Louis L’Amour is one of the most famous and prolific writers in the Western genre. His stories of the American West have captured the imaginations of young and old alike, and his influence of Western authors is still felt today. Born in 1908, L’Amour would go on to write 89 novels. His short stories and novels have become material for a myriad film adaptation for both the big screen and for TV. One of his most famous novels, Hondo, was adapted for the big screen in 1953 with the iconic John Wayne in the title role.
In this special edition box set, Louis L’Amour: Western Collection, three of L’Amour’s novels-turned-films are presented. Let’s take a look at each one.
The Sacketts (1979)
Meet the Sacketts: Tell, Orrin, and Tyrel. Wherever they go it seems that trouble isn’t far behind. In this two-part TV miniseries, Tom Selleck, Sam Elliot, and Jeff Osterhage play the aforementioned brothers, and but Western fans will also recognize some familiar faces from past Western films including Glenn Ford, Gilbert Roland, Jack Elam, Slim Pickens, and Pat Buttram. While its not as epic as Lonesome Dove, the superb cast makes this an entertaining Western from start to finish.
Conagher (1991)
Before he was The Stranger The Big Lebowski (1998), Sam Elliott starred, co-wrote, and executive produced this adaptation of the Louis L’Amour novel, Conagher. What makes this Western stand-out from so many others is the strong romance component of the storyline. Not only is this a key element, but it’s a realistic romance without the trappings of the typical storybook love stories we’ve grown accustomed to. Aside from Sam Elliot as Conn Conagher, Katherine Ross does an excellent job as the strong female lead, Evie Teale. This is definitely a Western for both men and women alike.
Catlow (1971)
Catlow is a rip-roaring and fun-filled Western romp starring three big name actors from the early 1970s. And what’s not to love? Yul Brenner as the smiling, easygoing outlaw Catlow; Richard Crenna as the sheriff/friend who has sworn to bring him in; and Leonard Nimoy as the bounty hunter out to hang Catlow for his crimes. Throw in plenty of gunfights, vista shots, and Indians, and you’ve got yourself a Western that is enjoyable on many levels.
If you are a fan of the Western genre and have a hankering for some cowboy fun, then saddle up to Louis L’Amour: Western Collection. You’ll be glad you did! Yee-haw!!!