Reviving the Wild West: Exploring 21st-Century Western Movies
From 3:10 to Yuma to No Country for Old Men, the Western is alive and wild in modern cinema.
The Western has a storied history that dates back to the early days of cinema. From the daring tales of outlaws and lawmen to the vast landscapes of the American frontier, Western movies have captured hearts and minds for decades.
While the genre experienced its heyday during the mid-20th century with untouchable directors like John Ford and Sergio Leone, the last two decades continue to breathe new life into these iconic narratives. Modern filmmakers have taken the classic elements of the Western and reimagined them, blending and, in some cases, overturning traditional themes with contemporary storytelling techniques and modern issues.
We will embark on a journey through the rugged terrain of 21st-century Western movies, exploring how directors, actors, and creative minds are revitalizing the genre for a new generation of viewers.
Saddle up, cinematic cowboys, as we dive into the untamed frontier of contemporary Westerns!
Traditional Westerns
These Westerns attempt to recapture the heyday of the genre and Old West.
True Grit (2010) - Joel & Ethan Coen
IMDb: 7.6/10
Rotten Tomatoes:
Critics - 96% | Audience - 85%
True Grit is a Western film that follows the determined young Mattie Ross (Hailee Steinfeld) as she seeks justice for her father's murder. With a stubborn spirit, Mattie hires the tough U.S. Marshal Rooster Cogburn (Jeff Bridges) to track down the killer, Tom Chaney, in Indian Territory. Accompanied by a Texas Ranger named LaBoeuf (Matt Damon), they form an unlikely trio in pursuit of Chaney. The journey is filled with danger, courage and the growth of unexpected bonds, as they confront both the rugged landscapes and their own personal demons.
The Coen Brothers' adaptation of True Grit is faithful to the source material while injecting their unique style and wit. The cinematography and direction captured the essence of the Old West, delivering a gripping and visually stunning narrative. In my humble opinion, it surpasses the original 1969 film starring the titan of Western film John Wayne.
3:10 to Yuma (2007) - James Mangold
IMDb: 7.7/10
Rotten Tomatoes:
Critics - 89% | Audience - 85%
3:10 to Yuma is a modern remake of a classic Western film and short story by Elmore Leonard. The story, retold by James Mangold, follows Dan Evans (Christian Bale), a struggling rancher and Civil War veteran, who agrees to escort captured outlaw Ben Wade (Russell Crowe) to the town of Contention, where he will be put on a train to the prison in Yuma. As they journey through dangerous territory, a deadly game of cat and mouse unfolds between the determined rancher and the charismatic outlaw.
The film explores honor, redemption, and the struggle between right and wrong as both men confront their pasts and make life-altering choices. The short story is best, but Mangold brings it to life on the big screen. It is entertaining and thought-provoking.
The Magnificent Seven (2016) - Antoine Fuqua
IMDb: 6.9/10
Rotten Tomatoes:
Critics - 64% | Audience - 71%
The modern remake of The Magnificent Seven, which itself was inspired by Akira Kurosawa's Seven Samurai, is entertaining and features a star-studded cast including Denzel Washington, Chris Pratt, Ethan Hawke, Vincent D'Onofrio, Byung-hun Lee, Manuel Garcia-Rulfo and Martin Sensmeier as the Seven.
The story follows a small, struggling town called Rose Creek under the ruthless control of industrialist Bartholomew Bogue (Peter Sarsgaard). In desperation, the townspeople hire a diverse group of seven skilled and honorable gunmen to defend their homes.
I am going to be straight with you. Go watch the classic 1960 film with Yul Brynner, Charles Bronson, Steve McQueen and Eli Wallach. It is better! The Magnificent Seven (2016) is a fun time, and the action is entertaining, but it will never live up to its predecessor.
Low Westerns
When I think of low Westerns in the 21st-Century, they are the movies that strike me as “kicking and a-gouging in the mud and the blood and the beer.” These films may deviate from the high, epic Westerns starring John Wayne and Gary Cooper, but they capture something old and familiar. You never doubt you are watching a Western!
Django Unchained (2012) - Quentin Tarantino
IMDb: 8.5/10
Rotten Tomatoes:
Critics - 87% | Audience - 92%
Django Unchained is a gripping and stylized Western film set in the pre-Civil War American South. The story follows Django (Jamie Foxx), a freed slave turned bounty hunter, and Dr. King Schultz (Christoph Waltz), a German bounty hunter who helps Django find his wife, Broomhilda (Kerry Washington), who is enslaved on a brutal Mississippi plantation owned by the sadistic Calvin Candie (Leonardo DiCaprio).
The duo devises a dangerous plan to rescue Broomhilda, leading them into the heart of the plantation's violent and racist world. The film explores themes of racism, revenge, and the brutality of slavery while delivering Quentin Tarantino's signature blend of dark humor, memorable dialogue and, of course, bombastic blood and violence.
I love Django Unchained! It is brutal, witty, wildly entertaining and features an amazing soundtrack filled with everything from Ennio Morricone’s classics to Jim Croce’s “I Got a Name.” In true Tarantino fashion, the final shootout does not disappoint.
The Sisters Brothers (2018) - Jacques Audiard
IMDb: 7.0/10
Rotten Tomatoes:
Critics - 85% | Audience - 65%
The Sisters Brothers is a darkly comedic Western film based on the novel of the same name by Patrick deWitt. The story follows the infamous Sisters Brothers, Eli (John C. Reilly) and Charlie (Joaquin Phoenix). They are hired gunslingers and assassins in the 1850s Gold Rush era, working for a powerful and enigmatic man, the Commodore.
They find themselves entangled in a series of unexpected and often absurd events. Along the way, their perspectives on their line of work and their own lives begin to shift, leading to a questioning of their loyalty to the Commodore and their chosen paths.
The Sisters Brothers is not for everyone. It has an unconventional narrative and some have found its pacing and tonal shifts to be a bit uneven. It offers a unique take on the Western genre, blending dark humor, character-driven storytelling and stunning visuals.
Blackthorn (2011) - Mateo Gil
IMDb: 7.2/10
Rotten Tomatoes:
Critics - 82% | Audience - 68%
Blackthorn is a Western film that picks up the story of the legendary outlaw Butch Cassidy, presumed dead after evading a massive shootout with law enforcement. Living under the alias James Blackthorn in a quiet Bolivian village, Cassidy seeks a peaceful life away from his criminal past.
However, his plans are disrupted when he encounters a young Spanish mining engineer on the run from a local criminal gang. Reluctantly, Cassidy agrees to help the engineer, and together, they embark on a journey through the rugged landscapes of Bolivia, facing danger and challenges that force Cassidy to confront his past and consider the possibility of a different future.
It has been a long time since I watched Blackthorn, but I remember enjoying its grit and various homages to classical Westerns that came before it.
The Salvation (2014) - Kristian Levring
IMDb: 6.7/10
Rotten Tomatoes:
Critics - 72% | Audience - 62%
The Salvation is a Danish western film set in the 1870s that follows Jon (Mads Mikkelsen), a Danish immigrant who has built a new life in the American West. When his family is brutally murdered, Jon seeks justice, setting off a violent chain of events. As he hunts down the men responsible, he draws the attention of Delarue (Jeffrey Dean Morgan), a ruthless gang leader who controls the town. Jon's quest for justice becomes a battle for survival as he faces off against Delarue and his gang, testing his courage and determination to protect what he loves.
If you are looking for a Western story about revenge and gritty action, you found it. That’s about it, though.
Other Low Westerns on My Watchlist:
The Harder They Fall (2021)
The Valley of Violence (2016)
Appaloosa (2008)
The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford (2007)
Seraphim Falls (2006)
The Proposition (2005) - Looks like the cover of Read Dead Redemption!
Open Range (2003)
Frontier Westerns
Slow but deep and dramatic! These films portray the harsh realities of life in the untamed frontier where force and nature are the rule rather than law and civilized society. Some of these films may not perfectly fit the “Western” genre, but they retain the themes of lawlessness, revenge, greed and the persistence of the human spirit.
Deadwood: The Movie (2019) - Daniel Minahan
IMDb: 7.4/10
Rotten Tomatoes:
Critics - 98% | Audience - 83%
Deadwood: The Movie is a continuation of the critically acclaimed HBO series "Deadwood." Set a decade after the events of the series, the residents of Deadwood come together to celebrate South Dakota's statehood. Old rivalries are reignited, alliances tested and former wounds reopened as they face the future together.
The narrative deftly interweaves characters' personal struggles with the larger political and historical context of the time, providing closure for fans of the series while delivering a compelling standalone story.
Obviously, you have to watch the HBO series first (more on that later!) to make any sense of the film that brings the show’s story to its conclusion. If you are familiar with the show, I think you will find it to be satisfactory, at the least, and moving, at the best.
Hostiles (2017) - Scott Cooper
IMDb: 7.2/10
Rotten Tomatoes:
Critics - 70% | Audience - 76%
Set in 1892, Hostiles follows Captain Joseph J. Blocker (Christian Bale), a seasoned Army officer tasked with escorting a Cheyenne war chief, Yellow Hawk (Wes Studi), and his family back to their tribal lands in Montana. The journey is fraught with danger as they traverse a harsh and unforgiving landscape, facing external threats and internal conflicts.
As the group confronts the challenges of the journey, they must overcome their deep-seated prejudices and animosities, gradually learning to see each other as human beings rather than enemies. The film delves into themes of redemption, forgiveness, and the complexities of human relationships against the backdrop of a violent and divided historical era.
The opening of the film left me dumbfounded, and its characters moved me as the story progressed. It is depressing, so pour some strong whiskey and light a cigar. You’ll need it!
There Will Be Blood (2007) - Paul Thomas Anderson
IMDb: 8.2/10
Rotten Tomatoes:
Critics - 91% | Audience - 86%
There Will Be Blood is a drama film set in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, centered around the ambitious and ruthless oilman Daniel Plainview (Daniel Day-Lewis). The story follows Plainview's journey as he builds a successful oil drilling empire in California during the oil boom. As he becomes increasingly wealthy and powerful, his relationships with his family, particularly his adopted son H.W., and the local community become strained.
The film delves into themes of greed, ambition, family dynamics, and the destructive nature of greed. The narrative takes a darker turn as Daniel's ruthless pursuit of wealth pits him against Eli Sunday (Paul Dano), a zealous young preacher.
There are no milkshakes to be enjoyed by those who experience this cautionary tale about the temptations of power and greed.
The Revenant (2015) - Alejandro González Iñárritu
IMDb: 8.0/10
Rotten Tomatoes:
Critics - 78% | Audience - 84%
The Revenant is a gripping survival drama set in the harsh wilderness of 1820s America. The story follows frontiersman Hugh Glass (Leonardo DiCaprio) as he embarks on a fur trading expedition deep into uncharted territory.
When Glass is mauled by a bear and left for dead by his companions, John Fitzgerald (Tom Hardy) and Jim Bridger (Will Poulter), he must summon every ounce of strength and resilience to survive the treacherous journey back to civilization.
Driven by revenge and the will to live, Glass overcomes brutal elements, hostiles, and internal injuries, all while navigating the untamed landscape. His quest for survival becomes a mesmerizing tale of determination, the human spirit and the primal instinct to endure.
While The Revenant does not perfectly fit the Western mold, it embodies many similar themes and its cinematography is stunning to behold.
Other Frontier Westerns on my Watchlist:
Killers of the Flower Moon (2023) - I am excited to see Scorsese’s upcoming film!
The Power of the Dog (2021)
Old Henry (2021)
News of the World (2020) - Looks like True Grit with less truth and grit!
The Homesman (2014)
The Missing (2003)
Horror Westerns
The West has always been terrifying. It’s unknown and unforgiving. Survival is uncertain as the most trivial ailments of the modern world were a death sentence back then. Anyone who played The Oregon Trail as a kid understands the bane of dysentery and twisted ankles to our predecessors. The 21st-Century took the horrifying elements of the West to another level by haunting the barren plains of the frontier with troglodytes, malevolent spirits and extraterrestrials.
Bone Tomahawk (2015) - S. Craig Zahler
IMDb: 7.1/10
Rotten Tomatoes:
Critics - 91% | Audience - 74%
Bone Tomahawk is a gritty Western horror film that follows a small group of unlikely heroes on a perilous journey to rescue a kidnapped woman from a group of troglodytes, cave-dwelling Native Americans. The town's sheriff (Kurt Russell), a gunslinger (Matthew Fox), a cowboy (Patrick Wilson), and an elderly deputy (Richard Jenkins) form a rescue party and embark on a dangerous trek into the heart of savage territory. As they confront gruesome dangers and their own internal conflicts, they must overcome their differences and fears to save the captives before it's too late.
Bone Tomahawk is not for the faint of heart, but it has become one of my favorite contemporary Westerns due to its distinct story, gritty style, witty dialogue and grizzly violence. It is a slow burn for most of the film, but its climax is shocking. If you think Tarantino has reserved inhuman truculence for himself, think again!
The Wind (2018) - Jennifer Harper
IMDb: 5.6/10
Rotten Tomatoes:
Critics - 81% | Audience - 48%
In the desolate and isolated prairies of the late 1800s, a young couple, Lizzy (Caitlin Gerard) and Isaac (Ashley Zukerman) struggle to make a life for themselves in their remote cabin.
However, fears grow and paranoia sets in as Lizzy becomes increasingly convinced that the wind itself is harboring a malevolent spirit that haunts the prairies and their home. As tensions rise and their mental states deteriorate, Lizzy must confront the possibility that the true danger might not be the external force she imagines but something far more insidious within herself.
It is hard to come by Western horror movies, especially ones worth watching. The story and scares ultimately fail to satisfy, but The Wind is a welcome entry in a limited sub-genre. It makes excellent use of the unsettling sounds of nature to create tension, and it is visually stunning. If you have the itch for a scary take on the Western, I would start with Bone Tomahawk, but The Wind is a decent runner-up.
Other Western Horror Movies on my Watchlist:
Nope (2022)
The Burrowers (2008)
Ravenous (1999) - Hell, it’s close enough to the 21st Century!
Neo-Westerns
Emerging in the latter half of the 20th century and continuing to evolve into the 21st century, Neo-Westerns take the traditional elements and themes of classic Westerns but reinterpret them in a contemporary or modern setting. The genre is characterized by its willingness to challenge and subvert the conventions of traditional Westerns while exploring relevant social, political, and cultural issues of the time.
No Country for Old Men (2007) - Joel & Ethan Coen
IMDb: 8.1/10
Rotten Tomatoes:
Critics - 93% | Audience - 86%
No Country for Old Men follows the intersecting lives of three men in the desolate landscape of West Texas. Llewelyn Moss (Josh Brolin), a hunter stumbling upon a drug deal gone wrong, finds a suitcase filled with two million dollars and decides to take it, setting off a violent chain of events. Anton Chigurh (Javier Bardem), a ruthless hitman, is tasked with retrieving the stolen money. Sheriff Ed Tom Bell (Tommy Lee Jones), a seasoned lawman on the verge of retirement, becomes embroiled in the chaos as he attempts to apprehend Chigurh and protect Moss. As the pursuit unfolds, the film delves into themes of fate, morality, and the changing landscape of crime.
It is praised for its tense storytelling, masterful direction by the Coen Brothers, and unforgettable performances, particularly Javier Bardem's portrayal of Anton Chigurh. The film's exploration of moral ambiguity and its bleak depiction of violence contribute to its status as a modern classic in the Neo-Western genre and my favorite 21st-Century Western movie. It is also among the best book-to-film adaptations I have seen.
Hell or High Water (2016) - David Mackenzie
IMDb: 7.6/10
Rotten Tomatoes:
Critics - 96% | Audience - 88%
Hell or High Water is a modern Western crime thriller that follows the story of two brothers, Toby (Chris Pine) and Tanner Howard (Ben Foster), who embark on a series of bank robberies in West Texas. Their goal is to secure enough money to save their family ranch from foreclosure. As they execute their heists, they find themselves pursued by a seasoned Texas Ranger, Marcus Hamilton (Jeff Bridges), and his partner, Alberto Parker (Gil Birmingham).
The film delves into themes of economic hardship, family loyalty, and the blurred lines between right and wrong. The movie's blend of Western and modern crime thriller elements adds a unique flavor to the narrative, making it a standout entry in both genres. The performances are stellar across the board, but Chris Pine and Ben Foster are brilliant on screen portraying brothers who could not be different but love and care for each other nonetheless.
El Camino: A Breaking Bad Movie (2019) - Vince Gilligan
IMDb: 8.0/10
Rotten Tomatoes:
Critics - 88% | Audience - 72%
El Camino: A Breaking Bad Movie is a follow-up to the critically acclaimed TV series "Breaking Bad." The film continues the story of Jesse Pinkman (Aaron Paul) immediately after the events of the series finale. Jesse must navigate a world of danger and uncertainty as he seeks freedom and a fresh start. The movie follows Jesse's attempts to elude law enforcement, confront his traumatic past, and find a way to build a new life for himself.
The film successfully continued the intense and gripping storytelling that "Breaking Bad" was known for, providing closure to Jesse Pinkman's character arc while maintaining the dark and gritty tone of the original series. I am a big Breaking Bad fan, so I was worried when I heard about the creation of El Camino. I was wrong to doubt Vince Gilligan’s writing and direction! For fans of the series, El Camino is entertaining, satisfying and moving.
Wind River (2017) - Taylor Sheridan
IMDb: 7.7/10
Rotten Tomatoes:
Critics - 88% | Audience - 90%
Wind River is a gripping crime thriller set in the desolate landscapes of Wyoming. The story follows Cory Lambert (Jeremy Renner), a skilled tracker and wildlife officer, as he discovers the body of a young woman on the Wind River Indian Reservation. The FBI sends rookie agent Jane Banner (Elizabeth Olsen) to assist in the investigation. As they delve deeper into the case, they uncover a harrowing tale of murder, mystery and the harsh realities faced by the residents of the reservation. Lambert and Banner must navigate a treacherous terrain of snow, silence, and secrets to bring justice to the victim and her community.
Wind River provides tense atmospheres, powerful performances and explores the social issues affecting Indigenous communities. Jeremy Renner and Elizabeth Olsen's chemistry, along with Taylor Sheridan's direction and screenplay, were highlighted as key strengths of the film. The movie deftly balances its suspenseful crime narrative with a poignant portrayal of the harsh realities of those living in remote, isolated environments.
Other Neo-Westerns on my Watchlist:
Strange Way of Life (2023)
Let Him Go (2020)
Cry Macho (2021)
The Highwaymen (2019)
Animated Westerns
The Animated Western is a distinct and relatively niche category that combines elements of traditional Westerns with animation techniques to achieve creative and imaginative storytelling. Animation has fascinated me due to its ability to bring certain ideas, stories and characters to life that would not be possible through other visual mediums. Where else can you go to see gunslinging desert animals or swashbuckling cats?
Rango (2011) - Gore Verbinski
IMDb: 7.2/10
Rotten Tomatoes:
Critics - 88% | Audience - 70%
Rango is an animated Western comedy film that follows the story of a chameleon (Johnny Depp) who is an aspiring actor living as a pet in a terrarium. After a series of events, our hero finds himself stranded in the Mojave Desert and stumbles upon the town of Dirt, a drought-stricken outpost facing numerous challenges. Adopting a new identity as a tough gunslinger named “Rango,” takes on the role of sheriff to protect the town from various threats and uncover the mysterious water shortage.
Rango may be among the strangest animated films I can recall, and that’s why I love it! It is so unique in its animation style, bizarre humor and ridiculous one-liners that I use on a regular basis. Johnny Depp's charismatic performance as the titular character is phenomenal, and all the other wacky characters are distinct and memorable.
Puss in Boots: The Last Wish (2022) - Joel Crawford
IMDb: 7.9/10
Rotten Tomatoes:
Critics - 77% | Audience - 92%
When Puss in Boots (Antonio Banderas) discovers that his legendary feats and adventures have brought him down to the last of his nine lives, he sets out on an epic journey to find a magical Wishing Star that can restore his nine lives.
DreamWorks has always impressed me with its ability to breathe new life into an eleven-year-old franchise with its sequels and spinoffs, but I was pleasantly surprised by Puss in Boots: The Last Wish. It is wonderful in every way and, by far, the best-animated film I have seen in years.
The animation is creative and beautiful, the story is imaginative and clever, the dialogue is witty and hilarious, and the characters are wacky, wild and deep. The Wolf (Wagner Moura), a bounty hunter pursuing Puss throughout the story, is truly terrifying to behold, and the voice acting will make the hairs stand up on the back of your neck.
I dare to include it among the Animated Western genre because it is the classic Western tale of a famous outlaw confronted with the reality that his days of fun and adventure are numbered and ultimately lonesome. His “unmatched” skills have finally met their match, and Puss must reevaluate his place in the world with the impending threat of death looming in the background. It is beautiful, fun and, at times, deeply moving with its lessons about the importance of friends and family.
Sci-Fi Westerns
The Sci-Fi Western is a unique and captivating subgenre of science fiction that combines elements of the American Western with futuristic or speculative technology and settings. This genre blends the rugged, lawless landscapes of the Old West with advanced technology, extraterrestrial worlds, or alternative histories, resulting in a rich and imaginative storytelling canvas.
Cowboys & Aliens (2011) - Jon Favreau
IMDb: 6.0/10
Rotten Tomatoes:
Critics - 44% | Audience - 43%
In the action-packed sci-fi Western film Cowboys & Aliens, the tranquil town of Absolution in Arizona Territory becomes the unlikely battleground between two vastly different worlds: the Old West and extraterrestrial invaders.
The enigmatic Jake Lonergan (Daniel Craig) awakens in the desert with no memory and a mysterious shackle on his wrist. As he ventures into Absolution, he discovers a town plagued by strife, led by Colonel Dolarhyde (Harrison Ford).
However, the tense dynamics shift when powerful alien spacecraft suddenly attack the town, abducting its residents. With no other option, Lonergan, Dolarhyde and a diverse group of townspeople form an unlikely alliance to confront this otherworldly threat.
Cowboys & Aliens isn’t anything to write home about in terms of its story or characters. The story and dialogue are pretty terrible at times, but it is imaginative, entertaining and packed with wild skirmishes between good ole cowboys carrying repeating rifles and revolvers and their bug-like alien enemies armed with spaceships and advanced weaponry.
Prospect (2018) - Zeek Earl & Chris Caldwell
IMDb: 6.3/10
Rotten Tomatoes:
Critics - 89% | Audience - 74%
Prospect is a science fiction film set in the distant future, where humanity has expanded to other planets and moons in search of valuable resources in the final frontier. It is a Western set in space!
The story follows a father and daughter duo, Damon (Jay Duplass) and Cee (Sophie Thatcher), who embark on a treacherous journey to a remote, toxic moon searching for rare and valuable gems. As they navigate the dangerous and unpredictable terrain of the moon, they must contend with hostile alien flora and fauna, as well as other prospectors with their own agendas, including Ezra (Pedro Pascal) and his partner.
The film explores themes of survival, trust, and the lengths people will go to for riches in a harsh and unforgiving environment like many of the gold rush Western films that came before it. It also features excellent performances from Sophie Thatcher and Pedro Pascal before they ascended to stardom in more recent films and TV shows.
Solo: A Star Wars Story (2018) - Ron Howard
IMDb: 6.9/10
Rotten Tomatoes:
Critics - 69% | Audience - 63%
Solo: A Star Wars Story is a space adventure film that delves into the early life of the iconic smuggler, Han Solo (Alden Ehrenreich). The story follows Han Solo as he embarks on a daring journey to become the skilled pilot and charming scoundrel we know and love. Along the way, he meets his loyal co-pilot, Chewbacca, and encounters the charismatic gambler Lando Calrissian (Donald Glover). Together, they navigate a dangerous criminal underworld and face thrilling challenges that will shape the future of this legendary character.
While some appreciated the exploration of Han Solo's backstory and the film's action sequences, others felt it didn't quite capture the magic of the original Star Wars saga. Solo failed to blow me away, and Disney’s consistent overreliance on nostalgia over story and characters is off-putting, but it is a fun and entertaining adventure in the Star Wars universe. Alden Ehrenreich’s performance as Han Solo and the imaginative train heist stand out in an otherwise bloated and bland film.
Martial Arts Westerns
Martial Arts Westerns are a subgenre combining traditional American Western elements with the martial arts action popularized in Asian cinema. This strange fusion of two distinct genres has produced various films that often feature stylized gunfights, fistfights and acrobatic combat sequences set against the backdrop of the American Old West.
Kill Bill: Vol. 1 & 2 (2003-2004) - Quentin Tarantino
IMDb: 8.0/10 - Vol 1. & Vol. 2
Rotten Tomatoes:
Critics - 85% | Audience - 80-85% – Vol. 1 & Vol. 2
Kill Bill: Vol. 1 & 2 is a two-part revenge saga directed by Quentin Tarantino. The story follows "The Bride" (Uma Thurman), a former assassin who wakes up from a coma to discover that her former colleagues, led by her ex-lover Bill (David Carradine), have attacked her and left her for dead on her wedding day. After surviving the attack, she embarks on a relentless journey to seek vengeance against those who wronged her.
Characterized by Tarantino's signature non-linear storytelling and intense action sequences, Kill Bill: Vol. 1 & 2 features a mix of genres, including martial arts, Spaghetti Western, and almost everything in between. The Kill Bill saga is a weird, wild and bloody revenge tale that has no equal.
Shanghai Noon (2000) - Tom Dey
IMDb: 6.6/10
Rotten Tomatoes:
Critics - 78% | Audience - 64%
In Shanghai Noon, Chon Wang (Jackie Chan), an Imperial Guard in the Forbidden City of China, travels to the Wild West in search of Princess Pei Pei (Lucy Liu), who has been kidnapped and taken to America.
In Nevada, he teams up with a local outlaw, Roy O'Bannon (Owen Wilson), to rescue the princess and bring her back to China. The unlikely duo uses their unique skills to overcome obstacles and save the day.
Shanghai Noon features a blend of action, comedy, and the charismatic chemistry between Jackie Chan and Owen Wilson. The film's cross-cultural humor and distinct premise contribute to its appeal, but it is never as entertaining as the comedy, action and chemistry that Jackie Chan and Chris Tucker achieved in the Rush Hour franchise.
Other Martial Arts Westerns on my Watchlist:
Dystopian Westerns
Blending elements of Classic Westerns with the dark and bleak themes commonly found in dystopian storytelling, Dystopian Westerns often present a future or alternate version of the American frontier, blending the rugged landscapes, lawlessness, and iconic imagery of the Wild West with speculative and often grim visions of society's decay or oppression.
Mad Max: Fury Road (2015) - George Miller
IMDb: 8.1/10
Rotten Tomatoes:
Critics - 97% | Audience - 86%
In a post-apocalyptic desert wasteland, a tyrannical ruler named Immortan Joe (Hugh Keays-Byrne) controls the precious water supply and subjugates his people. Furiosa (Charlize Theron), a fearless warrior, rebels against his rule by helping a group of enslaved women escape in a massive armored truck known as the War Rig. It is Stagecoach but way more metal, literally and figuratively!
In pursuit, Immortan Joe unleashes his fanatical War Boys, led by the volatile Nux (Nicholas Hoult). Amidst the chaos, Max (Tom Hardy), a lone wanderer haunted by his past, reluctantly joins forces with Furiosa and becomes an unlikely ally in their fight for freedom.
I had never seen anything like Mad Max: Fury Road when I saw it for the first time in theaters. I have yet to find another film that matches its breathtaking action sequences and stunning practical effects.
The Rover (2014) - David Michôd
IMDb: 6.4/10
Rotten Tomatoes:
Critics - 68% | Audience - 51%
Set in a dystopian future after a global economic collapse, The Rover follows a hardened loner named Eric (Guy Pearce) as he embarks on a relentless journey across the Australian outback to recover his stolen car.
During his quest, Eric crosses paths with Rey (Robert Pattinson), a wounded and abandoned man left behind by a gang of thieves. As the two form an uneasy alliance, they navigate the harsh and lawless landscape, confronting their own demons and exploring the fragile bond that develops between them.
The Rover is a gritty and atmospheric thriller that explores themes of isolation, desperation, lawlessness and human resilience in a desolate world. The film suffers from pacing issues, and it is downright bizarre at times. I also had mixed feelings about the conclusion and the reveal of the titular character’s motivations.
Nonlinear Westerns
The Nonlinear Western genre is a subversion of the traditional Western, which is characterized by its straightforward, linear narrative structure often featuring clear heroes and villains in a classic showdown in the American Old West. Nonlinear Westerns break away from these conventions and embrace a more complex storytelling approach, often challenging traditional Western tropes and offering a fresh perspective on the genre.
The Ballad of Buster Scruggs (2018) - Joel & Ethan Coen
IMDb: 7.3/10
Rotten Tomatoes:
Critics - 89% | Audience - 78%
The Ballad of Buster Scruggs is an anthology film consisting of six interconnected short stories set in the American Old West. Each story features distinct characters and narratives, ranging from comedic to tragic, exploring various aspects of life on the frontier.
From the cheerful and charismatic gunslinger Buster Scruggs, who engages in a series of unexpected gunfights, to a prospector searching for fortune and encountering unforeseen challenges, the film weaves together tales that capture the essence of the Wild West in its entirety. The stories delve into themes of mortality, human nature and the absurdity of life in a treacherous setting full of possibility.
It is witty, comedic and, at times, downright depressing, everything you’d expect from the Coen Brothers. The first shot story features “When A Cowboy Trades His Spurs For Wings,” which is an absolute banger of a song! The anthology film hits its mark. It is never a pan shot!
The Hateful Eight: Extended Version (2015) - Quentin Tarantino
IMDb: 7.8/10
Rotten Tomatoes:
Critics - 75% | Audience - 77%
The Hateful Eight is a gripping western thriller set shortly after the American Civil War. The story revolves around a group of eight strangers who find themselves trapped in a remote stagecoach lodge due to a blizzard. The tension rises as they suspect that not everyone is who they claim to be. As the storm rages outside, the characters' dark pasts and ulterior motives slowly unravel, leading to a deadly game of deception, betrayal and violence.
I have added The Hateful Eight: Extended Version to the Nonlinear Western genre because it transforms the original 2015 film into a miniseries recut into four episodes that each run for close to 50 minutes. Tarantino’s films often deviate from linear storytelling, but The Hateful EightL Extended Version embraces the nonlinear approach with its change in format. It benefits from being truly episodic. I much preferred watching it as a miniseries, and I enjoyed the extended dialogue sequences that add more context and depth to each of the story’s characters.
Superhero Westerns
Westerns are often committed to ruggedness and realism. The Superhero Western maintains ruggedness and traditional Western themes but replaces realism with superhuman powers and fantastical abilities. The fusion creates a distinct subgenre that explores justice, morality and power through the lens of the surreal.
Logan (2017) - James Mangold
IMDb: 8.1/10
Rotten Tomatoes:
Critics - 94% | Audience - 90%
Set in a bleak future where mutants are nearly extinct, Logan follows an aging Wolverine (Hugh Jackman) whose healing abilities are fading. He cares for an ailing Professor X (Patrick Stewart) in hiding along the Mexican border. However, their secluded life takes a turn when they encounter a young mutant named Laura (Dafne Keen) with extraordinary abilities. As they journey to protect Laura from sinister forces, Logan must confront his own mortality and rediscover his heroism.
The Western influence on Logan is seen and felt throughout the film, but it is most apparent when Professor X and Laura are in an Oklahoma City casino hotel watching Shane (1953) together. It is a beautiful moment as Professor X reflects upon seeing the movie as a child. The scene was entirely improvised by Sir Patrick Stewart because Shane was one of the first memories he had at the theater. They watch the end of the film, and Laura recites Shane’s speech at the close of Logan:
“Joey, there’s no living with it. The killing. There’s no going back from it. Right or wrong is a brand. A brand sticks. There’s no going back. Now, you run on home to your mother and tell her … tell her everything’s alright. There aren’t any more guns in the valley.”
Logan is an excellent film and powerful proof that the traditional themes of the West can be renewed and well-preserved in modern film.
The Mask of Zorro (1998) - Martin Campbell
IMDb: 6.8/10
Rotten Tomatoes:
Critics - 83% | Audience - 73%
The Mask of Zorro follows the story of Don Diego de la Vega (Anthony Hopkins), a skilled swordsman and defender of the oppressed in 19th-century California. After being imprisoned for 20 years, he escapes and seeks a successor to continue his mission of fighting injustice and tyranny under the guise of Zorro, the masked outlaw.
He finds his successor in Alejandro Murrieta (Antonio Banderas), a young thief seeking revenge against the villainous Don Rafael Montero (Stuart Wilson), who had wronged both Murrieta and de la Vega in the past. Together, they train and work to bring down Montero's tyrannical rule and restore justice to the land, all while navigating swashbuckling action, daring escapades and a blossoming romance with Elena Montero (Catherine Zeta-Jones).
I am cheating again by adding a 1998 film to a list of 21st-century Westerns, but it is close enough. Plus, who didn’t love watching The Mask of Zorro as a kid? I have fond memories of Anthony Hopkins’ and Antonio Banderas’ swashbuckling adventures as the masked vigilante, Zorro. The film combines many different genres, but there is no doubt you are watching a Western. In fact, Steven Spielberg supposedly told Antonio Banderas during shooting that The Mask of Zorro would be “one of the last” non-CGI Westerns. If Spielberg counts The Mask of Zorro among the Western genre, that is a good enough reason for me to do so as well.
Western TV Shows
While Westerns are alive and well in the 21st Century, the genre is not limited to film. There are some stellar Western TV series that I would be remiss to leave out, especially since some of the shows are connected with the films previously mentioned or other classic Western films from the 20th Century.
Deadwood (2004-2006)
IMDb: 8.6/10
Rotten Tomatoes:
Critics - 92% | Audience - 95%
Set in the lawless town of Deadwood, South Dakota, during the late 1800s, the HBO classic follows a diverse cast of characters as they navigate the challenges of frontier life, from clashes with Native Americans and local law enforcement to power struggles and personal conflicts. The arrival of civilization and the encroachment of government authority further complicate the lives of the town's inhabitants, leading to intense drama, shifting allegiances and unexpected alliances.
Deadwood is brutal, profane and akin to a modern Shakespearian comedy and tragedy. It is so well done and thoughtful. Go watch it, and then you can enjoy Deadwood: The Movie!
Hell on Wheels (2011-2016)
IMDb: 8.3/10
Rotten Tomatoes:
Critics - 73% | Audience - 89%
Hell on Wheels is a gritty and intense Western drama television series that follows the construction of the First Transcontinental Railroad in the United States during the 1860s. The show revolves around Cullen Bohannon (Anson Mount), a former Confederate soldier seeking revenge for his wife's death, who becomes entangled in the chaotic and dangerous world of the railroad's construction. The series explores the challenges, conflicts and complex relationships among the diverse group of people involved in the monumental task of connecting the East and West coasts of the country.
I thoroughly enjoyed the first and second seasons of the show, but the remainder of the series is often confusing and disappointing in terms of its characters and storytelling. If you have already watched Deadwood, Hell on Wheels will scratch the itch for a gritty Western. Don’t get too invested, though! Pretend that the finale of season two, and you will save yourself a lot of time and frustration.
Westworld (2016-2022)
IMDb: 8.5/10
Rotten Tomatoes:
Critics - 80% | Audience - 72%
Westworld is a science fiction HBO series set in a futuristic theme park where guests interact with lifelike android hosts in a Wild West setting. The show explores the complexities of consciousness, morality and the consequences of blurring the lines between human and artificial intelligence. As the hosts gain self-awareness and question their reality, the park's meticulously crafted façade starts to crumble, leading to a series of events that unravel the true nature of the park and its creators.
In my humble opinion, the first season of Westworld is the best TV series I have ever witnessed. The storytelling, dialogue and performances are exceptional all thanks to the unmatched talent of Jonathan Nolan and Lisa Joy as the show’s writers and an incredible cast featuring Evan Rachel Wood, Thandiwe Newton, Jeffrey Wright, James Marsden, Ed Harris and Anthony Hopkins. It maintains philosophical depth, thrilling narrative twists and visually stunning production design. It is practically perfect in every way from start to finish. I cannot recommend the first season enough.
As disappointing as it is to admit, I would not bother with anything beyond the first season of the series. Given HBO’s cancellation of the show after four seasons and its removal of the series from its streaming platform, the continuation of the story was not well received by fans of its masterful first season. It completely failed to perpetuate its previous success. Do yourself a favor and enjoy the first season as the distinct, cohesive and amazing story. The show deserves to be remembered at its best.
The Mandalorian (2019-Present)
IMDb: 8.7/10
Rotten Tomatoes:
Critics - 90% | Audience - 78%
The Mandalorian is a space-western TV series set in the Star Wars universe. The show follows the journey of a lone bounty hunter, Din Djarin, also known as the Mandalorian or Mando. Taking place after the fall of the Empire and before the rise of the First Order, the series explores the outer reaches of the galaxy far from the authority of the New Republic.
Din Djarin's life takes an unexpected turn when he's tasked with capturing a mysterious and adorable alien creature known as "The Child" but affectionately called "Baby Yoda" by fans.
The show blends action, humor, and heart, all against the backdrop of the iconic Star Wars universe. It is entertaining and the best continuation of the Star Wars franchise I have seen aside from Star Wars: The Clone Wars and Rogue One. It captures and explores the Star Wars universe wonderfully and gives us Grogu, the most lovable creature and companion in the galaxy. The visuals and Pedro Pascal’s performance as Din Djarin are particularly impressive, but I often found the storylines, side characters and dialogue lacking.
Other Western TV Shows on my Watchlist:
Yellowstone (2018-2023)
Justified (2010-2015)
Firefly (2002-2003)
Good stuff, Caleb! Definitely need to add a lot of these to my watchlist!