Maybe we are only talking about Television series, in which case, this is completely invalid, but one thing that hasnt been mentioned is Star Wars -- which, i think we can all agree was a pioneering set of films (the original versions, of course)

And really, in alot of ways, it was the original space western. Firefly is wonderful and totally unique, but at the same time, everytime I watch Serenity land on some dusty planet, I cant help but think of Tatooine; Mos Eisly reminds me so much of the docks on Persephone.

I think one of the most interesting things about the Firefly/Serenity verse is that, even though its Sci/fi, there seem to be no aliens or alien forms of life -- everything is completely, utterly human and mundane; and there is no reason that it could never actually happen.

The dichotomies inherent in the Firefly verse also make it something special. The stylised old west/space frontier is not as jarring as one might think, and really almost makes logical sense, if you believe the addage that the frontier molds man before man can mold the frontier. Add to that the ineresting exchange between old east and west cultures, and you got yourself something truly interesting.

All in all, I see star wars as a huge inspiration for firefly -- down to Han Solo's pants -- but I think Joss Whedon took those elements of Star Wars and made something great from them; I just wish there was more. :(

so. there my strangely long discussion. it probably makes very little sense.