Watch Dream West: Part 1

Dream West: Part 1 is a 1986 American television movie directed by Dick Lowry and starring Richard Chamberlain, Benny Gibson, and Alice Krige. The movie tells the story of John Charles Fremont, a famous explorer, military officer, and politician who played a significant role in the westward expansion of the United States. The movie takes place in the early 1840s when Fremont was a young lieutenant in the U.S. Army. The story begins with Fremont meeting the veteran frontiersman Kit Carson (played by Benny Gibson) in Missouri. Carson takes Fremont under his wing and teaches him the skills he needs to survive on the frontier. Together, they embark on a series of expeditions to explore the uncharted territories of the American West.

As Fremont and Carson explore the wilderness of the West, they encounter various challenges and dangers. They brave freezing temperatures, treacherous mountain passes, and hostile Native American tribes. Along the way, they also meet a variety of colorful characters, including trappers, traders, and prospectors, all of whom are trying to make their fortune in the new territories.

One of the most important plots in the movie is Fremont's relationship with Jessie Benton (played by Alice Krige), the daughter of a powerful politician who believes in the westward expansion of the United States. Jessie becomes Fremont's patron and helps him secure funding for his expeditions. She also becomes Fremont's love interest and eventually his wife.

Dream West: Part 1 is an epic adventure story that captures the spirit of the American frontier. The movie features stunning landscapes, sweeping vistas, and thrilling action sequences. The performances by the ensemble cast are outstanding, particularly Richard Chamberlain and Benny Gibson, who bring a sense of authenticity and gravitas to their roles.

The movie also offers insights into the historical context of the westward expansion of the United States. It highlights the political, economic, and social motivations that drove the settlers to move west and the impact of this expansion on the Native American population. It also shows the role of explorers and adventurers like Fremont in the colonization of the West.

Overall, Dream West: Part 1 is a fascinating portrait of a key period in American history. It is an engaging and informative movie that will appeal to anyone interested in the American frontier, exploration, and adventure. It successfully sets the stage for Part 2, building excitement for the continuation of Fremont's story.

Dream West: Part 1 is a 1986 western with a runtime of 1 hour and 36 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.8.