Performance & Direction: Gunsmoke: Return to Dodge Review
Last updated: January 29, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is Gunsmoke: Return to Dodge (1987) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE with a verified audience rating of 6.4/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this TV Movie.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any TV Movie is often anchored by its ensemble, and Gunsmoke: Return to Dodge features a noteworthy lineup led by James Arness . Supported by the likes of Amanda Blake and Buck Taylor , the performances bring a palpable realism to the scripted words.
Performance Analysis: While the cast delivers competent and professional performances, they are occasionally hampered by a script that leans into familiar archetypes.
Final Verdict: Is it Worth Watching?
Story & Plot Summary: Gunsmoke: Return to Dodge
Quick Plot Summary: Gunsmoke: Return to Dodge is a TV Movie, Action, Western film that presents a compelling narrative that engages viewers from start to finish. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict and narrative structure.
Ending Explained: Gunsmoke: Return to Dodge
Ending Breakdown: Gunsmoke: Return to Dodge concludes its story with a mix of closure and open interpretation. The finale presents its approach to tv movie resolution.
The climactic sequence delivers on the escalating tension, offering viewers material for post-viewing discussion.
Ending Analysis:
- Narrative Resolution: The story concludes by addressing its primary narrative threads, providing closure while maintaining some ambiguity.
- Character Arcs: Character journeys reach their narrative endpoints, reflecting the film's thematic priorities.
- Thematic Payoff: The ending reinforces the tv movie themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Gunsmoke: Return to Dodge reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Who Should Watch Gunsmoke: Return to Dodge?
Worth Watching If You:
- Enjoy TV Movies films and don't mind familiar tropes
- Are a fan of the cast or director
- Want solid genre entertainment
Top Cast: Gunsmoke: Return to Dodge
All Cast & Crew →
Where to Watch Gunsmoke: Return to Dodge Online?
Streaming Hub🏷️ Buy on
Fandango At HomeGunsmoke: Return to Dodge Parents Guide & Age Rating
1987 AdvisoryWondering about Gunsmoke: Return to Dodge age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of Gunsmoke: Return to Dodge is 100 minutes (1h 40m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 6.4/10, and global performance metrics, Gunsmoke: Return to Dodge is classified as a ABOVE AVERAGE. It remains an essential part of the 1987 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Gunsmoke: Return to Dodge worth watching?
Gunsmoke: Return to Dodge is definitely worth watching if you enjoy TV Movie movies. It has a verified rating of 6.4/10 and stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE in our box office analysis.
Where can I find Gunsmoke: Return to Dodge parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for Gunsmoke: Return to Dodge identifies it as Not Rated. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of Gunsmoke: Return to Dodge?
The total duration of Gunsmoke: Return to Dodge is 100 minutes, which is approximately 1h 40m long.
Best Movies to Watch if you liked Gunsmoke: Return to Dodge
How Gunsmoke: Return to Dodge Compares & Where it Ranks
Critic Reviews for Gunsmoke: Return to Dodge
No reviews found for this filter.
movieMx Verified
This review has been verified for accuracy and editorial quality by our senior cinematic analysts.
This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
Useful Links
More with James Arness
View full filmography
Part of the Gunsmoke Movie Collection
Explore the full watch order, ratings, and collection details.
View Full Franchise