The original version of this Texas-based primetime soap opera lasted 14 seasons, but TNT's reboot managed to survive only three, for reasons that are obvious in this final set. Despite the presence of veteran regulars Patrick Duffy as goody-two-shoes Bobby Ewing and Linda Gray as alcoholic Sue Ellen (with Ken Kercheval making brief, sporadic appearances as Ewing nemesis Cliff Barnes), the show suffers mightily from the absence of Larry Hagman, who died midway through the second season; his cunning J.R. Ewing is sorely missed here. The attempt to replace J.R. with his equally underhanded son, John Ross (Josh Henderson), never really clicked, and the rest of the newcomers are pretty pallid as well. This year's overarching plot—involving a drug cartel's attempt to take control of Ewing Oil as a prelude to seizing the Mexican government—serves up skullduggery and double-crosses, but in the end comes across as awfully thin gruel. Since filming was completed before TNT's cancellation axe fell, moreover, the finale ends on a cliffhanger note. DVD extras include deleted scenes. Diehard Dallas fans will undoubtedly be interested, but this is an optional purchase otherwise. (F. Swietek)
Dallas: The Complete Third Season
Warner, 3 discs, 633 min., not rated, DVD: $39.98 Volume 30, Issue 2
Dallas: The Complete Third Season
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