Ep 2. On The Trail

On The Trail, episode 2 of Lonesome Dove season 1, follows the group of cowboys as they continue their journey across the western frontier. The episode begins with the cowboys waking up to find that one of their horses has been stolen overnight. This sets off a chain of events that forces them to make some tough decisions and confront some dangerous challenges.

As the cowboys continue on their journey, tensions start to rise within the group. Some of the cowboys are more experienced than others, and there is a sense of competition and rivalry between them. This is especially true when it comes to their leader, Augustus "Gus" McCrae (played by Robert Duvall) and his best friend Woodrow F. Call (played by Tommy Lee Jones).

One of the major challenges faced by the cowboys in this episode is a river crossing. The river is deep and treacherous, and they are forced to work together to get all of their cattle safely across. This is a physically demanding and dangerous task, but they manage to succeed thanks to their resourcefulness and teamwork.

Throughout the episode, there are a number of subplots and character developments. We learn more about each of the cowboys and their backgrounds, which helps to flesh out their personalities and motivations. For example, we see a softer side of Gus when he takes a young boy under his wing and tries to teach him how to be a cowboy. We also see some romantic tension between two of the cowboys, which adds a layer of complexity to their relationship.

The episode ends on a dramatic note, as the cowboys come face to face with a group of Native Americans. This encounter raises questions about their relationship with the indigenous peoples of the land, and whether they will be able to peacefully coexist or face conflict.

Overall, On The Trail is a strong episode that builds on the momentum of the show's premiere. It sets up new challenges and developments for the characters, while also exploring themes of friendship, teamwork, and cultural conflict. Fans of the western genre will find a lot to enjoy here, from the sweeping landscapes to the rough-and-tumble cowboy culture. And with plenty of drama and action to keep things moving, it's clear that Lonesome Dove is a show worth sticking with.