Watch Buffalo Girls

Buffalo Girls is a 1995 American Western drama film directed by Rod Hardy and starring Melanie Griffith, Anjelica Huston, and Gabriel Byrne. The film is based on a novel written by Larry McMurtry. Set in the late 19th century, the film tells the story of two women, Calamity Jane and her best friend, Dora DuFran, also known as "Buffalo Girls." Calamity Jane, played by Griffith, is a tough, hard-drinking, and gun-toting woman who becomes a legendary figure in the American West. She is often seen wearing men's clothing and engaging in activities that are traditionally considered masculine, such as hunting and gambling.

Dora DuFran, played by Huston, is a brothel owner who takes care of Calamity Jane during her periods of drunkenness and depression. Dora is also a mother figure to the younger girls who work at her brothel. She teaches them how to read and write, and helps them escape from the misery of their lives.

The film explores the relationship between Calamity Jane and Dora, and their struggles to survive in a world dominated by men. Despite their different personalities and lifestyles, they share a deep bond of friendship and loyalty that sustains them through the hardships they face.

Along the way, Calamity Jane meets and falls in love with Teddy Blue, played by Byrne, a charming cowboy who is also a writer. Teddy is fascinated by Calamity Jane's wild and unpredictable nature, and he encourages her to tell her story. With his help, Calamity Jane becomes a famous figure in American history, and her legend lives on long after her death.

The film also features a supporting cast of notable actors, including Jack Palance, Steve Buscemi, and Sam Elliott. Palance plays Buffalo Bill Cody, a legendary figure who becomes Calamity Jane's friend and mentor. Buscemi plays a sleazy saloon owner who tries to take advantage of Dora and her girls. Elliott plays Wild Bill Hickok, a famous gunslinger who has a brief but memorable encounter with Calamity Jane.

Buffalo Girls is a beautifully-shot film, with stunning scenery and excellent period detail. The costumes and sets are authentic and believable, and the cinematography captures the harsh beauty of the American West. The performances are also top-notch, with Griffith and Huston delivering strong, nuanced performances that capture the complexity of their characters.

Overall, Buffalo Girls is a powerful and moving film about friendship, love, and survival in the American West. It paints a vivid portrait of two remarkable women who defied convention and carved out a place for themselves in a world that was often hostile and unforgiving. It is a fitting tribute to the legacy of Calamity Jane and Dora DuFran, and a compelling story that will resonate with audiences of all ages.