The series doesn't get more colorful than this character-driven rodeo drama. Seems cowboy toughie Del (Johnson) and his buddy (Pickens) love playing dirty tricks on hapless rodeo clown Ollie (Salmi). But no matter how degrading the tricks, Ollie takes it with good humor. But why, especially since he's humiliated in the eyes of trick rider Babe (Totter) whom he'd like to court. She's got her own drinking problems and stays by herself. But why, since she's still attractive and alone in a man's world. Finding out what's motivating their odd behavior forms the story's crux, while interactions among the cast rivet attention.
I love the shoddy Texas setting; it sure ain't uptown Dallas. That rodeo arena's perfect for a third- rate traveling company. But the real draw is country twang experts Pickens and Johnson who know how to shred English grammar. Also, expert actor Salmi fits right in with the yokels. Then too, mustn't forget 40's noir favorite Totter who's no yokel but does her cold-hearted specialty to a T. Together there's enough character color for the whole series.
Near the end, head writer Silliphant gets to indulge his passion for waxing philosophical. Fortunately, it works pretty well within the story framework. Buz and Tod also get to do more than stand around, Buz even packing a wallop. All in all, it's first-rate 66 and a salute to the casting director for his colorful coup.
I love the shoddy Texas setting; it sure ain't uptown Dallas. That rodeo arena's perfect for a third- rate traveling company. But the real draw is country twang experts Pickens and Johnson who know how to shred English grammar. Also, expert actor Salmi fits right in with the yokels. Then too, mustn't forget 40's noir favorite Totter who's no yokel but does her cold-hearted specialty to a T. Together there's enough character color for the whole series.
Near the end, head writer Silliphant gets to indulge his passion for waxing philosophical. Fortunately, it works pretty well within the story framework. Buz and Tod also get to do more than stand around, Buz even packing a wallop. All in all, it's first-rate 66 and a salute to the casting director for his colorful coup.