Ep 5. True West

In the fifth episode of the first season of Stephen Fry in America, titled True West, the host Stephen Fry takes us on a journey through the American West. From the deserts of Arizona to the mountains of Utah, Fry explores the history, culture, and people of this unique region of the United States.

The episode starts with Fry visiting the Grand Canyon, one of the most iconic natural wonders of the world. He is amazed by the sheer size and beauty of the canyon, and he talks to park rangers about the geological and cultural history of the area. Fry also learns about the different Native American tribes that lived in the region, and he speaks to members of the Navajo and Hopi tribes about their traditional way of life and their struggle to maintain their culture in the modern world.

Next, Fry travels to Monument Valley, one of the most famous film locations in the world. He talks to a local Navajo guide who takes him on a tour of the valley and shows him some of the famous movie locations, including the site where John Ford filmed his classic westerns. Fry learns about the importance of the valley to the Navajo people and their efforts to protect it from development and exploitation.

From there, Fry travels to Utah and visits the town of Kanab, which is known as the "Hollywood of the West" because of its long history of serving as a filming location for western movies and TV shows. Fry talks to local residents who have worked as extras or crew members on some of the most famous westerns in film history, including John Wayne's The Searchers and the TV show Gunsmoke. Fry also visits the Little Hollywood Museum, which is dedicated to the history of westerns and the actors and filmmakers who made them.

Fry then takes a break from the history and culture of the American West to do some outdoor activities. He goes on a horseback ride through the beautiful landscapes of the area and even tries his hand at cattle herding, which he finds to be a lot harder than he expected.

The episode ends with Fry visiting the town of Silver City, New Mexico, where he learns about the history of the Wild West and the legends of outlaws like Billy the Kid and Jesse James. Fry talks to a local historian who tells him about the gunfights and shootouts that made the town famous in the late 1800s. Fry also visits a local bar and participates in a gun-slinging contest with some of the regulars, which he finds to be a lot of fun.

Overall, True West is a fascinating exploration of the history, culture, and people of the American West. Fry's curiosity and wit make for an engaging and informative viewing experience, and viewers will come away with a newfound appreciation for this unique region of the United States.