Lock ‘n’ Load

Lock ‘n’ Load is a hidden camera reality TV series that is based out of a gun shop in Colorado.  The show is centered on the gun shop proprietor Josh T. Ryan.  He interjects himself into every story and casually interviews each customer.  The show attempts to personify each gun owner and provides a background for each purchase.  The show is marketed as a comedy but I found myself rarely laughing.

 Josh T. Ryan is the host of the show and is too frequently involved in each story.  In the later episodes there are personalized interviews with the customers without the host.  These interviews are far more thought provoking; as they contextualize the customer’s story as to what made them purchase a gun. The show needs to incorporate more of the customer and less of the host. Audiences are far more likely to identify with a common person than a caricature.

 The Showtime produced reality show remains apolitical.  I was astounded that a show with this subject matter works without a political agenda.  This for me was one of the only highlights.  I found myself unable to connect with the subject matter and the host.  Josh T. Ryan is too cognizant of the camera and it disrupts the exchanges with the customers. The cultural gap is too vast for me.      

Video       

 Lock ‘n’ Load is presented in 2.35:1 anamorphic widescreen.  The transfer looks clean and all of the images are clear.  The colors are surprisingly bright for a hidden camera show.  Some of the interviews have a sepia tone filter. However, I am merely splitting hairs.  The images are serviceable.

Audio

 The 5.1 Dolby Surround sound is a basic mix.  There is no immersion whatsoever. The dialogue is clear and audible.  For a show that relies entirely on conversation, the number one priority is clear dialogue and this mix provides that.     

Special Features

Nothing at all. 

Final Thoughts

 The cultural gap that exists between gun owners and non gun owners is vast.  I am a member of the latter and this show fails to bridge any gap between the two.  If the show subtracted significant portions of the host and relied on more of the customer experiences, it may have faired better.