As I delve into the captivating world of American Primeval, I am struck by the depth and authenticity that each character brings to their roles. Each actor seems to have breathed life into their characters, making them feel real and relatable. The experiences these actors bring to their performances are truly remarkable.
Starting in the upcoming year, Netflix’s “American Primeval” series takes a close look at life on the American Frontier during 1857. The story explores how a mix of cultures, consisting of Mormons, Native Americans, and mercenaries, struggle to live together amidst the ever-present dangers of war and mortality. Notably, this series is helmed by the accomplished director Peter Berg, whose previous works include “The Kingdom” and “Deepwater Horizon”, and boasts an impressive cast led by Taylor Kitsch.
In a recent chat, Game Rant spoke with director Peter Berg, Taylor Kitsch (Isaac), Betty Gilpin (Sara), Derek Hinkey (Red Feather), Saura Lightfoot-Leon (Abish), and Julie O’Keefe, who functioned as the Indigenous Consultant. They opened up about their time on the Netflix series, discussing some of the more challenging parts of production and the importance of cultural sensitivity. (This conversation has been condensed for clarity and conciseness.)
American Primeval’s Cast On Their Experiences On Set
Q: Taylor, what was your experience like as you entered a narrative taking place during such a significant and dramatic era?
Kitsch: In my opinion, when more responsibility is given, one should be more game for it. I found this fascinating. The Native American community taught me so much – from learning how to ride horses to uncovering historical events I was completely unaware of. Since I reside in Montana, my view overlooks the Bridger Mountains. Discovering about Bridger and the real people who influenced the West’s history was awe-inspiring. Shea Whigham did an outstanding job portraying that character! What a talented actor he is in this series!
Heading toward Santa Fe, I journeyed through the Shoshone Reservation and passed Fort Bridger. I even visited a burial site of some of these people in Wyoming – immersing myself in history that resonates deeply with the show. It was an inspiring experience, fueling my passion even more! Every step felt like embracing this duty and striving to claim it as much as possible.
A: Hey there! Could you tell me what impact working on a historical drama had on your perception of frontier life and the roles of women during that period, Betty?
In my own words: Gilpin conducted extensive study to understand what Sara’s life might have looked like during that particular timeframe. Unfortunately, many historical accounts often overlook or downplay women’s roles, portraying them more like subservient handmaids. This omission can be disheartening to fully grasp. Sara would likely have been forbidden from strolling alone on the streets. Reading a book might have been considered inappropriate, and her primary duties would involve being silent, allowing others to speak, or focusing on finding the right husband, having children, hosting tea parties, reading the Bible, and staring out the window, feeling melancholic.
In this harsh, survival-of-the-fittest world, it appears Sara may have been informed that this was her ultimate destiny. At first, she must have found it petrifying due to the absence of social etiquette or established rules. Yet, perhaps there was also a strange sense of liberation – realising that she could seize control of her own life, as survival matters more than adhering to trivial customs like proper posture. It seems Sara experienced a blend of fear and freedom in this world.
American Primeval Director Explains Show’s Concept
A: Could you tell me, Peter, what inspired you to develop a show centered around the American frontier, and what particular difficulties did you encounter when attempting to authentically portray that era on television?
In a casual conversation, Berg mentioned: Mark Smith (the scriptwriter) and I often discuss projects we’d like to collaborate on since we both admire each other’s work. One film that holds a special place for us is “Jeremiah Johnson,” featuring Robert Redford. This movie isn’t your typical Western; instead, it tells the story of survival, making it truly captivating.
Something that Mark and I were both talking about was the current state of the world and the amount of violence that we were seeing every day in the United States, Europe, Asia, South America, etc. We wanted to do something to sort of explore what it is that makes men want to be violent against each other, so often, in so many different ways, and it was sort of our desire to explore violence—the themes of violence—with our desire to do something in a period environment that led us to 1857, Southern Utah, and American Primeval.
Q: How did you balance historical accuracy with telling a compelling story?
Berg: Julie O’Keefe, who is incredibly gifted, provided valuable assistance. There were so many things I was unaware of, and I was fortunate to rely on an exceptional team of consultants. This team included Native American advisors, Mormon representatives, and military experts. We also had the Fort Bridger Museum’s curator, who was present daily, ensuring I grasped everything essential about living as a mountain man in Wyoming during 1857.
The exceptional consultants we brought on board were invaluable. They had no qualms about clarifying what was unclear to us, correcting us when we went astray, and ensuring our understanding was accurate. This approach mirrors my philosophy for most of my films: a commitment to authenticity and storytelling that rings true. Essentially, their role was crucial, beginning with thorough research and culminating in the hiring of gifted individuals who aren’t shy about speaking up and guiding us when needed.
Q: What would you say the hardest role to cast was, and why?
Interviewer: Could you share which role posed the greatest challenge during your direction?
Indigenous Consultant Julie O’Keefe on What She Hopes the Audience Takes Away
Question: Julie, what is it that you’d like people to gain a deeper understanding of regarding Native culture after they watch this program?
O’Keefe: Absolutely, it’s about preserving languages. There are 574 federally recognized tribes in the U.S., and each of us is committed to safeguarding our unique tongues. Why, without that language, who are we? Imagine waking up without a way to express yourself – who would you be then?
We have 3700 words within the script, and we have involved three different Native American tribes; Southern Paiute, Shoshone, and Ute. That’s really what I want people to sit down and think about, and the fact that we’re preserving that in today’s time. We’re not relics, we’re preserving this in today’s time.
How Derek Hinkey’s Native American Background Influenced His Role in American Primeval
A: Could you share how your personal cultural history shaped the way you depicted your character, and specifically, how it helped you convey Native American viewpoints in the narrative?
Hinkey: I believe what happened was honesty. You see, I was raised on a reservation, so it’s like an ingrained memory, authenticity, but also drawing upon the ability and art of conveying that message effectively to others.
Question: In what way does the show explore the ideas of resilience and endurance from an indigenous standpoint, and what messages did you aim to communicate through your acting?
Growing up, I was taught to imagine that I have an internal bottle where I store any negative feelings or experiences. Instead of letting them consume me, I transform those negativities into positive energy and use it to make a difference in the world. In essence, this approach serves as my personal coping mechanism, or healing method.
Q: Which part of the role would you say felt closest to you personally, and why?
Hinkey: Doing what I thought was right to protect my people and the community.
A: Hey there! I’d be happy to discuss my process. In this particular role, I had to consider the characteristics of the character within the context of the given time period. The most challenging part was undeniably capturing the nuances and complexities of that era accurately while making the character relatable and engaging for modern audiences.
Lightfoot-Leon: The hardest part was donning authentic period attire; I wore a corset the entire time. This style is well-known among Mormons, but portraying my character’s struggles, including life-or-death situations, while wearing such restrictive clothing made it challenging – even breathing was difficult! Once I removed that corset, I realized how effortlessly I’ve taken breathing for granted. They certainly had to grapple with a whole different set of challenges in the past.
How American Primeval Cast Ensured Historical Authenticity
A: What was it like for you to strike a balance between maintaining historical accuracy and crafting the narrative, and how did you manage to achieve that balance effectively?
Lightfoot-Leon: It was subtle, yet as an actor, I am meticulous about accuracy. Personally, I strive for precision too. I sensed a blend of academic and personal exploration was necessary. What I cherish most is the personal investigation – delving into books, podcasts, attending Mormon church services, meeting people, and eventually immersing myself in Santa Fe’s rich talent pool, standing on sacred ground, listening to stories, sharing laughter – these moments are what make my job so rewarding. This is why I continue with my work.
Q: What’s the one thing that you’ll take away from the experience?
For the first time ever, I hopped onto a majestic steed, and it was an unforgettable experience! I can’t help but yearn for it now, as opportunities to do so are scarce in bustling London. It truly is a unique pleasure that I cherish deeply.
[END]
American Primeval streams on Netflix on January 9, 2025.
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2024-12-07 14:24