Ep 10. The Queue

Marshal Matt Dillon is the lawman responsible for keeping the peace in the town of Dodge City, in the Kansas Territory. In Gunsmoke season 1 episode 10, entitled "The Queue," Matt is tasked with dealing with a group of people who have come to town seeking work and a better life. The group is made up of immigrants, who have traveled from far and wide to find opportunity in the new land.

The episode begins with Matt observing the arrival of the immigrants in town. He is immediately suspicious of some of the men, particularly those from Europe who have long queues of hair hanging from their heads. Many of the townsfolk speculate that these men are troublemakers, and that they are responsible for the recent upswing in theft and violence in the area.

Matt is reluctant to jump to conclusions, instead taking a measured approach to the situation. He meets with the immigrants and learns that many of them are highly skilled workers, who have traveled from Europe to seek permission to work in the new world. However, he also discovers that some of them have been turned away from other towns, due to their long hair and foreign accents. As a result, they are desperate and impoverished, and are willing to do whatever it takes to find work and provide for their families.

As tensions rise between the newcomers and the townsfolk, Matt strives to maintain order. He tries to find work for the immigrants, while also persuading the locals to see them as human beings, rather than as threats to their way of life. Meanwhile, an antagonist from Matt's past returns to town, further complicating matters.

The episode is notable for its exploration of themes such as racism, xenophobia, and the American Dream. It focuses on the struggles faced by new immigrants as they try to carve out a place for themselves in a new land. In doing so, it reflects the anxieties and uncertainties of the era in which it was produced (the late 1950s).

The acting in the episode is uniformly strong, with James Arness turning in a typically stoic and authoritative performance as Matt Dillon. The supporting cast is also excellent, with guest stars such as Lili Darvas and Michael Ansara adding depth and nuance to their roles.

Overall, Gunsmoke season 1 episode 10 is a gripping and thought-provoking installment in the long-running series. It deals with timely issues that remain relevant today, while also showcasing the talents of its cast and crew. Whether you are a fan of Westerns or just enjoy quality drama, this episode is well worth your time.