Genndy Tartakovsky is easily one of the most underappreciated artists out there. His unique art style and action-heavy storytelling is responsible for the legendary Samurai Jack which premiered on Cartoon Network in August of 2001. Unfortunately, action cartoons have never been hugely successful, which lead to the cancellation of both Samurai Jack and Genndy’s other series Sym-Bionic Titan released in 2010. Both shows are absolutely fantastic and I would highly recommend them to anyone regardless of age.

Genndy’s newest series, PRIMAL is an adult animated series that aired on adult swim and is also available to watch on HBO Max. The show is two seasons in length with each season containing a total of 10 episodes. The show first premiered in 2019 and concluded this year.

The story of PRIMAL is steeped in violence and focuses around depicting the brutal savagery of nature. Our central character is a Neanderthal known simply as Spear. Shortly after tragedy strikes his home, winds up with a Dinosaur companion named Fang. What follows is simply a series of shorts that illustrate their struggle to survive in an ancient world fraught with danger around every corner.

There is only a single word of spoken dialogue throughout the entirety of the first season. However, dialogue isn’t necessary, as so much is conveyed through actions, grunts, roars, and music. Season 2 contains more dialogue, but most of it isn’t in English and the story favors utilizing as little as possible. This is an absolutely phenomenal creative decision. Not only does it perfectly fit the tone but it also gives this project a unique identity.

I also love the worldbuilding accomplished throughout the series. Though there is no thought given to historical accuracy, the world provides such a fun blending of tropes that you can’t help but smile. Dinosaurs, Mammoths, Giant Insects, and Vikings riding bears all coexist perfectly somehow. Nothing is ever off limits here and it helps ensure that each new threat remains both interesting and challenging for our heroes.

Though the action is certainly the core focus, there is also a fair amount of horror elements present. The second half of season 1 in particular showcases some hugely unsettling body horror. The violence at times can also be equally horrific, but never without reason. Episodes comment on topics of genocide, slavery, vengeance, and self-defense, often skillfully illustrating the causes and motivations behind each. Our heroes are often morally culpable but still remain likable throughout the narrative and you always want them to come out on top.

If I had to give any complaint about the show it’s that the pacing can at times be a little too fast. However, for only 22-25 minute episodes this is an easy trap to fall into. The ending in particular suffers from this brevity and thus some of the final scenes are awkwardly executed.

Like with most of Genndy’s material, the animation is stunning throughout. In today’s world of digital animation, it is wonderful to see something that is still made the old fashion way. Some might criticize a few scenes that reuse multiple frames repeatedly. However, when this occurs it is always utilized to simply enhance individual fight beats or indicate the passage of time. It’s a clever way to save time without compromising the unique style of the show.

PRIMAL is yet another masterpiece from one of my favorite creators. The show is both an excellent exploration and deconstruction of violence. Though the series never shies away from the darker aspects of violent acts it also maintains an element of fun. Shots are artfully composed to provide the biggest spectacle and emphasize themes, while other sequences are just plain awesome and had me feeling like a kid smashing his action figures together. Give this a watch if you want something to give you a burst of adrenaline.

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PRIMAL

0.00

9.5

Score

9.5/10

Pros

• Exciting action
• Awesome world
• Great Music and Sound design
• Hand drawn animation

Cons

• Pacing can be too fast at times