***SPOILERS*** One of the most prolific western actors, Morgan Woodward plays "Shotgun Gibbs" in this episode. He has previously been introduced by way of a very clumsy plot and storyline, and continues the introduction here. One of the main problems I have with this episode is the grinding need to establish Gibbs' identity. Part of this is done by Earp using a railroad track cart to get into Dodge, rather than ride his horse. There's more to it than just this, but this illustrates my point. Right after, he starts cranking down the track, his newly deputized partner (Gibbs) rides up on his trusty white mule, "Roscoe" and rides hell bent-for-leather into dodge to help Wyatt with the gunfight. Why bother with the cart? If a mule can get you into town that quick, don't leave your horse. Ever.
One other niggling detail is the disdain for killing. Sometimes, it is part of the job, and cannot be avoided. I have to keep watching to find out how the bad guys get to remain alive to bother Wyatt in this long-running program. Woodward's part is well played, but total fiction. His low, gravelly voice probably got him as much work as anything, and is as important to his portrayals as Sam Elliot's voice to his. Acting: very good. Sets: okay. Nonsense - great. A 7 at best.
One other niggling detail is the disdain for killing. Sometimes, it is part of the job, and cannot be avoided. I have to keep watching to find out how the bad guys get to remain alive to bother Wyatt in this long-running program. Woodward's part is well played, but total fiction. His low, gravelly voice probably got him as much work as anything, and is as important to his portrayals as Sam Elliot's voice to his. Acting: very good. Sets: okay. Nonsense - great. A 7 at best.
