Colt .45: The Complete Series (1957-1960) [Warner Archive Blu-ray review]

“Colt .45” is an American Western series that aired on ABC from 1957 to 1960 as part of the network’s “Warner Bros. Presents” wheel, which also included shows like “Cheyenne,” “Maverick,” and “Bronco.” The series was named after the Colt .45 revolver and was loosely based on a 1950 Warner Bros. film of the same name. The show featured Wayde Preston as Christopher Colt, who masquerades as a gun salesman but is in reality a government agent tasked with maintaining law and order in the turbulent West.

Colt .45 could have been a Rick Dalton show

The series follows a fairly episodic format, typical of the television Westerns of the time, with Preston’s character traveling from town to town under the guise of selling firearms while actually combating various villains and threats. Each episode presents a new set of challenges for Colt to navigate, allowing for diverse stories and guest characters that kept the series fresh and engaging for viewers.

Who is Christopher Colt?

Christopher Colt, as portrayed by Wayde Preston, is crafted as a calm, intelligent, and just hero—a man of few words but decisive action. Unlike some gunfighters of Western lore, Colt is a more nuanced character, often relying on his wits and deception as a government agent rather than brute force. The series occasionally delves into Colt’s background and personal life, though the primary focus remains on his adventures and encounters.

The development of recurring and guest characters also adds depth to the series, with many episodes featuring complex antagonists and allies who contribute to the moral and narrative complexities of the stories. These characters often reflect the diverse makeup of the American frontier, from outlaws and corrupt officials to struggling settlers and indigenous peoples.

1950s Westerns are a trip

“Colt .45” explores a variety of themes relevant to American society in the 1950s, reflecting the nation’s fascination with the mythic Old West as a place of moral simplicity and rugged individualism. Themes such as justice, redemption, and the battle between good and evil are common, providing a backdrop for broader discussions about law, order, and ethics. The series also touches on themes of identity, with the protagonist leading a double life, which adds an element of psychological complexity to the otherwise straightforward Western plot.

The look and production of Colt .45

The production values of “Colt .45” are typical of mid-century television Westerns, with relatively modest sets and straightforward cinematography. The series makes effective use of outdoor locations to capture the expansive landscapes synonymous with the Western genre, adding a visual breadth that enhances the storytelling. Action sequences, including gunfights and horseback chases, are staged with the dramatic flair expected of the genre, though constrained by the budgetary and technological limits of the time.

“Colt .45” contributed to the popularity of the Western genre during its golden age on American television. It is part of a larger cultural phenomenon that includes not only TV shows but also films, books, and later, video games that romanticize the American frontier. While it may not have achieved the iconic status of “Gunsmoke” or “Bonanza,” the series is remembered for its unique twist on the Western hero archetype and its place within the Warner Bros. array of Western series.

Some final thoughts on Colt .45

“Colt .45” represents an important piece of American television history, offering a distinctive take on the Western genre through its blend of action, drama, and moral storytelling. Wayde Preston’s portrayal of Christopher Colt adds a layer of intrigue and depth to the character, setting the series apart from its contemporaries. While the series may adhere to many conventions of its genre, its exploration of themes such as justice, identity, and morality resonate beyond its era, making “Colt .45” a noteworthy series for both historical and entertainment value.

Colt .45 gets a stunning Blu-ray from Warner Archive

Colt .45 The Complete Series is a big deal because of that stunning 4K restoration. Apparently, Warner Archive has a ton of vintage TV series coming to Blu-ray for the first time. Did this release set a staggering precedent for what is to come? I’d venture to say Yes, but with a caveat. I think the reason this looks so good is because the series was difficult to find for ages.

Plus, it’s not like 1950s TV westerns are setting the world on fire currently. The DTS-HD 2.0 mono track is clean and supportive for the release. Still, I’d recommend a purchase to Western fans.