UPDATE: Netflix’s new Western series, The Abandons, has rapidly climbed into the top three of the streaming platform, captivating audiences just one week after its release. This bloody, female-led epic features acclaimed stars Lena Headey and Gillian Anderson, who are driving a narrative that blends survival and revenge in the Wild West.
Set in the tumultuous backdrop of Washington Territory in 1854, the series follows Headey as Fiona Nolan, a frontier survivor turned matriarch. She leads a group of orphaned children through harsh landscapes, while Anderson portrays a cold mining magnate determined to claim the same land and its hidden treasures. The show presents a gripping conflict that escalates into a territorial war, showcasing the brutal realities of survival in the 19th century.
Despite its promising premise and star-studded cast, early reviews suggest that The Abandons struggles to maintain narrative momentum. Critics have described it as “plodding,” noting that the show’s divergent episode lengths—ranging from 35 to nearly 60 minutes—detract from character development and storytelling consistency.
“The Netflix Western series can’t sustain any significant narrative momentum, despite the two acting powerhouses,”
stated Carly Lane from Collider. She highlighted the impact of original director Kurt Sutter‘s exit on the final product, suggesting that the series could have benefitted from a more cohesive vision.
As of now, The Abandons is available for streaming on Netflix, and it is generating buzz among audiences who are eager to see if it can sustain its popularity in the coming weeks. With its unique take on the Western genre, this series could redefine how stories of survival and resilience are told, especially through a female lens.
Fans and viewers are encouraged to tune in and form their own opinions as the series continues to unfold. In a media landscape where strong female leads are still a rarity, The Abandons represents a significant shift worth watching.
Stay tuned for more updates on this trending series and other streaming hits on Netflix.
