Ep 14. Never Trust an Honest Man

Alias Smith and Jones, set in the late 19th century Western frontier, follows the exploits of two reformed outlaws, Hannibal Heyes, alias Joshua Smith, and his partner, Jedediah 'Kid' Curry, alias Thaddeus Jones. They are attempting to reform and earn amnesty from their criminal pasts by avoiding trouble and living under these assumed names. Governor L. W. P. Hunt has promised them a conditional pardon, provided they can show that they're now law-abiding citizens—a premise that serves as the heart of the show's narrative tension and humor. Now let's delve into the world of Alias Smith and Jones with a synopsis of season 1, episode 14, Never Trust an Honest Man.

As the fourteenth episode unfolds, Heyes and Curry find themselves in yet another precarious situation that tests their commitment to their straight and narrow path. The episode begins with the familiar scene of the duo riding into another dusty town, trying to keep low profiles. They've honed the art of blending in, but as is often the case in their adventures, trouble has a way of finding them.

On this occasion, the pair, known for their charm and quick wits, becomes entangled with an enigmatic character who claims to be an honest man. The irony isn't lost on the outlaws-turned-would-be-gentlemen, as they know all too well that honesty is a relative term in the Wild West. This newcomer weaves an intriguing tale, convincing Heyes and Curry to join him on what appears to be a legitimate venture.

As they embark on their shared endeavor, the 'honest man' proves to be a charismatic and cunning individual, expertly navigating the social and business circles of the town. Heyes and Curry are cautious but intrigued by their new acquaintance's methods, witnessing firsthand how he wins the trust of the local populace. However, there are layers to this character, hints of a hidden agenda, and the partners must ascertain his true intentions before they find themselves on the wrong side of their provisional amnesty—or worse, the law.

This particular episode showcases Heyes and Curry's struggle with trust, a commodity as scarce as it is valuable in their uncertain world. As they become further involved in the scheme, they begin to detect discrepancies and inconsistencies in the so-called honest man's story. Their instincts suggest that they should steer clear, yet the potential rewards, if the plan is on the up and up, might be too tempting to pass up.

The relationship dynamics take center stage, with Heyes and Curry's remarkable chemistry adding depth to every scene. The former outlaws navigate their partnership with a nuanced understanding of each other's strengths and shortcomings. They work together seamlessly, whether in a tense negotiation, a high-stakes game of poker, or while devising an escape plan when their involvement starts to draw unwanted attention.

The episode brings a blend of suspense, comedy, and character development. The humor is dry and well-timed, often emerging from the banter between the leads or from the situations in which they find themselves inadvertently entwined. Yet, there's an ongoing tension as the audience is left wondering how Heyes and Curry will extricate themselves from their predicament without jeopardizing their freedom.

As with other episodes of Alias Smith and Jones, Never Trust an Honest Man is set against the backdrop of the picturesque but perilous landscape of the American West. The cinematography captures the vastness of the setting, which is both a refuge and a danger zone for our heroes. The score, a combination of lively and poignant themes, punctuates the action and underscores the personal journey of the protagonists.

This episode, like the series as a whole, continues to delve into the themes of redemption, friendship, and the question of whether a reputation, once sullied, can ever truly be restored. It pushes Heyes and Curry to reflect on their past lives as outlaws and the future they hope to secure. The allure of the old ways is strong, but their desire to reform is stronger, creating a perpetual internal conflict that drives their development as characters.

With Never Trust an Honest Man, Alias Smith and Jones maintains its position as a beloved exemplar of the Western genre, offering a remarkable blend of action, charm, and thoughtful storytelling. Heyes and Curry's latest venture in this episode further cements their legacy as two of the most memorable outlaws in television history, continually striving to outrun their shadowy pasts under the glow of the vast Western sky.