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The only problem I have with the making of a "Rifleman" movie is that Hollywood just can't seem to make a good Western anymore, IMHO. They get all caught up in the "touchy-feely" metrosexual male, dealing with feelings of loneliness and heartbreak and fear. They would probably have subplots of Lucas struggling with alcoholism, adultery, the anguish of using his Rifle against another human being, post-traumatic stress syndrome from the Civil War, etc, etc. (Oh yes, I almost forgot: Hollywood would somehow work in the obligatory "racism" subplot).

Frankly, I think Lucas would end up being emasculated by today's Hollywood and the Rifle would be somewhat demonized.

In the TV show, Lucas occasionally displayed his inner feelings and certain issues (e.g. his loneliness) were addressed, but overall Lucas was always strong and forthright. He was a "man's man", dealing with his demons, raising his son, reading his Bible, using lethal force when necessary, etc. But by today's Hollywood, Lucas would not be allowed to be the classic manly cowboy because that would threaten the Hollywood agenda. This tough father-and-son story set in the Western era would be complicated and softened beyond recognition of what we all know and love about "The Rifleman".

If that's the case, well, thanks but no thanks.

On the other hand, if the script is written in homage to the original series and directed in a Sam Peckinpah style, well I would love to see it! However, the reality is that if it is done in that fashion, today's critics will absolutely hate it. The critics will criticize the gun violence, the moral message, and the portrayal of the traditional roles of men and women and children in the Old West. The critics and Hollywood would rather rewrite history by the barometer of today's social conscience than to portray it realistically.

So I don't see this project as being plausible. Although I love the series, I don't think any Rifleman movie made in today's social climate would stand a chance. Sorry!