Have Gun Will Travel Season 1 Episode 2
Introduction
Have Gun Will Travel is a western drama television series that aired from 1957-1963. It follows the story of a gunfighter for hire named Paladin, who travels the Old West and takes on various missions for his clients. In season 1, episode 2, titled "Death Row", Paladin is hired to save a man from being hanged for a crime he claims he did not commit. This article will provide a detailed overview of the episode.
The Plot
The episode opens with Paladin arriving in the town of Purgatory to meet with his client, a man named Harry Oakes. Harry has been sentenced to death for a murder he claims he did not commit, and he hires Paladin to prove his innocence and save his life. Paladin is initially skeptical of Harry's claims, but after investigating the case, he begins to believe that Harry is telling the truth.
Paladin discovers that there is evidence that could prove Harry's innocence, but it is being held by the town's corrupt sheriff, who is working with the real murderer to cover up the crime. Paladin confronts the sheriff and demands that he turn over the evidence, but the sheriff refuses and orders his men to kill Paladin.
Paladin escapes and manages to retrieve the evidence, which he presents to the judge just in time to save Harry from the gallows. The real murderer is then revealed, and Harry is exonerated.
The Characters
Richard Boone stars as Paladin, the gunfighter for hire who takes on Harry's case. Harry Oakes is played by actor Ward Bond. Other notable characters in the episode include the corrupt sheriff, played by actor John Anderson, and the real murderer, played by actor James Best.
The Themes
"Death Row" deals with themes of justice, corruption, and morality. Paladin is a man of honor who believes in justice, and he is willing to risk his own life to save an innocent man from being hanged. The episode also explores the corruption of those in power, as the town's sheriff is shown to be working with a murderer to cover up a crime. Finally, the episode raises questions about morality and the value of human life, as Harry's impending execution forces Paladin to confront the consequences of his actions.
The Production
Have Gun Will Travel was created by Sam Rolfe and Herb Meadow, and it was produced by CBS Television. The show was filmed in both California and Arizona, with the Old Tucson Studios serving as a primary filming location. "Death Row" was directed by Richard Whorf and written by Gene Roddenberry, who would later go on to create Star Trek.
Conclusion
Overall, "Death Row" is a gripping and suspenseful episode of Have Gun Will Travel that explores themes of justice, corruption, and morality. Richard Boone delivers a standout performance as Paladin, and the episode features a strong supporting cast. If you are a fan of westerns or classic television, this episode is definitely worth checking out.