Visiting Iconic Texas Locations from Robert Duvall Movies

Sadly, the world lost a film legend yesterday with Robert Duvall passing away at the age of 95. Many are remembering the actors iconic film roles, but you can actually visit some of the filming locations right here in Texas.

Tender Mercies (Waxachie, Texas)

It's insane that Robert Duvall only won a single Oscar in his entire movie career. He would be nominated seven times, which did include iconic roles in 'The Godfather' and Apocalypse Now'. His only win came for best actor in 1983 for his role as a washed up country star living in rural Texas.

Lonesome Dove (Del Rio and Bracketville, Texas)

Not a movie, but a mini series based on the book by Texas author Larry McMurtry. Duvall plays Gus McCrae. His performance as a former lawman earned him a Golden Globe. He was officially named an honorary Texas Ranger after the show aired.

The Apostle (Collin County, Denton County, and Dallas, Texas)

Not only did Robert Duvall star in 'The Apostle' he also directed the movie. He got another Oscar nomination for this film. The majority of this film is shot in Louisiana, but the beginning was shot right here in Texas. Duvall plays a Texas preacher on the run who winds up in Louisiana.

Secondhand Lions (Austin, Lockhart, and Pflugerville, Texas)

Secondhand Lions is about a boy who is sent to live on a Texas farm with his uncles. Robert Duvall plays one of those uncles named Hub McCann. Not the most memorable film of Robert Duvall's career, but it was a family film that many enjoyed in the 2000's.

Crazy Heart (Houston, Texas)

Jeff Bridges would win best actor at the Oscars for his role in this 2009 film. Jeff plays an alcoholic country singer and his friend Wayne Kramer played by Robert Duvall is his old fishing buddy who gives him advice from time to time.

Seven Days of Utopia (Utopia and Fredricksburg, Texas)

I won't lie, I know nothing about this Christian movie and in doing some research. Not the most well received movie for the iconic actor. Robert Duvall plays a golf mentor named Johnny Crawford. Iconic movie reviewer Roger Ebert said, "I would rather eat a golf ball than see this movie again."

A Night in Old Mexico (Brownsville, Texas)

Simple plot, a Texas rancher played by Robert Duvall goes on a road trip with his grandson. They pick up two hitchhikers who turn out to be on the run $150,000 in stolen drug money. Even though this was a low budget film that cost around two million to make, it only made $225,000 at the box office. Not a lot of people saw this one.

12 Mighty Orphans (Fort Worth, Texas)

Turns out this based off a true Texas story. Back in the 1930's, the Masonic Home for Orphans started their own football team and actually competed for the Texas State Championship. It was movie based on a book. Duvall plays a man named Mason Hawk, who technically is not a real person. He's based off of several people who helped fund the football team so they had the necessary equipment to play.

If you're interested in more of Robert Duvall's filmography. We have several film recommendations shot outside of Texas as well.