While often referred to loosely as “Lonesome Dove movies,” the reality is more complex. There wasn’t a series of theatrical films. Instead, the saga unfolded primarily as a television miniseries and subsequently, a series of TV movies and spin-offs, making a definitive count a bit nuanced but generally understood as the original miniseries plus several sequels.
The Core of the Saga: Lonesome Dove Miniseries
The cornerstone of the Lonesome Dove legacy is the original 1989 miniseries, a landmark in television history. This epic, based on Larry McMurtry’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, captured the hearts of audiences with its unforgettable characters, stunning landscapes, and poignant storytelling. It’s the foundation upon which all subsequent adaptations are built.
Beyond the Miniseries: Expanding the Lonesome Dove Universe
Following the miniseries’ phenomenal success, the Lonesome Dove universe expanded with several sequels and spin-offs, all airing on television. While none quite captured the magic of the original, they continued to explore the characters and themes established in McMurtry’s work.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Lonesome Dove Saga
What is the Definitive List of Lonesome Dove Sequels and Spin-offs?
Here’s the complete list, in chronological order of release:
- Lonesome Dove (1989) – Miniseries
- Return to Lonesome Dove (1993) – Miniseries
- Lonesome Dove: The Series (1994-1995) – Television Series
- Lonesome Dove: The Outlaw Years (1995-1996) – Television Series
- Dead Man’s Walk (1996) – Miniseries
- Comanche Moon (2008) – Miniseries
It’s crucial to understand that Return to Lonesome Dove stars a different cast and disregards some plot points from the novel and original miniseries. Dead Man’s Walk and Comanche Moon are prequels, showcasing the early adventures of Gus McCrae and Woodrow F. Call.
Which Lonesome Dove Series is Considered the “True” Sequel?
This is a point of contention among fans. While Return to Lonesome Dove was marketed as a sequel, many consider it a loose adaptation due to casting changes and altered storylines. The television series Lonesome Dove: The Series and Lonesome Dove: The Outlaw Years follow characters established in the original miniseries but branch off into their own narratives. Therefore, there’s no universally accepted “true” sequel in the same vein as a direct continuation of the original’s story.
Are Dead Man’s Walk and Comanche Moon Worth Watching if I Loved the Original Lonesome Dove?
Yes, absolutely. These prequels offer valuable insight into the early lives of Gus McCrae and Woodrow F. Call, providing context for their later experiences and strengthening the emotional impact of the original miniseries. They showcase their camaraderie, their contrasting personalities, and the events that shaped them into the iconic characters we know and love. Just manage your expectations: they lack the scope and emotional resonance of the original.
Who Played Gus McCrae and Woodrow F. Call in Each Lonesome Dove Adaptation?
This is where things get interesting and potentially confusing:
- Lonesome Dove (1989): Robert Duvall as Gus McCrae, Tommy Lee Jones as Woodrow F. Call
- Return to Lonesome Dove (1993): Jon Voight as Woodrow F. Call, Barbara Hershey (instead of Anjelica Huston as Clara)
- Lonesome Dove: The Series (1994-1995) & Lonesome Dove: The Outlaw Years (1995-1996): Scott Bairstow as Newt Call (son of Woodrow), Eric McCormack as Colonel Francis Clay Mosby.
- Dead Man’s Walk (1996): F. Murray Abraham as Woodrow F. Call, David Arquette as Gus McCrae
- Comanche Moon (2008): Karl Urban as Woodrow F. Call, Steve Zahn as Gus McCrae
Where Can I Watch All the Lonesome Dove Series and Spin-offs?
Availability varies depending on your location and streaming services. The original Lonesome Dove is frequently available for purchase or rental on major platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV+, and Google Play Movies & TV. Other series and spin-offs may be available on these platforms as well, or through specialty Western streaming services like Starz Encore Westerns (check their schedule). DVD and Blu-ray sets are also a reliable option.
Why Were There So Many Casting Changes in the Sequels?
Several factors contributed to the casting changes. Scheduling conflicts, creative differences, and actors simply choosing not to return to the roles all played a part. Return to Lonesome Dove was particularly affected, as several original cast members declined to participate, leading to recasting of major roles.
Did Larry McMurtry Approve of All the Lonesome Dove Adaptations?
McMurtry’s feelings towards the various adaptations were mixed. He was heavily involved in the original Lonesome Dove miniseries, writing the screenplay. However, he was less enthusiastic about some of the sequels and spin-offs, particularly Return to Lonesome Dove, which he felt deviated significantly from the spirit of his novel. He had a better relationship with Dead Man’s Walk and Comanche Moon.
What Makes the Original Lonesome Dove Miniseries So Special?
The original miniseries achieved iconic status due to several factors:
- Stellar Cast: The performances by Robert Duvall, Tommy Lee Jones, Danny Glover, Anjelica Huston, and Diane Lane were universally praised.
- Faithful Adaptation: The miniseries captured the essence of McMurtry’s novel, preserving its themes of friendship, loss, and the changing American West.
- Epic Scope: The story was vast and sprawling, showcasing the beauty and brutality of the frontier.
- Emotional Resonance: The characters were complex and relatable, and their struggles resonated deeply with audiences.
Is There Any Talk of a Lonesome Dove Remake or Reboot?
As with any beloved franchise, rumors of a remake or reboot occasionally surface. As of late 2023, there’s no credible evidence to suggest that a remake is currently in active development. Given the original miniseries’ iconic status, any remake would face immense scrutiny.
What are the Key Themes Explored in the Lonesome Dove Saga?
The saga delves into several profound themes, including:
- The End of the Old West: The story portrays the decline of the frontier and the changing landscape of America.
- Friendship and Loyalty: The bond between Gus and Call is central to the narrative, highlighting the importance of friendship in a harsh world.
- The Cost of Ambition: The characters’ aspirations and dreams often come at a price, forcing them to confront difficult choices.
- Loss and Grief: The saga deals with themes of loss, grief, and the resilience of the human spirit.
Which Lonesome Dove Series is the Most Historically Accurate?
While Lonesome Dove is a work of fiction, it is grounded in historical realities. The Texas Rangers existed, as did the challenges of cattle drives and life on the frontier. The original miniseries is often considered the most historically accurate, as it closely adheres to McMurtry’s novel, which was informed by extensive research. However, all the adaptations take liberties with historical details to serve the narrative.
What Order Should I Watch the Lonesome Dove Series in?
For the best viewing experience and to understand the characters’ development, watching the series in chronological order of release is recommended:
- Lonesome Dove (1989)
- Return to Lonesome Dove (1993)
- Lonesome Dove: The Series (1994-1995)
- Lonesome Dove: The Outlaw Years (1995-1996)
- Dead Man’s Walk (1996)
- Comanche Moon (2008)
This order allows you to follow the story’s timeline and appreciate the evolution of the characters across different eras. Whether you consider them all worthwhile viewing is a matter of personal taste. The original Lonesome Dove is required viewing for any fan of Westerns.