This Classic Sci-Fi Western Got A Bad Movie Reboot But Deserves A Television Revival

The classic Western television series, The Wild Wild West, had a troubled foray into the movies in the 90s. Despite a star-studded cast including Will Smith and Kevin Kline, the film flopped with critics and viewers. Budgeted at over $170 million, the movie seemed more concerned with special effects than crafting a coherent plot. A major critique was the excessive use of special effects, which detracted from the story and failed to capture the essence of the show.

However, the potential for a television revival of The Wild Wild West remains strong. The original series was such a hit because it masterfully blended multiple genres, fusing the classic Western setting with futuristic science fiction elements. From gadgets to high-tech trains like the Wanderer, the show's unique approach set it apart from traditional Westerns.

The show's success also hinged on its diverse roster of villains, often brought to life by guest stars such as Agnes Moorehead, Ed Asner, and Harvey Korman. This diverse cast not only enhanced the show's appeal but also allowed for a wide range of storylines to be explored. The success of contemporary shows like Poker Face and Elsbeth further indicates that this approach could work well in modern television.

Thus, if a revival of The Wild Wild West were to be made, it would be advisable to maintain the small screen format and capitalize on the show's original strengths. By sticking to the blended genres and employing a diverse cast of villains, the revival could capture the spirit of the original series and achieve a much-needed successful outcome.