Sara, Isaac, Devin and Two Moons. Their emotional connection stands out, which is a nice contrast to the brutal scenes you’ll witness throughout. Isaac is particularly interesting. He starts off as this gruff, outspoken character, hardened by his traumatic past and the brutal loss of his family. But over time he develops into someone capable of genuine care and affection, especially towards Sara and her son.

(Left to right) Betty Gilpin as Sara Rowell, Preston Mota as Devin Rowell and Shawnee Pourier as Two Moons in

(Image credit: Justin Lubin / Netflix)

Emotional stories like this make me enjoy a show even more. One can’t help but feel sorry for Sara, a loving mother who does everything she can to protect her son and keep him safe on the journey across the border. And unfortunately she goes through a lot within six episodes.

Of course there has to be a balance, and that means that there are characters throughout the series that I absolutely despised. Honestly, I clicked on “next episode” more than once just to see if they finally got what they deserved. These include disillusioned members of the US Army, Mormon Church figures and ruthless trappers who are not afraid to kill.

(Left to right) Dane DeHaan as Jacob Pratt and Saura Lightfoot Leon as Abish in

(Image credit: Matt Kennedy / Netflix)

I have to give credit to another outstanding performance in American Primeval. Dane DeHaan takes on the role of Jacob Pratt, a devout Mormon who braves the treacherous wilderness in search of a loved one. Jacob leads a small group of other Mormons, including his new wife Abish (Saura Lightfoot-Leon), as they escape the brutal persecution they endured in the East. DeHaan delivers an intense and unpredictable performance that makes you empathize with Jacob’s plight while leaving you uneasy about how far his despair could push him.

If you’re planning on watching this western thriller, remember that it’s not absolute perfect. At times the blood feels a little too gruesome (I had to look away in shock a few times). And there’s a last-minute romance that feels out of place and not entirely necessary, making the ending feel a bit strange. But I think it’s still worth a look if you need something compact and effective.

Although the series has a short runtime, some episodes (especially the first one, which takes time to introduce the characters and communities) might seem slower than the others. I usually prefer fast-paced television considering I have a short attention span, but American Primeval delivered enough excitement and authentic characters to keep me watching.

American Primeval is a must-watch for 2025. The graphics are impressive, the characters are interesting to watch, and the story is captivating enough to keep you hooked. However, be prepared for some intense, gory scenes that may have you looking away from the screen. However, it is this raw brutality that brings to life the grim reality of the American West.

Stream “American Primeval” on Netflix now

Preston Mota, Taylor Kitsch and Betty Gilpin

(Image credit: Netflix)

American Primeval is the must-watch of the week if you love an unflinching thriller. Set against the backdrop of the untamed American frontier, the dark, intense narrative will captivate you from start to finish. The limited series format also benefits it and ensures a dense, focused story that doesn’t fall short even when the action slows down a bit.

Now that it’s streaming on Netflix, I’m already tempted to watch it again, this time knowing every twist. Without giving anything away, I’ll just say this: expect plenty of ruthless kills, heartwarming moments, and characters that will stir your emotions (whether they warm your heart or make your blood boil). It’s everything you’d expect from a gripping thriller set in such a cruel landscape.

If you’re looking for more series in this genre, you can now stream some of the best westerns on Netflix. You can also check out our guide to the best western movies currently available on Prime Video.

Otherwise, stream all six episodes of “American Primeval” on Netflix Now.

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Netflix’s new western thriller is already one of my favorite shows of 2025 – and you can stream it now

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