This is another one of many television series from the 1950s and 1960s that is awaiting an official studio release. Were it not for "public domain" releases like this three-episode, single-disc DVD from Alpha Video, we might not be able to see some of the television classics from TV's "golden age" on DVD. So, in this regard, I appreciate the fact that at least a few episodes are available. As to the episodes themselves, the three included here are all from the 1960s when John McIntire starred as Wagonmaster Chris Hale. They include "The Doctor Denker Story," "The Malachai Hobart Story," and "Alias Bill Hawks." These episodes, either alone or in various combinations, have been available on a few Western TV compilations, but this is one of the very few DVDs where you can get all three of them on a single disc. While none of these are particularly standout episodes, they are representative of the series and include a few guest stars like Theodore Bikel and Franchot Tone. Look for Irene Ryan of "The Beverly Hillbillies" in "The Malachi Hobart Story."
The episodes on Alpha's DVD, though not restored, are of decent audio/visual quality. It remains to be seen as to whether or not we'll ever see an official release of the "Wagon Train" series. As such, I recommend this DVD for fans of the series.
All I can say is: It's about time Clint Walker's Cheyenne has come to DVD- too long a wait. All 3 episodes were very good picks. Top quality reproduction. I can tell they are all complete. A lot of people have forgotten in the series closing seasons, Cheyenne became "The Cheyenne Show" which first rotated Cheyenne one week and Bronco the next instead of them having their own weekly shows. Even Sugarfoot was added I believe in the final year. This DVD is great and I strongly suggest that complete seasons of this series be released onto DVD A.S.A.P. I rate this disc as a great sampler. Clint Walker has been well remembered by me as one of the top western heroes of the late "50's-'60's era, and the series western stories are timeless. Bring them on. More Info about this DVD Director(s): Leslie H. Martinson - George Waggner - Irving J. Moore - James P. Yarbrough - Herbert L. Strock DVD Release Date: Released the 27 September 2005 Usually ships in 24 hours
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Another great western series that is long overdo for DVD release. The 3 episodes picked were very good and in top quality. However this series would be best sold in complete season sets like most other tv shows are being released today A.S.A.P. There are too many great episodes not to release them in seasons. I rate this disc as a great sampler. More Info about this DVD Director(s): Leslie H. Martinson - Howard W. Koch - Charles F. Haas - Leslie Goodwins - Robert Gordon DVD Release Date: Released the 27 September 2005 Usually ships in 24 hours
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