Movie fans can retrace the travels of five college buddies from the University of Texas on a wild road trip in this fun and under-rated 1985 movie. After their 1971 graduation, the boys face career, marriage, and Vietnam, but first they take off to Far West Texas and Mexico for one last adventure. Fandango's cast includes Kevin Costner in his first starring role, Judd Nelson, Sam Robards, and Glenne Headly.
Take your own fandango across the Texas Mountain Trail and visit:
"Dom" is still etched in the rocks on the "Big Hill" on Big Bend Ranch State Park property, just a few steps from the pull off on Hwy 170, 13.5 miles north of Lajitas. Park your car at the pull off, then follow the path down and away from the road. Getting to "Dom" doesn't take long, but the footing is rocky and the short hike isn't for people with a fear of heights. Look back behind you to see the letters etched in the mountain. In front of you is the Rio Grande, and Kevin Costner's rocky perch.
The wedding scene takes place in the plaza in San Elizario, near the Los Portales Tourist Museum and Information Center and the Presidio Chapel.
The boys meet two girls at the Sonic Drive-In in Alpine, though the script attributes it to Marfa.
The boys visit the set of the movie, Giant! near Marfa, which is in disrepair on private land and is not open to the public. However, you can see an exhibit on Giant! at the Marfa and Presidio County Museum or visit the Paisano Hotel, the headquarters for filming in 1955. Lots of great photos and memorabilia of James Dean, Rock Hudson and Elizabeth Taylor!
For more information about taking a "Fandango" tour of Far West Texas, check out the wonderful website by Chuck Bush (who played Dorman) and Alex Musson, at www.ultimatefandango.com
"I think what I enjoyed about filming in west Texas was not the stunning vistas, though there were too many to count, nor the rich architecture, as amazing as it was; but what I enjoyed most about filming in west Texas was the kindness of the people. We never went anywhere that we weren’t met with smiles and a generous helping of hospitality. It was a once in a lifetime adventure that everyone should experience." --Chuck Bush
More information about Fandango is available at the Internet Movie Database website or Netflix.
"Texas is really ugly, you know that? I mean what could anyone possibly like about this state?"
--Judd Nelson, as "Phil Hicks"
"I like the way it’s shaped."
--Chuck Bush, as "Dorman"
"It’s wild, Philip. Always has been; always will be. Just like us."
--Kevin Costner, as "Garner Barnes"