Genndy Tartakovksy's Primal

Genndy Tartakovsky's Primal is a fiercely original animated series that was first broadcast in 2019. The series is both written and directed by Genndy Tartakovsky, the mastermind behind several renowned animated series such as Dexter's Laboratory, Samurai Jack, and Star Wars: Clone Wars. His reputation as an animator who brilliantly blends the bounds of storytelling, dramatic visuals, and emotional depth makes Primal a standout addition to his body of work.

Set in a harsh, fantasized prehistoric world, Primal follows the tale of two unlikely allies - a caveman and a dinosaur. The caveman, named Spear and the dinosaur named Fang, form a bond fueled by survival instinct against a common adversary - the brutal, untamed world they inhabit. Despite the absence of verbal communication, the duo communicates through the raw, primal, and universal emotions that are superbly crafted throughout each scene.

The series is largely silent. Dialogue and language are conspicuously absent, with the emphasis placed on visual storytelling and nonverbal communication. Tartakovsky leverages color, lighting, shadows, and the characters' movements to convey a spectrum of emotions and motives. The show's silence is punctuated by the powerful score and sound design which injects an additional layer of depth, delivering an immersive audio-visual experience that distinguishes Primal from traditional animated series.

With Primal, Tartakovsky breaks away from his usual style of employing an injective humor even in serious scenarios. Instead, he indulges viewers in an intense, unannounced, and profoundly poignant emotional rollercoaster ride. The director's artistic drive is evident in the detailed rendering of every scene, each one carrying its unique significance. With its visceral, brutal, yet beautiful portrayal of survival, Primal is unquestionably an exploration of storytelling at its basic yet richest form.

In the world presented in Primal, survival is not a guarantee; it's a struggle. A constant tussle against the savage elements, ferocious predators and even the brutality within one’s self. Despite having little in common, Spear, the caveman, and Fang, the Tyrannosaurus Rex, become not just unlikely allies, but also friends, their bond forged in blood and desperation. They are two solitary beings who find kindred spirits in each other, amidst the primal battle for survival that marks their lives.

Primal's animation is exceptional: every line drawn, every color used, every movement animated reaffirms its commitment to quality. The depiction of violence is strikingly stark, yet poignantly beautiful. There is a certain grace to the carefully controlled chaos, a rhythm in the savagery, that hooks viewers from the very first episode. The show excels not just in its action sequences but also in its quieter moments. When Spear and Fang interact, or when we witness their individual reactions to different situations, the show truly reveals its depth and emotional resonance.

An interesting facet of the series worth mentioning is its imaginative take on prehistoric life. It presents a mesmerizing blend of realism and fantasy, where unimaginable creatures coexist alongside our protagonist in the savage ecosystem. These peculiar creatures often provide a sense of awe-inspiring suspense that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.

Primal is groundbreaking in its approach and execution, and Tartakovsky’s artistry shines through in every aspect of the show. The series is more than just a spectacle; it's a sensory feast of exceptional animation, gripping storytelling, and deep emotional undercurrents. Above all, it explores the depth of the wordless bond and emotional intelligence that can exist between two living beings who share common grounds such as survival, loss, and bravery.

For those who are accustomed to animation being a lighthearted vehicle of entertainment, Primal may come off as shockingly dark and grim. However, for viewers at the intersection of animation enthusiasts and lovers of profound storytelling, this series becomes a standout, setting a whole new benchmark in the animated television series landscape. It is a show that dares to be different, and in doing so, it boldly redefines the power of animated storytelling.

In summation, Genndy Tartakovsky’s Primal is an immaculate feat of visual narrative and creative audacity, a poignant exploration of primordial instincts, companionship, and survival. Viewer discretion is advised due to scenes of intense violence, but for those who appreciate innovative, high-quality animation and emotionally rich storytelling, Primal is a must-watch series.