The Shakiest Gun in the West (1968)
Jesse W. Haywood (Don Knotts) graduates from dental school in Philadelphia in 1870 and goes west to become a frontier dentist. Penelope "Bad Penny" Cushing (Barbara Rhoades) is offered a pardon if she will track down a ring of gun smugglers. She tricks Haywood into a sham marriage as a disguise. Haywood inadvertently becomes the legendary "Doc the Haywood" after he guns down "Arnold the Kid".
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I remember when "The Shakiest Gun In The West" was released, and as a kid, I took Don Knotts for granted, because he was on every day on reruns of "The Andy Griffith Show." I'll admit that I was not a fan of his.That said, this was an enjoyable outing. While I understand this was a remake of a Bob Hope Western comedy, what stuck out for me was how this played, in part, like a late-1960s episode of "Wagon Train," especially with Terry Wilson and Frank McGrath present. In fact, this was the final appearance of Mr. McGrath, who died 18 months or so before the film's release. Mr. McGrath's passing was a real loss, as he added something very special.And then there was Barbara Rhoades! I first saw her in "Harry and Tonto" (1974), and her presence adds something special. As for Don Knotts, I do understand his presence and his appeal for many. While it is not so easy for me to connect, I will put the blame on myself for that one, because Mr. Knotts is good at what he did! Anyway, it is well worth a watch!
Don Knotts star in this wacky comedy/western.Knotts plays a Philadelphia Dentist who head west to bring oral hygiene.he gets more than he bargained for,in the process.Dr. Jesse Heywood's penchant for being timid nervous,and bumbling provide some pretty funny moments.Knotts is pretty funny here,but i really Barbara Rhoades as Penny.i loved her spunky,and her take no guff attitude.she is the perfect foil for Knott's Zaniness.while this movie won't change your life,it should make you laugh.even if it wasn't funny,i think it would still work as just a western.for me,The Shakiest Gun in the West is a 7/10
Knotts at his inept best as a bumbling dentist who is taken in at every turn by swindlers, gun runners, and a conniving lady outlaw. I liked the use of 2 regular players on "Wagon Train" as members of Knotts party. I didn't like Myron Healy being uncredited.
I saw this movie,by accident.It reminded me a lot,of the book,The Puppy Who Lost his Way.It was filled with well written classic comedy,that I can only see Mr. Knotts performing. The boy,being society.I think it was followed in spirit by other films further down the line.Funny Farm,and it's own references to a miss-adventures in an element that is not ones own. I give it four and a half stars on a scale of five.Two thumbs up,fine holiday fun.....