From the very first paragraph of McMurty's original Pulitzer Prizewinner I was hooked on all things 'Lonesome Dove'. At that stage obviously I had no idea of the wealth that was to come. So, through the original Duvall/Lee Jones, to Jim Garner as Call in 'The Streets of Laredo', then prequels 'Dead Mans Walk' and 'Comanche Moon', and even the McMurtry non-authorised 'Return to Lonesome Dove' with Jon Voight. The DVDs and the books which inspired them all now have pride of place at home.
Then came 'The Series' with Scott Bairstow, Eric McCormack and the fabulous Christianne Hart which took Newt Call as its lead. Yesterday I got very sadly to the end with the final episode of 'The Outlaw Years'. This was a much grittier outing for the characters than 'The Series' and there is no doubt certain characters underwent changes which were perhaps a little unrealistic, especially Josiah and Austin Peale. That said, they suffered greatly at Hannah's death as did Call who changed completely from 'The Series' but I guess with good cause.
Although the ending left much unsaid and undone (can anyone please tell me if a follow-up was originally planned but pulled?) this was a compelling part of the 'Lonesome Dove' saga, exceptionally well produced, atmospheric and beautifully played by all especially Eric McCormack and Scott Bairstow.
If you watch the episodes in the correct order (not as on the DVD but as listed on this website) and suspend a little disbelief you will find it satisfying and enormously enjoyable.
'Lonesome Dove ' The Outlaw Years' - as with all LD titles - has great merit and I cannot recommend too highly.