Gunsmoke, The Collection
[Gunsmoke.jpe] Gunsmoke was an American TV tradition from its initial appearance on television in 1956. From the opening introduction by the Duke, to the ensemble cast that included James Arness, Amanda Blake, Dennis Weaver, Roy Barcroft, Glenn Strange, and Buck Taylor, to the talented writers and production staff; it was a study in the way a television should be made.
Initially, Gunsmoke was the only intelligent adult western on television. The Lone Ranger, Annie Oakley, and shows like Wagon Train were still entertaining families all over the world, and Gunsmoke broke the mold. Portraying the West more accurately, with the strength of character the heroes and villains possessed, seemed to be the mission of the producers.
James Arness was perfect for the role that John Wayne first turned down. He suggested his friend from the Ford family of actors instead, and we are grateful. Standing tall at 6'5", he literally towered above his fellow actors. His gruff, no nonsense manner was suited for Marshal Matt Dillon.
After the end of Gunsmoke, Arness returned to the screen in a variety of series roles, most notably, How the West Was Won, and at least three excellent Gunsmoke telefilms. "The Last Apache", "To The Last Man," and "Return To Dodge" are all packaged by Parmaount/CBS in a set that collectors dare not miss!
Individually, all three films are strong and showcase Matt Dillon at his best. "To The Last Man" (1991) features Pat Hingle (Batman) and Morgan Woodward in an all-out range war with vigilante ranchers at his back, and a headstrong daughter to the front. Matt Dillon pulls out all stops to restore peace, the only way he can.
"The Last Apache" (1990) pits Dillon against the Comanche who burnt the ranch of a long lost love, only to find out he has a daughter! Taken in the raid, Matt picks up the trail and fights to reconcile himself with a family he never knew he had.
"Return To Dodge" (1995) is the last Gunsmoke film Arness made. Called on by duty to help track down a "dangerous" escapee, he ends up on a manhunt that will only end in death for one man. God notwithstanding, Dillon aims to be him!
As a Gunsmoke fan, these films are long over due on the shelves again, and this DVD pack deserves space on your classic section, right beside High Noon. The cinematography is awesome, and one more time, I am reminded why I love westerns. Trust me on this one, Matt Dillon told me so.
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