Watch Dead Man's Gun

Dead Man's Gun is a western anthology series that aired from 1997 to 1999, produced by MGM and starring Kris Kristofferson as the narrator. The show takes place in the old west and revolves around a cursed pistol that brings death to anyone who possesses it. Each episode tells a new story of someone who comes into contact with the gun and ultimately meets their demise.

The show utilizes an interesting format where the gun is passed from person to person, sometimes as a result of a sale or a bet, and sometimes by force. The gun serves as a common thread that ties the disparate stories together, making each episode feel like a unique piece of a larger puzzle. The gun's history is slowly revealed as the series progresses, with each new owner adding another layer to the pistol's dark past.

The stories themselves are classic western tales of greed, revenge, and betrayal, but with a supernatural twist. Several episodes have a distinctly horror movie feel, with spooky music and unsettling camera angles building tension as characters meet their grisly fates. Other episodes are more focused on action and gunplay, with tense shootouts and horseback chases. No matter the genre, the show's attention to detail and commitment to historical accuracy brings the old west to life in a way that feels authentic and immersive.

One of the show's strengths is its impressive roster of guest stars. Each episode features a new cast of characters, and the showrunners managed to attract some of the biggest names in Hollywood at the time. Actors like Laura Leighton, John Ritter, and Henry Winkler all made appearances on the show, lending their talent and star power to the already impressive stories.

But despite the rotating cast of characters and settings, the true star of the show is always the gun itself. It's a unique concept that keeps the viewers engaged, wondering who will be the next unlucky soul to come into contact with the cursed pistol. The gun itself is a fascinating piece of prop design, with an intricate engraving and a menacing look that perfectly captures the show's macabre tone.

Another standout aspect of the series is the fantastic score by Jay Semko. The music perfectly captures the show's western setting, with twangy guitar riffs and dramatic orchestral swells underscoring the action. The theme song, "Dead Man's Gun," is a haunting ballad that sets the tone for each episode.

Overall, Dead Man's Gun is a unique and entertaining take on the western genre. The cursed pistol adds a supernatural element that keeps the stories fresh and exciting, while the attention to historical accuracy and commitment to production design make the show a visual treat. Fans of westerns, horror, and anthology series will all find something to love in this underrated gem of a show.

Dead Man's Gun is a series that ran for 2 seasons (66 episodes) between March 2, 1997 and on MGM