The film was shot entirely in the rugged landscapes of New Mexico, conveying the pristine essence of the American frontier in the mid-19th century. This historical drama skillfully intertwines tense battle scenes with poignant storytelling, exploring the brutal conflicts that defined that era. It delves into the heavy clashes between the U.S. Army, Mormon militia, various Native American tribes, and brave pioneers trying to build a new life in the merciless wilderness. Starring Taylor Kitsch as Isaac and Betty Gilpin as Sara Rowell, the series tells of their arduous journey across the vast and dangerous territory of Utah, striving to reach a fictional settlement known as Crook Springs. The script was written by Mark L. Smith, known for his work on the film «The Revenant», ensuring a gritty and authentic portrayal of survival and conflict.

Filming Locations:

Fort Bridger Set

In the Movie

Scene where the meticulously constructed Fort Bridger set served as the central trading post, realistically spanning eight city blocks and showcasing detailed structures such as a pharmacy, tannery, and various goods, accurately recreating the bustling frontier outpost of 1857.

In Reality

The scene was filmed on a specially built set along the Rio Grande near Cochiti Pueblo, designed to authentically reproduce the historic Fort Bridger. The filmmakers constructed this detailed, temporary fort, which was critical for creating a realistic depiction of the frontier trading post, providing a concrete backdrop for the series' narrative.

Santa Clara Pueblo

In the Movie

Scene where additional episodes for the series were filmed, against the backdrop of the breathtaking natural beauty of the Rio Grande Valley and surrounding landscapes, utilizing the unique and authentic environment of the pueblo.

In Reality

The scene was filmed on the lands of this Native American pueblo, which provided an authentic and naturally scenic backdrop for various episodes. Its rich cultural heritage and pristine natural surroundings, including the dramatic landscapes of the Rio Grande Valley, offered a unique and historically significant filming location.

Teton Range

In the Movie

Scene where the majestic, sharp mountain peaks, presumably the Teton Range, were digitally integrated into the background of many shots, providing a visually stunning and dramatic natural backdrop for the expansive frontier landscapes.

In Reality

The scene was filmed or rather conceived, with this iconic mountain range serving as visual inspiration for the computer graphics used in the background. Known for its dramatic peaks and pristine wilderness, the range offers an unparalleled sense of scale and grandeur, perfectly complementing the series' rugged frontier setting.

San Juan Mountains

In the Movie

Scene where alternative interpretations suggest that the towering peaks created with computer graphics in the background could be the San Juan Mountains, particularly with Mount Sneffels at the center, offering another magnificent and rugged mountain landscape for the series.

In Reality

The scene was filmed or digitally enhanced using this stunning mountain range as a potential source for background visual effects, offering a distinctly rugged and breathtaking mountain environment. The San Juan Mountains, with prominent peaks like Mount Sneffels, provide a powerful and authentic natural aesthetic that complements the series' setting.