I give Gunsmoke (black and white, with Chester) a 10-star. Then I give the remaining seasons with Festus a 4-star. So, that comes out to a 7-Star.
Chester (Dennis Weaver) was a huge part of the show's success. Chester's character is so real, and Dennis Weaver is a genius actor. Chester is goofy, yet serious. He never carries a gun, but is right there to use one if the situation calls for it. He is child like, but likes to drink and loves flirting with pretty girls. Not to mention that he plays the guitar and sings. Further, the touch of friendly antagonism with Chester and Doc seems genuine and entertaining.
When Festus came on the scene, the show went downhill, in my opinion. Festus is just too over-the-top. His scruffy appearance got old after a while, and his constant whining became irritating. Festus tried to replicate the friendly antagonism that Chester had with Doc, but could not pull it off; always looked fake to me.
If you have the opportunity to watch the Chester Gunsmokes, do so....they are great!
Chester (Dennis Weaver) was a huge part of the show's success. Chester's character is so real, and Dennis Weaver is a genius actor. Chester is goofy, yet serious. He never carries a gun, but is right there to use one if the situation calls for it. He is child like, but likes to drink and loves flirting with pretty girls. Not to mention that he plays the guitar and sings. Further, the touch of friendly antagonism with Chester and Doc seems genuine and entertaining.
When Festus came on the scene, the show went downhill, in my opinion. Festus is just too over-the-top. His scruffy appearance got old after a while, and his constant whining became irritating. Festus tried to replicate the friendly antagonism that Chester had with Doc, but could not pull it off; always looked fake to me.
If you have the opportunity to watch the Chester Gunsmokes, do so....they are great!