
Dan August: Once Is Never Enough 1980
In the gritty coastal town of Santa Luisa, California, seasoned homicide detective Lt. Dan August digs into a pair of chilling cases that shake the community to its core.
Director: Ralph Senensky
Cast









Frequently Asked Questions
What is Dan August: Once Is Never Enough (1980) about?
This TV movie reunites detective Lt. Dan August with his partner Wilentz as they investigate two disturbing cases: the poisoning deaths of two homeless men and the tragic rape and murder of a young woman in Santa Luisa, California. The film blends crime drama with action as August races to uncover the truth amid a web of deceit.
Who directed Dan August: Once Is Never Enough?
Ralph Senensky directed this 1980 crime drama, delivering a tense and atmospheric adaptation of episodes from the original "Dan August" TV series.
Who stars in Dan August: Once Is Never Enough?
The film stars Burt Reynolds as Lt. Dan August, joined by a talented cast that includes Norman Fell, Richard Anderson, Jerry Ayres, and Jan-Michael Vincent.
Is Dan August: Once Is Never Enough (1980) worth watching?
As a crime drama rooted in classic TV movie aesthetics, this film offers solid performances, particularly from Burt Reynolds, and a compelling mystery. While it scores low on modern action scales, its procedural depth and 1980s charm make it a nostalgic pick for fans of the genre.
How long is Dan August: Once Is Never Enough?
The film runs for 93 minutes, delivering a tight and engaging story within a concise runtime.
About Dan August: Once Is Never Enough (1980) — Crime Drama with Burt Reynolds
In the gritty coastal town of Santa Luisa, California, seasoned homicide detective Lt. Dan August digs into a pair of chilling cases that shake the community to its core. This 1980 TV movie reimagines two episodes from the classic "Dan August" series, blending crime drama with hard-hitting action as August and his steadfast partner Wilentz trace the poisoning deaths of two homeless men and the brutal rape and murder of a young woman. Directed with a sharp eye for suspense by Ralph Senensky, the film immerses viewers in a world where justice is elusive and corruption lurks beneath the surface.
Burt Reynolds stars as the determined August, bringing his signature intensity to a role that balances relentless investigation with personal conviction. Joined by a strong supporting cast including Norman Fell, Richard Anderson, and Jan-Michael Vincent, the story unfolds with a tense, procedural edge, exploring themes of morality, resilience, and the cost of fighting for the truth in an unjust world.