Ep 36. The Odyssey of Jubal Tanner

The Odyssey of Jubal Tanner is the thirty-sixth episode of the eighth season of the popular western TV series Gunsmoke. Set in the late 1800s in the frontier town of Dodge City, Kansas, the show follows the adventures of Marshal Matt Dillon, his loyal deputy Festus Hagen, and their friends and foes in the Wild West.

In this particular episode, the focus is on a new character who arrives in town, a wandering old man called Jubal Tanner. Jubal is played by veteran actor Ralph Bellamy, known for his roles in classic films such as The Awful Truth and His Girl Friday. Jubal is a man on a mission, searching for someone he lost years ago and following every lead he can find.

When Jubal starts asking around about his lost loved one, he crosses paths with Matt Dillon and Festus Hagen. Initially, they are suspicious of him and wonder if he is up to no good. However, Jubal proves himself to be a decent man with a tragic backstory. Through flashbacks and conversations with Matt and Festus, we learn about Jubal's life and his quest for redemption.

Jubal's Odyssey takes him on a journey through various parts of Dodge City and beyond. He encounters a band of rowdy cowboys, a kindly old woman who nurses him back to health, and a shady gambler who tries to cheat him out of his money. Throughout his journey, Jubal is guided by his faith and his determination to find the person he is looking for.

Meanwhile, Matt and Festus are kept busy dealing with the various conflicts that arise in Dodge City. They have to break up a brawl at the local saloon, track down a horse thief, and deal with the arrival of a group of ruthless outlaws led by a notorious bandit named Red Norton. Will Matt and Festus be able to keep the peace in Dodge City while Jubal continues his Odyssey? And will Jubal finally find the person he has been searching for?

The episode is notable for its strong performance by Ralph Bellamy, who brings a sense of humanity and vulnerability to his portrayal of Jubal. The character is not just a stereotypical old-timer with a grudge, but a fully realized person with hopes, fears, and regrets. The flashbacks to Jubal's past add depth to the story and provide insight into the character's motives.

The Odyssey of Jubal Tanner is also notable for its effective use of location shooting. The episode features some beautiful scenery, including shots of a river and a wooded area, which add to the sense of naturalism and authenticity that the show is known for. The scenes of Jubal wandering through the wilderness are particularly well done, evoking a sense of both beauty and danger.

Overall, The Odyssey of Jubal Tanner is a strong episode of Gunsmoke that showcases the series' strengths. It has memorable characters, exciting action, and a compelling narrative. It is testament to the enduring appeal of the western genre, and to the enduring legacy of Gunsmoke.