The Best of Bonanza, Vol. 1 (1959) Review

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(More customer reviews)This set contains eight episodes on three DVDs -- five from the first season and one each from the third, fourth and fifth -- that show the broad range of this series that ran from September of 1959 through January of 1973. All of these are family fare and can stimulate good discussions with children about moral issues we all face (even if not as dramatically), or can be enjoyed simply as good entertainment.
The DVDs are of good quality, and as they are licensed, contain all the scenes, all of the original music, and all of the artwork from the credits, unlike many other DVDs and VHS tapes of Bonanza episodes.
1 - Mr. Henry Comstock. The second episode filmed, this is the humorous story of the arrival and impact of Henry Comstock on the future Virginia City. Guest star Jack Carson. From season one, originally aired November 7, 1959. aka "The Henry Comstock Story"
2 - Death on Sun Mountain. Based on actual incidents, a merchant tries to corner the meat market in Virginia City by selling antelope meat to the miners for outrageous prices. When the Cartwrights begin selling cattle as an alternative, the merchant stirs up trouble with the Paiutes. Written by Gene L. Coon and David Dortort; guest star Barry Sullivan. From season one; originally aired September 19, 1959. aka "The Sun Mountain Herd"
3 - The Saga of Annie O'Toole. Based on the story of Eilley Orrum and her future husband, Sandy Bowers. In a light-hearted episode, Adam helps Annie get legal claim to one of two of Swede Lundberg's silver mines. Written by Thomas Thompson, guest stars Ida Lupino and Alan Hale. From season one; originally aired October 24, 1959.
4 - Paiute War. Based on the actual conflict between the Paiutes and the white settlers in May and June of 1860. The Cartwrights get involved when Adam is captured and held hostage by Chief Winnemucca. Written by Gene L. Coon; guest stars Jack Warden, Anthony Caruso, and Michael Forest. From season one; originally aired October 3, 1959.
5 - Enter Mark Twain. Samuel Clemens arrives in Virginia City to write for the Territorial Enterprise (factual) and stirs up trouble with his wild tales. Written by Harold Shumate; guest star Howard Duff. From season one; originally aired October 10, 1959.
6 - The Crucible. Left in the desert to die by thieves, Adam is befriended by Peter Kane, who gradually reveals himself to be a madman. One of the most gripping episodes of the entire 14-year run, Dortort had this episode written and cast to challenge Pernell Roberts, who turned in one of the best performances of his career. Written by John T. Dugan; guest star Lee Marvin. From season three; originally aired April 8, 1962.
7 - Any Friend of Walter's. In one of the funniest episodes, Hoss and prospector Obie are helped to escape from incompetent robbers by Obie's amazing dog, Walter. Written by Lois Hire; guest star Arthur Hunnicutt. From season four; originally aired March 24, 1963.
8 - Bullet For A Bride. Little Joe proposes to a girl he accidentally shot and blinded. Written by Tay Garnett; guest stars Marlyn Mason and Denver Pyle. From season five; originally aired February 16, 1964.


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