Episode Summary

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8.4
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EPISODE RATING: Great
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While in the bank, Ben and Hoss are caught in a robbery by the Morgan gang. Ben gets shot but manages to take down one of Morgan's brothers. Leader Carl Morgan vows to avenge his death and the town cowers in fear. This leaves only Ben, Hoss, a drunk and a visiting doctor to defend the town against the Morgans.moreless
  • The "High Noon" episode.

    7.5
    "Good"
    Add a ticking clock, and routine drama becomes suspense. It's a plot element that's still valid today, although at times, the ticking clock is a hack writer's prop that provides the only real drama in an otherwise bland script. But, there other times when the time element is used well, and the sense of urgency propels the story forward.

    The countdown clock is used effectively here. Time is very relevant in this episode, as Hoss and Joe prepare for the showdown. Preparations must be made, and allies found for the upcoming battle. Once again, we see how those who know the Cartwrights actually feel about them...a couple of ineffective strangers are the only volunteers to help the outnumbered Cartwrights.

    Contrary to Hoss's dimwitted nature that appears in several previous episodes, it's up to Hoss to organize the planned defense as Ben recovers from his wound, and Hoss mostly delivers.

    Overall, the episode is well paced, and the acting is perfect--very well directed. Ben's final showdown at the end is great gun-down scene (perhaps only Sergio Leone could have improved upon it), but there's no elation in the victory...this is a typically nihilist first season ending. And that's good...too much blood has been spilled for anyone, including the viewer, to be cheering.moreless
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