Two for Texas

Two for Texas is a captivating 1998 television movie directed by Rod Hardy and written by Larry Brothers, starring iconic musician and actor Kris Kristofferson, Scott Bairstow and Irene Bedard. Set in the 19th century, the film is a gripping western drama that is heavily steeped in history, with the scenic backdrop of Texas providing an apt representation of the era.

The movie begins in Louisiana in 1836, with the protagonist, Son Holland—played by Scott Bairstow—and his new-found comrade Hugh Allison—captivatingly essayed by Kris Kristofferson—breaking out of a harsh Cajun penal colony. Their escape is not without consequence though, as they are indiscriminately pursued by Simon Foote, a sadistic, relentless sergeant, personified by Peter Coyote, as well as the brother of a man they were forced to kill in self-defense during their breakout.

Running for their lives, the duo makes their way to Texas, which at the time is on the verge of a significant historical transition. Texas is gearing up for a revolution against the Mexican rules, setting the perfect tumultuous and suspenseful scenario for their story. The film is centered on the period leading to the battle of San Jacinto, which changed the course of Texas' history.

Two for Texas follows Holland and Allison as they maneuver through these complex dynamics, fraught with peril at every turn. They encounter many memorable characters along their journey, including the enigmatic and resilient Sana, portrayed by Irene Bedard, who herself is on the run after murdering an army officer.

Despite their hardships, the pair attempts to make their existence in Texas by dealing cards, driving cattle, and joining Sam Houston's Texas Volunteers, always with an eye toward living free. The narrative is filled with dramatic moments that perfectly encapsulate the harsh realities of the era while reflecting the duo's fight for freedom and weaving a compelling tale of friendship, survival, redemption, and rebellion.

Scott Bairstow delivers a bravado performance as Son Holland, a young man with grit and determination whose life is drastically altered by circumstances. His relationship with Allison, a cynical, beaten-down older man portrayed superbly by Kris Kristofferson, forms the crux of the narrative. Kristofferson effortlessly portrays the complexity of his character, a man forged and hardened by a harsh life but not without compassion and a sense of justice.

Irene Bedard imbues the film with an underlying, yet, crucial femininity that goes beyond the archetype of a woman needing rescue. As a woman of the 19th century yet ahead of her time, she is crucial to transferring the narrative forward and providing an additional layer of complexity to the film.

Two for Texas also boasts an exceptional cast of supporting actors who give depth to the narrative through their stellar performances, including Tom Skerritt and Peter Coyote. The film is filled with intense face-offs, daring escapes, codes of honor and camaraderie that epitomize the western genre.

The film's music and cinematography deserve special mention. The riveting background score by Mark Snow complements the gritty narrative and vividly captures the tension, thrill, and drama of the unfolding plot. The lush landscapes and a realistic depiction of the era through the lens of cinematographer David Connell add richness and authenticity to the narrative.

Two for Texas effectively unveils a glimpse into Texas history while being an entertaining and engaging Western movie. It truly follows the tradition of powerful storytelling common in the genre, featuring compelling characters, well-drafted narratives, historical contexts, and visually enchanting locations. The film showcases not just the physical journey of two convicts to freedom but also a poignant exploration of their characters and the indefatigable human spirit's endurance and resilience.

For history aficionados, Western genre enthusiasts, and fans of compelling storytelling, Two for Texas is a film that offers an intriguing mix of historical context, rousing action, exciting plot turns, and profound character development.