If you were a fan of classic Westerns, this iconic show likely holds a special place in your heart. Known for its compelling characters and timeless storytelling, this series captivated audiences in its heyday. But how well do you remember it now? Whether you grew up watching it or discovered it later, there are still some fascinating facts about this legendary show that may surprise you. Let’s take a trip down memory lane and explore the unforgettable legacy of this Western masterpiece.
Introduction
Diane Lane has had a long and illustrious career, including memorable roles in films across various genres. Yet, when it comes to Westerns, Lane has had the unique opportunity to work with some of the biggest names in Hollywood, from Burt Lancaster to Robert Duvall. In an exclusive interview, Lane reflects on her experiences working in Westerns, from her early years to her latest venture in Let Him Go, a film that once again brings the genre to life.
The Western Genre – What Qualifies?
“What is the criteria for a Western?” Diane Lane asks. It’s an interesting question, considering the shifting nature of the genre. Does a Western simply need to feature horses, cowboy hats, or a rugged frontier setting? In Lane’s latest project, Let Him Go, she checks many of these boxes, but the movie also expands the definition of what a Western can be.
In Let Him Go, Lane plays Margaret Blackledge, a grandmother on a mission with her retired lawman husband (played by Kevin Costner) to rescue their grandson from a dangerous criminal family. The film combines drama, suspense, and the age-old Western theme of fighting for justice. While it may not fit neatly into the traditional Western mold, the spirit of the genre runs deep throughout.
Early Western Roles – A Ride with Legends
Diane Lane’s love for the Western genre goes back to her younger years. One of her earliest experiences was on Cattle Annie and Little Britches, where she starred alongside Burt Lancaster. “To work with Burt Lancaster was just epic,” she recalls, describing the intensity between Lancaster and the director. Set on John Wayne’s ranch in Durango, Mexico, it was a formative experience for a young Lane working with seasoned actors like John Savage and Scott Glenn.
A Defining Role – Lonesome Dove
For many, Diane Lane’s most defining role in a Western came when she played Lorena Wood in the legendary miniseries Lonesome Dove. The series is widely considered one of the best Westerns of all time, and Lane’s portrayal of the character is one that still resonates with fans. Lane reflects fondly on working with Robert Duvall, whose portrayal of Gus McCrae is iconic. She recalls Duvall staying in character the entire time they filmed, an experience that deeply impacted her as an actor.
“Something magical happened there between the page and the screenplay and the performance and the audience,” Lane says of Lonesome Dove. The chemistry between the actors and the incredible storytelling made the series a timeless classic, a “strike” in every sense of the word.
The Challenges of Being a Western Woman
Lane has often portrayed strong female characters who stand out in a genre typically dominated by men. She sees Westerns as an opportunity to explore the depth of human emotions in a frontier setting, but acknowledges the limited space for women in the genre. In The Oldest Living Confederate Widow Tells All, she played a complex character married to a Civil War veteran portrayed by Donald Sutherland. It was a demanding role, one made more challenging by the fact that she had just become a mother.
The Underrated Roles
Though Lane is often celebrated for her big-name Western roles, some of her contributions have flown under the radar. For instance, she played a critical role in Wild Bill, directed by Walter Hill, though it’s a film not many recall her being part of. Her performance as the woman who ruins Hickok’s life is pivotal, but Lane reflects that people often overlook her role in the movie due to its experimental storytelling techniques.
A Desire to Return to the Genre
Despite the rarity of Western roles for women, Lane is eager to return to the genre. Reflecting on her career, she expresses a desire to continue playing roles that resonate with where she is in life now. She feels that there is still so much to explore, especially for older actresses who are often relegated to the sidelines. In her view, Westerns offer a perfect landscape to delve deeper into the complexities of aging characters.
Conclusion
As Diane Lane looks to the future, her hope is to continue finding meaningful work that allows her to explore her full potential, regardless of age. Westerns have provided her with some of the most enriching experiences in her career, and she looks forward to more opportunities to saddle up again. With Let Him Go breathing new life into the genre, Lane shows no signs of slowing down as she rides through Hollywood’s ever-changing frontier.
