Ep 5. Young Man with a Gun
- October 20, 1956
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7.9 (168)
Gunsmoke is an American western television series set in the late 1800s in the town of Dodge City, Kansas. The show follows the adventures of Marshal Matt Dillon, a fearless lawman tasked with keeping the peace in a town known for its lawlessness.
In season 2 episode 5, titled "Young Man with a Gun," Matt Dillon faces one of his toughest challenges yet when a young gunslinger named Johnny Cross comes to town. Johnny is a skilled marksman with a quick trigger finger, and he's not afraid to use his gun to get what he wants.
At first, Johnny seems harmless enough. He's polite and friendly to everyone he meets, and he even helps out at the local ranch. But Matt Dillon knows better than to trust a stranger with a reputation for gunfighting.
Sure enough, Johnny's true intentions soon become clear. He's in town to kill a man who he believes wronged him in the past. Matt Dillon tries to reason with Johnny, but the young gunslinger is too consumed by his thirst for revenge to listen.
As tensions mount between Johnny and his intended target, Matt Dillon must act fast to prevent a bloody showdown in the streets of Dodge City. He enlists the help of Miss Kitty, the owner of a local saloon, and Doc Adams, the town's physician, to try to diffuse the situation.
Meanwhile, a local boy named Tommy becomes enamored with Johnny and his gunslinging ways. He begins to idolize Johnny and even starts carrying a gun of his own. This worries Matt Dillon, who sees a dangerous pattern emerging.
As the situation between Johnny and his intended victim reaches a boiling point, Matt Dillon is forced to take action. He faces off against Johnny in a tense showdown that could end in either man's death.
The episode explores the themes of justice, vengeance, and the dangers of hero worship. It also showcases Matt Dillon's courage and quick thinking, as he tries to protect the citizens of Dodge City from the potential violence that Johnny poses.
Overall, "Young Man with a Gun" is a gripping episode that highlights the show's excellent writing, talented cast, and thrilling action sequences. It's a must-watch for fans of classic westerns and anyone who enjoys a good old-fashioned showdown at high noon.