The Wackiest Wagon Train in the West

The Wackiest Wagon Train in the West is a 1976 comedy film that follows the hilarious misadventures of a group of travelers as they journey across the Wild West. The film stars Bob Denver as the bumbling, yet lovable wagon master, Forrest Tucker as the gruff trail boss, and Ivor Francis as the wealthy Englishman who hopes to make it to California to claim his inheritance.

The film begins with an eccentric businessman, Theodore Ogelvie (Denver), who has been tasked with leading a wagon train from Missouri to California. Ogelvie is joined by an eclectic group of travelers, including a pair of runaway sisters, a pair of bickering newlyweds, a traveling salesman, and a group of nuns led by Mother Superior (played by legendary TV and film actress, Imogene Coca).

As the wagon train gets underway, it becomes clear that Ogelvie is not exactly the most competent wagon master. He struggles to keep the wagons on course and is constantly getting lost, much to the dismay of Tucker's trail boss character, who is tasked with keeping the group safe from danger.

Despite his shortcomings, Ogelvie is determined to keep the group moving forward, even when they encounter various obstacles along the way. From hostile Native Americans to treacherous terrain, the group faces a number of challenges that lead to some truly hilarious moments.

One of the standout scenes in the film takes place when the wagon train crosses a river that has been contaminated by a nearby mine. The water turns everyone who enters it a bright blue color, leading to some riotous sight gags as the group tries to clean themselves up.

The film also features some great comedic performances from its talented cast. Denver, in particular, shines as the hapless Ogelvie, who always seems to be in over his head. Tucker, meanwhile, brings a gruff charm to his role as the tough-as-nails trail boss.

But it's not just the main cast who brings the laughs. The film is full of memorable supporting performances, including a hilarious turn by Don Knotts as a bumbling sheriff and the aforementioned Coca as the stern Mother Superior.

Overall, The Wackiest Wagon Train in the West is a fun, lighthearted comedy that is perfect for fans of classic films like The Great Race and It's a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World. With its colorful characters, slapstick humor, and charming performances, it's a film that is sure to bring a smile to the faces of audiences both young and old.