The Best Western Television Series of All Time: A Personal Top 5

Westerns, a television genre that has captivated audiences with its tales of the Wild West, have left an indelible mark on popular culture. With impactful storylines that explore themes such as justice, morality, and the clash between civilization and the untamed frontier, these shows often transport us back to a bygone era. In this article, we will explore a selection of Western television series that have stood the test of time and remain some of the best in the genre.

1. Wild Wild West (1965-1969)

If you are talking about television series, it has to be Wild Wild West. The original series is a cut above any of the movie versions and far more interesting than other contemporary westerns. Set in the late 19th century, it combines elements of the traditional Western with the spy genre, all enlivened with steampunk aesthetics and fantastic writing. The show stars Robert Conrad as agent Wild Bill Coyne, a secret agent, and Ross Martin as Gene Autry, a cowboy-turned-spymaster.

Although Robert Conrad’s acting skills may not be outstanding, he compensates for it with his classic leading-man looks and enough panache to carry the show. The vibrant costuming and the clever writing make for an engaging viewing experience. Some of the best villains are written in the show, and episodes like those featuring Michael Dunn as a character named Dr. Miguelito Quixote Loveless are particularly thrilling. These episodes are a testament to the show’s imaginative storytelling and are a tremendous fun to watch.

2. The Seven Samurai (1954)

Though The Seven Samurai is a film and not a television series, it has had a profound influence on Westerns. Director Akira Kurosawa’s film is a masterpiece that pays homage to various Western influences, as Kurosawa himself made these films in acknowledgment of American Westerns. The Samurai become the story's "hired guns" in a range war, much like the heroes of many Westerns. This film is not Western, but it is as Western as anything else, and it is superb.

3. Gunsmoke (1955-1975)

Gunsmoke is a classic series that follows Inspector Matt Dillon as he solves crimes in Dodge City. While some viewers may be put off by Matt Dillon's tendency to shoot people, there is a charm to this show. The series is set in the 1870s and is known for its strong characters and captivating stories. Special mention goes to Dennis Weaver, who plays the character of Shane O'Neil, an alcoholic private detective who is a former cavalry scout.

Gunsmoke also offers a visual feast with its stunning scenery and production values, making it a great show to watch. Not to mention, the show's creators and writers were hugely influential in shaping the Western genre, and audiences were captivated by its blend of myth and reality.

4. Deadwood (2004-2006)

Deadwood takes the Western genre to a new level. Adapted from the historical town of Deadwood, South Dakota, in the 1870s, the show is praised for its superb writing, acting, and storytelling. Created by David Milch and executive produced by Tom Cruise, this show is a visual feast that captures the hustle, greed, and sexism that defined the time while also capturing the grit and adventures of life in the wild frontier.

The show's narrative delves into the complexities of the early American West, with characters such as Al Swearengen and Teddy Hartman representing the conflicting values of the Wild West and the doctrines of civilization. While it may be set in the past, Deadwood comments harshly on the cost of civilization and the violence inherent in its rise, making it both a historical drama and a provocative commentary on modern society.

5. Justified (2010-2015)

Justified is a modern Western that tells the story of Raylan Givens, a US Deputy Marshal who returns to his hometown in Kentucky after a stint in Miami. The show is a blend of classic Western narratives and contemporary crime drama. The series stars Timothy Olyphant as Deputy Marshal Raylan Givens, a man who is as dangerous as he is charismatic, someone who can be as deadly as a cobra, and always ready to extract a price for his actions.

With its strong characters, excellent performances, and engaging plotlines, Justified is a thrilling series. The show is a masterpiece of storytelling, as it weaves its tale of justice, vice, and the human condition. Givens is a complex character, and his interactions with the other characters, especially those of the Dixie Mob, are tense and filled with danger. The show's creators have crafted a story that is both a tribute to the classic Western genre and a bold new direction for the modern crime drama.

In conclusion, these Western television series are not just regurgitations of the past but visionary masterpieces that continue to inspire and captivate audiences around the world. Each one offers a unique and compelling perspective on the Western genre, and they all have something to teach us about the dark and exciting aspects of the Wild West.