101 Best Western Movies to Unlock the World of Entertainment

| Updated on October 11, 2024

Western movies typically originated in America and began in the 1870s. Hence, the American Film Institute defined Western as a film genre and stated, set in the American West that [embody] the spirit, the struggle, and the demise of the new frontier”. Apart from the Western genre, American films incorporate literature, music, television, and plastic arts. Western movies gain popularity from the silent era (1894-1929) to the sound era (post-1929).

If you’ve had enough of all the new movies available on streaming platforms, you should take some time to explore Western movies. 

This article elaborates on the best Western films enlisted with revisionist Western movies, comedy Western movies, the best modern Western movies, silent Western movies, and more. If you want to watch the best Western film of all time, adhere to this article till the end.

1. Heaven’s Gate (1980)

Heaven’s Gate (1980)

Heaven’s Gate is an epic American Western film released in 1980. Michael Cimino directed and wrote the film with an ambitious idea. It is not only a film but also a historical document of Americans.

Synopsis- The storyline consists of the 1890 Johnson Country War, the conflict between land barons and European immigrants.

Release Date: November 19, 1980 (USA)
Director: Michael Cimino
Cast:  Kris Kristofferson, Christopher Walken, John Hurt, Sam Waterston, Brad Dourif, Isabelle Huppert, Jeff Bridges, and Joseph Cotten
Genre: Epic Western 
Rating: 6.7/10 (IMDb)
Where to Watch: Tubi, YouTube, Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV 
Runtime: 2:34:07

2. The Gunfighter (1950)

The Gunfighter (1950)

The Gunfighter is one of the best American Western films directed by Henry King. The film was released in 1950 and nominated for “Best Motion Picture Story” during the 23rd Academy Awards.

Synopsis- The film revolves around the main character Jimmy Ringo, a gunslinger who rides in the town, and trouble always traps him.

Release Date: June 23, 1950 (USA)
Director: Henry King 
Cast: Gregory Peck, Helen Westcott, Millard Mitchell and Karl Malden
Genre: Western
Rating: 7.7/10 (IMDb)
Where to Watch: Tubi, YouTube, Amazon Prime Video, Google Play Movies & TV, Apple TV, Crackle, Xumo Play, etc.
Runtime: 01:24:29

3. City Slickers (1991)

City Slickers (1991)

City Slickers is an American Western comedy movie released in 1991 and directed by Ron Underwood. The film won the “Favorite Comedy Motion Picture” title in the People’s Choice Awards.

Synopsis- Every year, three friends plan a vacation away from their wives to get a break from their hectic lives. This year they take a supervised cattle drive, which unexpectedly becomes dangerous. 

Release Date: June 7, 1991 (USA)
Director: Ron Underwood
Cast: Billy Crystal, Daniel Stern, Bruno Kirby and Jack Palance
Genre: Western Comedy 
Rating: 6.8/10 (IMDb) 
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime, YouTube, Google Play Movies & TV, Fandango At Home
Runtime: 01:53:00

4. The Professionals (1966)

The Professionals (1996)

The Professionals is an American Western film released in 1966. The film was written, directed, and produced by Richard Brooks. Additionally, it was nominated for an Oscar three times and achieved 5th position in “Best Foreign Film” during the Turkish Film Critics Association Awards.

Synopsis- A wealthy rancher hired four soldiers to rescue his wife, who was kidnapped by a Mexican Bandit. During their fighting journey, they find something fictitious.

Release Date: November 2, 1966
Director: Richard Brooks
Cast:  Burt Lancaster, Lee Marvin, Robert Ryan, Woody Strode, with Jack Palance, Claudia Cardinale and Ralph Bellamy
Genre: Western 
Rating: 7.3/10 (IMDb)  
Where to Watch: YouTube, Google Play Movies & TV, Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Fandango At Home 
Runtime: 01:57:00

5. The Cowboys (1972)

The Cowboys (1972)

The Cowboys is an American Western movie released in 1972 and directed by Mark Rydell. The film is based on William Jennings’s novel “The Cowboys”. It won the Bronze Wrangler Award for Best Theatrical Motion Picture at the Western Heritage Awards. 

Synopsis- A rancher who trains schoolboys to become cowboys. He undertakes a big cattle drive but the devious bandit aims to steal herds in midway of jeopardy.

Release Date: January 13, 1972 (USA)
Director: Mark Rydell  
Cast:  Colleen Dewhurst and Slim Pickens
Genre: Western
Rating: 7.4/10 (IMDb) 
Where to Watch: YouTube, Google Play Movies & TV, Apple TV, Amazon Prime Video, Fandango At Home 
Runtime: 02:08:00

6. The Daughter of Dawn (1920)

The Daughter of Dawn (1920)

The Daughter of Dawn is an American Silent Western film released in 1920. The film was lost but restored by the Oklahoma Historic Society in 2012. It is 83 minutes long and acted by native Americans and Indians.

Synopsis- The film surrounds love quadrilateral. The daughter of Dawn loves White Eagle, White Eagle loves Dawn but Black Wolf also loves Dawn and another woman Red Wing loves Black.

Release Date: October 1920 (Los Angeles)
Director: Norbert A. Myles  
Cast: Esther LeBarre, White Parker, Jack Sankadota, Wanada Parker
Genre: Silent Western
Rating: 5.8/10 (IMDB) 
Where to Watch: YouTube, Plex, JustWatch, The Roku Channel  
Runtime: 01:18:58

7. Open Range (2003)

Open Range (2003)

The Open Range is an American Revisionist Western film released in 2003. It is directed and co-produced by Kevin Costner. The film received the MTV Movie Award and Western Heritage Award. 

Synopsis- Boss Spearmen and his two cowhands are driving cattle across the country landscape. Where one of them met with violent hostility from landowners and was grabbed by them. Then the remaining two take revenge on who captured him. 

Release Date: August 11, 2003 (USA) 
Director: Kevin Costner
Cast:  Robert Duvall and Costner, with Annette Bening, Michael Gambon, and Michael Jeter
Genre: Revisionist Western 
Rating: 7.4/10 (IMDb)   
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video, YouTube, Google Play Movies & TV, Apple TV, Fandango At Home 
Runtime: 02:15:00

8. Tombstone (1993)

Tombstone (1993)

Tombstone is an American Western film released in 1993 and directed by George P. Cosmatos. The film grossed $73.2 million in revenue in 1993.

Synopsis- Wyatt Earp and his two brothers left their gunslinger ways and moved to Tombstone to start a business. But there they have violated conflict with a ruthless Cowboy gang. Destiny forced them to pick up their guns again.

Release Date: December 25, 1993 (USA)
Director: George P. Cosmatos 
Cast: Kurt Russell and Val Kilmer, with Sam Elliott, Bill Paxton, Powers Boothe, Michael Biehn, and Dana Delany
Genre: Western 
Rating: 7.8/10 (IMDb) 
Where to Watch: Hulu, Amazon Prime Video
Runtime: 02:03:00

9. Little Woods (2018)

Little Woods (2018)

Little Woods is an American crime drama film released in 2018. Nia DaCosta directed the film and debuted in directorial career. The film focused on inadequate health access, housing insecurity, poverty, and opioid security.

Synopsis- Two estranged sisters living in the town of Dakota. They struggled to pay a mortgage in one week which her dead mother left for them.

Release Date: April 21, 2018
Director: Nia DaCosta 
Cast: Tessa Thompson, Lily James, Luke Kirby, James Badge Dale and Lance Reddick.
Genre: Crime Drama 
Rating: 6.2/10 (IMDb)  
Where to Watch: Tubi, Amazon Prime Video, Google Play Movies & TV, YouTube, Apple TV 
Runtime: 01:43:06

10. The Ox-Bow Incident (1943)

The Ox-Bow Incident (1943)

The Oxbow Incident is an American Western film released in 1943 and directed by William A. Wellman. The film was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Picture at the 16th Academy Awards and last.

Synopsis- Two cowboys arrive in the classic Western town to find the murderer of a local rancher and cattle thief. They join the lynch mob and catch three murderers and hang them.

Release Date: May 21, 1943 (USA)
Director: William A. Wellman 
Cast:  Henry Fonda, Dana Andrews, and Mary Beth Hughes, with Anthony Quinn, William Eythe, Harry Morgan, and Jane Darwell
Genre: Western 
Rating: 8/10 (IMDb)  
Where to Watch: YouTube, Amazon Prime Video, Google Play Movies & TV, Apple TV 
Runtime: 01:15:00

11. The Good, The Bad, The Weird (2008)

The Good, The Bad, The Weird (2008)

The Good, The Bad, The Weird is a South Korean Western action film released in 2008, directed by Kim Jee-woon. The film won several awards, including Best Director, Best Cinematography, Best Popular Film, Best Art Direction, and more. 

Synopsis- The story of three Korean criminals grasping the hidden treasures against the rival Japanese army and Chinese bandits. During the conflict journey, they also aim to take down each other.

Release Date: July 17, 2008 (South Korea) and April 23, 2010 (USA)  
Director: Kim Jee-woon
Cast: Song Kang-ho, Lee Byung-hun, and Jung Woo-sung
Genre: Western 
Rating: 7.2/10 (IMDb)  
Where to Watch: YouTube, Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, The Roku Channel, AMC+, Sling TV 
Runtime: 02:10:00

12. Two Mules for Sister Sara (1970)

Two Mules for Sister Sara (1970)

Two Mules for Sister Sara is an American-Mexican Western film released in 1970 and directed by Don Seigel. The film was nominated for Best Comedy Performance and won 3rd place in the Best Action Performance title in the Laurel Award. 

Synopsis- When gunslinger Hogan escapes a young nun from a group of bandits, the two men hire him in a Mexican revolutionary camp in a fight against the French army.

Release Date: June 16, 1970 (USA) 
Director: Don Seigel  
Cast: Shirley MacLaine and Clint Eastwood
Genre: Mexican-Western  
Rating: 7/10 (IMDb) 
Where to Watch: Hulu, YouTube, Amazon Prime Video, Google Play, Apple TV, Starz, Philo, Fandango At Home 
Runtime: 01:45:00

13. ‘49-’17 (1917)

‘49-’17

‘49-’17 is another American Silent Western film from 1917, directed by Ruth Ann Baldwin, the first woman Western director. The library of Congress preserved the complete print of the film. 

Synopsis- A retired judge hires actors to create a gold rush of 1849, but things get complicated when the real gold mine is found nearby and the vicious gambler kidnaps a local girl.

Release Date: October 15, 1917 (USA)
Director: Ann Baldwin  
Cast: Joseph W. Girard, Leo Pierson, and William J. Dyer
Genre: Silent Western
Rating: 5.8/10 (IMDb) 
Where to Watch: YouTube, Google Play Movies & TV 
Runtime: 01:02:39

14. Blood on the Moon (1948)

Blood on the Moon (1948)

Blood on the Moon is a black-and-white psychological Western movie released in 1948 and directed by Robert Wise. The film is based on the “Gunman’s Chance” novel by Luke Short. 

Synopsis- An unemployed cowhand is hired by his old friend. But when he realizes his friend’s illicit business, there is a dispute between them and they become cursed enemies.

Release Date: November 9, 1948 (USA) 
Director: Robert Wise 
Cast: Robert Mitchum, Barbara Bel Geddes, Robert Preston and Walter Brennan
Genre: Psychological Western
Rating: 5.8/10 (IMDb)  
Where to Watch: YouTube, Google Play Movies & TV, Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Sling TV, Fandango At Home 
Runtime: 01:27:00

15. Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid (1969)

Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid (1969)

Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid is an American Western Buddy film released in 1969, directed by George Roy Hill, and written by William Goldman. It was the eighth most popular in 1970 France at that time.

Synopsis- Butch and Sundance are the team leaders of the criminal gang. When the train robbery went wrong, and the battle with posses. They ran to Bolivia to escape from the law.

Release Date: September 23, 1969 (USA) 
Director: George Roy Hill 
Cast: Paul Newman, Robert Redford, Katharine Ross, Strother Martin, Jeff Corey, and Henry Jones
Genre: Western buddy
Rating: 8/10 (IMDb)
Where to Watch: YouTube, Google Play Movies & TV, Apple TV, Amazon Prime Video, Sling TV
Runtime: 01:50:00

16. Posse (1993)

Posse (1993)

Posse is an American Western film released in 1993 and directed by Mario Van Peebles. It was the first film to be released by Gramercy Pictures, American Production Label. 

Synopsis- A group of soldiers return from the Spanish-American war and find a gold cache. Their group leader takes revenge on the men who killed their priest father.

Release Date: May 14, 1993 (USA)
Director: Mario Van Peebles 
Cast: Mario Van Peebles, Woody Strode, Stephen Baldwin
Genre: Western film
Rating: 5.5/10 (IMDb)  
Where to Watch: Hulu, YouTube, Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Fandango At Home, Max 
Runtime: 01:51:00

17. A Fistful of Dollars (1964)

A Fistful of Dollars (1964)

A Fistful of Dollars is a spaghetti Western film released in 1964 and directed by Sergio Leone. Legal Disputes also arise over Akira Kurosawa’s claim that it is the remake of his film Yojimbo.  

Synopsis- A man with no name enters a small town of Mexico. He plays disputes between two powerful families by pride, revenge, and greed for his advantage.

Release Date: September 12, 1964 (Italy) and January 18, 1967 (USA)
Director: Sergio Leone 
Cast:  Clint Eastwood, Gian Maria Volonté, Marianne Koch, Wolfgang Lukschy, Sieghardt Rupp, José Calvo, Antonio Prieto and Joseph Egger
Genre: Spaghetti Western  
Rating: 7.9/10 (IMDb) 
Where to Watch: Tubi, Pluto TV, YouTube, Google Play Movies & TV, Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV 
Runtime: 01:40:04

18. Tumbleweeds (1925)

Tumbleweeds (1925)

Tumbleweeds is an American Silent Western film released in 1925 directed and starring by William S. Hart. The film is based on the Cherokee Strip land rush of 1893. Although, It was the last movie of Hart, and retired from the cinema.

Synopsis- A cowboy who falls in love with a woman. He intends to join the Cherokee Strip land rush of 1893 and own land to settle with his love. But before a new journey, he was arrested by law.

Release Date: December 20, 1925 (USA) 
Director: William S. Hart  
Cast: William S. Hart 
Genre: Silent Western 
Rating: 6.5/10 (IMDb)  
Where to Watch: Tubi, MGM+, YouTube, Sling TV, Amazon Prime Video, Philo, The Roku Channel 
Runtime: 01:25:42

19. The Learning Tree (1969)

The Learning Tree (1969)

The Learning Tree is an American coming-of-age film released in 1969 directed, produced, and written by George Godson. It is based on Godson’s semi-autobiographical novel “The Learning Tree”. However, he is the first black filmmaker for American Studio.

Synopsis- An African-American teen who learns fear, racial injustice, love, and immorality. He also witnesses that his friend’s father murdered a person which makes him perplexed between the choice of friendship and laws.

Release Date: August 6, 1969 (USA) 
Director: George Godson 
Cast: Kyle Johnson, Alex Clarke, Estelle Evans, and Dana Elcar 
Genre: Coming-of-age 
Rating: 7.2/10 (IMDb)  
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video, YouTube, Google Play Movies & TV, Apple TV, Fandango At Home 
Runtime: 01:47:00

20. The Covered Wagon (1923)

The Covered Wagon (1923)

The Covered Wagon is also an American Silent Western film released in 1923 and directed by James Cruze. The film is based on the 1922 novel “The Covered Wagon” by Emerson Hough.

Synopsis- Two wagon caravans combine towards a westward trek. Their journey observes desert heat, mountain snow, hunger, and Indian attacks. Along with it, the three men fall in love with the same woman.

Release Date: March 16, 1923 
Director: James Cruze 
Cast: J. Warren Kerrigan and  Lois Wilson 
Genre: Silent Western 
Rating: 6.6/10 (IMDb)  
Where to Watch: YouTube, Tubi, Sling TV, Amazon Prime Video 
Runtime: 01:38:34

21. The Settlers (2023)

The Settlers (2023)

The Settlers is a revisionist Western drama film released in 2023 and directed by Felipe Galvez Haberle. The film won the Best Picture title at the Stockholm International Film Festival Award, Fiction Grand Award, Best Screenplay Award, and more. 

Synopsis- Three horsemen begin their journey to secure a wealthy landowner’s vast property. They are accompanied by a British Lieutenant and an American mercenary, who realize that their task is to remove the native population.

Release Date: May 22, 2023 (Cannes) and January 12, 2024 (USA) 
Director: Felipe Galvez Haberle
Cast: Mark Stanley, Camilo Arancibia, Benjamin Westfall, Alfredo Castro, Mishell Guaña, Sam Spruell, Marcelo Alonso and Adriana Stuven
Genre: Revisionist Western Drama 
Rating: 7/10 (IMDb) 
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video, Fandango At Home, Apple TV   
Runtime: 01:40:00

22. Dances with Wolves (1990)  

Dances with Wolves (1990)

Dances with Wolves is an American epic Western film released in 1990 directed, produced, and starring Kevin Costner. The film is based on the 1988 novel “Dances with Wolves” by Michael Blake. In addition to the awards, it received Academy Award for Best Picture and more honored awards.

Synopsis- The lieutenant is assigned a post to the Western Civil War. There he met with the Lakota tribe of American Indians. The new surroundings change his life purposes.

Release Date: November 21, 1990 (USA) 
Director: Kevin Costner
Cast: Kevin Costner, Mary McDonnell, Graham Greene, and Rodney Grant
Genre: Epic Western  
Rating: 8/10 (IMDb)  
Where to Watch: Tubi, Pluto TV, Sling TV, YouTube, Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies & TV
Runtime: 03:01:07

23. Westward the Women (1951)

Westward the Women (1951)

Westward the Women is an American Western film released in 1951 and directed by William A. Wellman. The film grossed a profit of $266,000 at that time. 

Synopsis- Roy Whitman gathers all good and honest women to bring a caravan of brides from Chicago to California. Through their long journey, women bear challenging problems and reach their destination. Then, Roy might discover that women are stronger than he thinks.

Release Date: December 31, 1951 (USA)
Director: William A. Wellman  
Cast: Robert Taylor, Denise Darcel, and John McIntire
Genre: Western  
Rating: 7.6/10 (IMDb) 
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and Fandango At Home  
Runtime: 01:56:00

24. The Proposition (2005)

The Proposition (2005)

The Proposition is an Australian Western film released in 2005 and directed by John Hillcoat. The film won numerous awards including Best Cinematography, Best Musical Score, Best Costume Design, Best Feature Film, and more. 

Synopsis- A lawman takes Charlie Burns into custody and gives him 9 days to kill his older brother in an offer to save his younger brother.

Release Date: June 9, 2006 (USA) 
Director: John Hillcoat
Cast: Guy Pearce, Ray Winstone, Emily Watson, John Hurt, Danny Huston and David Wenham
Genre: Western 
Rating: 7.3/10 (IMDb) 
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video, YouTube, Tubi, Apple TV, Crackle, Philo, Xumo Play, etc.  
Runtime: 01:44:00

25. Lone Star (1996)

Lone Star (1996)

Lone Sar is an American neo-Western mystery film released in 1996 directed and written by John Sayles. The film won the Belgian Grand Prix, Academy Award, Best Director, and Best Screenplay Award. It is also recognized by the American Film Institute in the Top 10 list of 2008 nominated Western Films.

Synopsis- Sheriff Sam Deeds finds an old skeleton of Sheriff Charlie Wade. He digs the investigation further and the proof points towards his late father. The mystery is whether his father murdered Wade or not.

Release Date: June 21, 1996 (USA)
Director: John Sayles 
Cast:  Chris Cooper, Kris Kristofferson, Elizabeth Peña and Matthew McConaughey
Genre: Neo-western mystery 
Rating: 7.4/10 (IMDb)  
Where to Watch: YouTube, Amazon Prime Video, Google Play Movies & TV, Apple TV, Plex, Fandango At Home 
Runtime: 02:15:00

26. True Grit (2010)

True Grit (2010)

True Grit is an American Western film released in 2010 directed, produced, and written by Joel Coen and Ethan Coen. The film is based on the 1968 novel “True Grit” by Charles Portis. 

Synopsis- A 14-year-old girl convinces a cruel hunter to find Tom, the murderer of her father. She aims to kill the murderer and through their expedition, they invent a strong bond with each other.

Release Date: December 22, 2010 (USA)
Director: Joel Coen and Ethan Coen
Cast: Matt Damon, Josh Brolin, and Barry Pepper
Genre: Western 
Rating: 7.6/10 (IMDb) 
Where to Watch: Google Play Movies & TV, Amazon Prime Video, YouTube, MGM+, Apple TV, Philo, Sling TV 
Runtime: 01:46:00

27. Bring Me the Head of Alfredo Garcia (1974)

Bring Me the Head of Alfredo Garcia

Bring Me the Head of Alfredo Garcia is a Mexican-American neo-Western film released in 1974 and directed by Sam Peckinpah. The film intends to explore human desperation and moral decay.

Synopsis- A Mexican crime rancher finds his daughter is pregnant with his assistant, Alfredo Garcia. He hires two bounty hunters and offers millions of dollars to bring the head of Alfredo. 

Release Date: August 14, 1974 (New York) 
Director: Sam Peckinpah
Cast: Warren Oates and Isela Vega, with Robert Webber, Gig Young, Helmut Dantine, Emilio Fernández and Kris Kristofferson
Genre: Neo-Western 
Rating: 7.4/10 (IMDb)  
Where to Watch: YouTube, Amazon Prime Video, Dailymotion  
Runtime: 01:52:19

28. The Ruthless Four (1968)

The Ruthless Four (1968)

The Ruthless Four is an Italian/West feature motion picture about the American Western film released in 1968 and directed by Giorgio Capitani. The film was first released in Europe, Italy, and West Germany.

Synopsis- Four men undertake a mission to dig a fortune of gold from the hills of Nevada. During their journey, they combat each other and challenging conditions.

Release Date: November 1969 (USA)
Director: Giorgio Capitani  
Cast: Van Heflin, and Gilbert Roland
Genre: Italian/Western feature motion picture 
Rating: 6.5/10 (IMDb)  
Where to Watch: Tubi, YouTube, Crackle, Philo, Sling TV, AMC+, The Roku Channel, Crackle 
Runtime: 01:34:21

29.  The Phantom Empire (1935)

The Phantom Empire (1935)

The Phantom Empire is an American Western serial film released in 1935 and directed by Otto Brower. The film is considered to be the first science-fiction western film.

Synopsis- A cowboy singer discovers Muranians beneath the ocean. They developed advanced technology and weaponry including TVs and laser guns. The rich supply of radium attracts the greedy above. However, a cowboy tries to prevent war between Muranians and greedy gamblers.

Release Date: February 23, 1935 
Director: Otto Brower 
Cast:  Gene Autry, Frankie Darro, and Betsy King Ross
Genre: Western  
Rating: 6.2/10 (IMDb)  
Where to Watch: YouTube, Amazon Prime Video 
Runtime: 01:09:00

30. Nope (2022)

Nope (2022)

Nope is an American Western science-fiction horror film released in 2022. It was directed, produced, and written by Jordan Peele. The film won the Best Horror Film Award at the St. Louis Gateway Film Critics Association, Best Science Fiction Film at the Saturn Awards, and more.

Synopsis- In California, a man and his sister discover an unidentified threatening flying object above their horse ranch. On the other side, a nearby owner tends to earn a profit from it.

Release Date: July 22, 2022 (USA) 
Director: Jordan Peele
Cast: Daniel Kaluuya, Keke Palmer, Steven Yeun, Michael Wincott, Brandon Perea, and Keith David
Genre: Western science fiction horror 
Rating: 6.8/10 (IMDb)  
Where to Watch: YouTube, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, Apple TV, Google Play, Sling TV, Starz 
Runtime: 02:10:00

31. Meek’s Cutoff (2010)

Meek’s Cutoff (2010)

Meek’s Cutoff is an American Western film released in 2010 and directed by Kelly Reichardt. The film was displayed in competition at the 67th Venice International Film Festival.

Synopsis- In 1840, a small group of settlers traveled across the Oregon High Desert. Meanwhile, they suspected that their guide did not recognize the area. The lack of food and water makes the condition worse.   

Release Date: September 4, 2010 (Venice) and April 8, 2011 (USA) 
Director: Kelly Reichardt 
Cast: Michelle Williams, Paul Dano, Bruce Greenwood, Shirley Henderson, Neal Huff, Zoe Kazan, Tommy Nelson, Will Patton, Rod Rondeaux
Genre: Western  
Rating: 6.5/10 (IMDb)  
Where to Watch: Tubi, Pluto TV, Amazon Prime Video, YouTube, Apple TV, Fandango At Home
Runtime:01:42:29

32. Companeros (1970)

Companeros (1970)

Companeros is an Italian/Spanish/French International co-production of Zapata Western buddy comedy film released in 1970 and directed by Sergio Corbucci. The film grossed a revenue of 1,451,782,000 Italian lire (currency used in Italy between 1861 and 2002) on its first release day. 

Synopsis- A Swedish armed man and a Mexican peasant team up to rescue the leader of the Revolution. Their journey is surrounded by dangerous adventures.

Release Date: December 1970 (Italy, Spain, West Germany) and April 1972 (USA)  
Director: Sergio Corbucci  
Cast: Franco Nero, Tomas Milian, Jack Palance and Fernando Rey
Genre: Western buddy comedy  
Rating: 7.2/10 (IMDb) 
Where to Watch: Tubi, Pluto TV, Fandango At Home, Plex, Apple TV, Amazon Prime Video  
Runtime: 01:54:59

33. Buck and the Preacher (1972)

Buck and the Preacher (1972)

Buck and the Preacher is an American Western film released in 1972 and directed by Sidney Poitier. It is the first film that breaks the American stereotype to cast black African Americans as the center character.

Synopsis- Buck helps former slaves to find settlement in the West following the end of the war. Later, Preacher also joins the group but always conflicts with Buck. Meanwhile, the bounty hunters attack the group to capture the slaves, and then they both team up to rescue the slaves.

Release Date: March 17, 1972  
Director: Sidney Poitier 
Cast: Sidney Poitier, Harry Belafonte, Ruby Dee, and Cameron Mitchell
Genre: Western  
Rating: 6.6/10 (IMDb)  
Where to Watch: Xumo Play, YouTube, Google Play Movies & TV, Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Fandango At Home  
Runtime: 01:44:00

34. Bend of the River (1952)

Bend of the River (1952)

Bend of the River is an American Western film released in 1952 and directed by Anthony Mann. The film is based on the 1950 novel “Bend of the Snake” by Bill Gulick.

Synopsis- When a vicious boss captures homesteaders’ supplies after the gold rush is found. The cowboy, McLyntok risks his life and steals gold for the settlers and reaches the settlements.

Release Date: January 23, 1952 (USA) 
Director: Anthony Mann 
Cast: James Stewart, Arthur Kennedy, Julie Adams, and Rock Hudson
Genre: Western  
Rating: 7.2/10 (IMDb)  
Where to Watch: YouTube, Sling TV, Amazon Prime Video 
Runtime: 01:31:21

35. Sergeant Rutledge (1960)

Sergeant Rutledge (1960)

Sergeant Rutledge is an American Technicolor Western film released in 1960 and directed by John Ford. The film’s title was also used for novelization published in the same year.

Synopsis- At the court-martial of the US Army, a soldier is accused of the murder of a commanding officer and raping and murdering his daughter. However, Lt. Tom Cantrell defends him and exposes the truth of Fort that day. 

Release Date: May 18, 1960 (USA) 
Director: John Ford 
Cast:  Jeffrey Hunter, Constance Towers, Woody Strode and Billie Burke.
Genre: Western  
Rating: 7.4/10 (IMDb) 
Where to Watch: YouTube, Google Play Movies & TV, Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Fandango At Home
Runtime: 01:51:00

36. The Ballad of Cable Hogue (1970)

The Ballad of Cable Hogue (1970)

The Ballad of Cable Hogue is an American Technicolor Western film released in 1970 and directed by Sam Peckinpah. The film earned $5,000,000  worldwide.

Synopsis- Accidentally, Cable Hogue discovers a water string after wandering in the desert for days. He builds a successful business of offering water to passing visitors.

Release Date: May 13, 1970 (USA) 
Director: Sam Peckinpah 
Cast: Jason Robards, Stella Stevens, and David Warner
Genre: Western  
Rating: 7.2/10 (IMDb)  
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video, Google Play Movies & TV, Apple TV, Fandango At Home 
Runtime: 02:01:00

37. The Man from Laramie (1955)

The Man from Laramie (1995)

The Man from Laramie is an American Western film released in 1955 and directed by Anthony Mann. The film was adapted from the serial by Thomas T. Flynn. 

Synopsis- A man takes revenge for his young brother’s murder. He runs up against the gang selling rifles and weapons to the Apache tribes. During his voyage, he faces many hardships and adventures.

Release Date: August 31, 1955 (USA)
Director: Anthony Mann  
Cast:  James Stewart, Arthur Kennedy, Donald Crisp, and Cathy O’Donnell.
Genre: Western  
Rating: 7.3/10 (IMDb)  
Where to Watch: YouTube, Philo, Google Play Movies & TV, Amazon Prime Video, Fandango At Home 
Runtime: 01:42:00

38. Django (1966)

Django (1996)

Django is a Spaghetti Western film released in 1966, directed and co-written by Sergio Corbucci. The film received an 18-certificate in Italy as it was one of the most violent movies at that time.

Synopsis- Django and a prostitute enmesh on the neutral border between a Klan of Southern racists and a band of Mexican Revolutionaries. Therefore, their journey was filled with rivalry and revenge.

Release Date: December 1966 (USA) 
Director: Sergio Corbucci
Cast: Franco Nero, Loredana Nusciak, José Bódalo, Ángel Álvarez, and Eduardo Fajardo.
Genre: Spaghetti Western  
Rating: 7.2/10 (IMDb) 
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video, YouTube, Apple TV, Google Play Movies & TV, Xumo Play, Pluto TV, Sling TV, Plex 
Runtime: 01:31:00 

39. Pat Garrett and Billy the Kid (1973)

Pat Garrett and Billy the Kid (1973)

Pat Garrett and Billy the Kid is an American revisionist Western film released in 1973 and directed by Sam Peckinpah. The film was ranked 126th in the list of “The 500 Greatest Movies of All Time” in Empire’s magazine.

Synopsis- Pat Garrett, a lawman is searching for outlaw Billy the Kid, who murdered two deputy sheriffs in the Lincoln County Jail. Although, Garrett and Billy were childhood friends.

Release Date: May 23, 1973
Director: Sam Peckinpah  
Cast: James Coburn, Kris Kristofferson, Richard Jaeckel, Katy Jurado, Chill Wills, Barry Sullivan, Jason Robards, Slim Pickens and Bob Dylan
Genre: Revisionist Western 
Rating: 7.2/10 (IMDb)  
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video, Sling TV, YouTube, Google Play Movies & TV, Apple TV, Fandango At Home
Runtime: 01:55:00 

40. River of No Return (1954)

River of No Return (1954)

River of No Return is an American Western musical film released in 1954 and directed by Otto Preminger. The film had its world premiere in Denver, Colorado on April 29, 1954. 

Synopsis-  A farmer who was recently released from prison, his 9-year-old son, and a singer sailing downriver towards the gold claim with hearts full of revenge, care, and love. 

Release Date: April 30, 1954 (USA) 
Director: Otto Preminger  
Cast: Robert Mitchum and Marilyn Monroe
Genre: Western Musical  
Rating: 6.6/10 (IMDb) 
Where to Watch: Google Play Movies & TV, Apple TV, Fandango At Home, Amazon Prime Video Runtime: 01:30:00

41. Rancho Notorious (1952)

Rancho Notorious (1952)

Rancho Notorious is an American Technicolor Western film released in 1952 and directed by Fritz Lang. The film was originally titled ad ‘The Legend of Chuck-a-Luck’ but was later changed by the head of RKO Pictures.

Synopsis- The protagonist looking for revenge after his fiancee’s murder. He manages to find where the criminals are hiding themselves with the help of a former saloon singer.

Release Date: March 1, 1952 (USA) 
Director: Fritz Lang  
Cast:  Marlene Dietrich, Arthur Kennedy, and Mel Ferrer 
Genre: Western  
Rating: 6.8/10 (IMDb) 
Where to Watch: Tubi TV, Plex, Amazon Prime Video 
Runtime: 01:29:03

42. Near Dark (1987)

Near Dark (1987)

Near Dark is an American neo-western horror film released in 1987. It was co-written and directed by Kathryn Bigelow and premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) in September 1987.

Synopsis- Caleb meets Mae at the bar. However, Mae turns out to be a vampire and bites his neck. As a result, he also transforms into a vampire. Along his journey, he is forced to choose between his family and lover, Mae.   

Release Date: October 2, 1987 (USA) 
Director: Kathryn Bigelow 
Cast:  Adrian Pasdar, Jenny Wright, Bill Paxton, Lance Henriksen, and Jenette Goldstein
Genre: Neo-Western horror 
Rating: 6.9/10 (IMDb) 
Where to Watch: YouTube, Amazon Prime Video  
Runtime: 01:34:00 

43. Forty Guns (1957)

Forty Guns (1957)

Forty Guns is an American Western film directed by Samuel Fuller. It was released in 1957 and was first titled “Woman With A Whip” during its pre-production.

Synopsis- A rancher Jessica rules an Arizona county with her brother and hired forty guns. After the arrival of the Marshal brothers things getting transformed.

Release Date: September 1957 (USA) 
Director: Samuel Fuller 
Cast: Barbara Stanwyck, Barry Sullivan, and Gene Barry.
Genre: Western  
Rating: 7/10 (IMDb)  
Where to Watch: Tubi, Plex, Amazon Prime Video  
Runtime: 01:16:47

44. Day of the Outlaw (1959) 

Day of the Outlaw (1959)

Day of the Outlaw is an American Western film released in 1959 and directed by Andre De Toth. The film was based on the 1955 novel “Day of the 

Outlaw” by Lee Edwin Wells.

Synopsis- A ruthless cowboy has disputes with a farmer which turns into a bloody rivalry. At the same time, a cavalry captain with a group of thugs seized the town. Cowboy aims to rescue the town and restore his image.

Release Date: July 1959 (USA)  
Director: Andre De Toth  
Cast: Robert Ryan, Burl Ives, and Tina Louise
Genre: Western  
Rating: 7.3/10 (IMDb)  
Where to Watch: Tubi, Pluto TV, Amazon Prime Video, YouTube, Apple TV, The Roku Channel, Plex 
Runtime: 01:32:12

45. The Rider (2017)

The Rider (2017)

The Rider is an American contemporary Western film that premiered in 2017 at the Cannes Film Festival. It was directed by Chloe Zhao and released in 2018 at US theatres. The film won Top Ten Independent Film, Best Picture, and Best Feature Awards. 

Synopsis- After a fatal head injury, a cowboy is forced to stop his rodeo circuit. He tries to find new work and a new purpose in his life.

Release Date: May 20, 2017 (Cannes) and April 13, 2018 (USA)  
Director: Chloe Zhao  
Cast: Brady Jandreau, Lilly Jandreau, Tim Jandreau, Lane Scott, and Cat Clifford
Genre: Contemporary Western 
Rating: 7.4/10 (IMDb)  
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video, Max, YouTube, Apple TV, Google Play Movies & TV 
Runtime: 01:42:00

46. The Magnificient Seven (1960) 

The Magnificient Seven (1960)

The Magnificient Seven is an American Western film released in 1960 and directed by John Sturges. The film was a remake of the 1954 Old West-style Japanese film “Seven Samurai” by Akira Kurosawa. 

Synopsis- The band of outlaws captured the Mexican village. Therefore, the afraid villagers hired seven gunslingers to rescue themselves. Hence, the gunslingers train villagers the self-defense techniques.           

Release Date: October 23, 1960 (USA) 
Director: John Sturges 
Cast:  Yul Brynner, Steve McQueen, Charles Bronson, Robert Vaughn, Brad Dexter, James Coburn, Horst Buchholz, and Eli Wallach
Genre: Western  
Rating: 7.7/10 (IMDb)  
Where to Watch: YouTube, Amazon Prime Video, Tubi, Google Play Movies & TV, Apple TV, Sling TV, MGM+ 
Runtime: 02:08:06

47. The Ballad of Little Jo (1993)

The Ballad of Little Jo (1993)

The Ballad of Little Jo is an American Western drama film released in 1993. It was directed and written by Maggie Greenwald. The film is inspired by the real-life story of Josephine Monaghan, a young woman who lived as a man in the late 19th century. 

Synopsis- A young woman who is thrown out by his family without money. She disguises herself as a man named Jo for her safety from predatory men.      

Release Date: August 20, 1993  
Director: Maggie Greenwald  
Cast: Suzy Amis, Bo Hopkins, Ian McKellen, David Chung, René Auberjonois, and Carrie Snodgress
Genre: Western drama 
Rating: 6.7/10 (IMDb) 
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video, YouTube, Google Play Movies & TV, Apple TV, Fandango At Home 
Runtime: 02:00:00

48. There Will Be Blood (2007)

There Will Be Blood (2007)

There Will Be Blood is an American epic period drama film released in 2007. It is directed and written by Paul Thomas Anderson and based on the 1927 novel “Oil” by Upton Sinclair. The film ranked 1st in the Top 10 Films at the Austin Film Critics Association Awards. 

Synopsis- A ruthless silver miner who targets a preacher’s land, on top of an oil ocean. Their journey includes violence, hatred, family, and oil for business. 

Release Date: December 26, 2007 (USA) 
Director: Paul Thomas Anderson  
Cast:  Daniel Day-Lewis,  Paul Dano, Kevin J. O’Connor, Ciarán Hinds, and Dillon Freasier
Genre: Epic period drama 
Rating: 8.2/10 (IMDb) 
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video, YouTube, Google Play Movies & TV, Apple TV, Pluto TV, Paramount+ 
Runtime: 02:38:00

49. 3:10 to Yuma (1957)

3 10 to Yuma (1957).webp

3:10 to Yuma is an American Western film released in 1957 and directed by Delmer Daves. The film is based on the 1953 short story by Elmore Leonard. It received a nomination for Best Film at the British Academy of Film and Television Arts.   

Synopsis- A small-time rancher is hired by the stagecoach to capture the criminal. Meanwhile, the outlaw leader Wade waiting for the 3:10 train to Yuma to escape himself and his gang.  

Release Date: August 7, 1957 (USA)   
Director: Delmer Daves  
Cast: Glenn Ford and Van Heflin
Genre: Western 
Rating: 7.6/10 (IMDb)  
Where to Watch: YouTube, Google Play Movies & TV, Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Xumo Play, Runtime: 01:32:05

50. The Shootist (1976)

The Shootist (1976)

The Shootist is an American Western film released in 1976 and directed by Don Seigel. The film was based on the 1975 novel “The Shootist” by Glendon Swarthout. Moreover, it received an Oscar nomination for Best Art Direction. 

Synopsis- An aging gunfighter is diagnosed with cancer and moves to Nevada in his last days. He is looking for a way to die with minimum pain and more pride.

Release Date: August 20, 1976 (USA) 
Director: Don Seigel
Cast: John Wayne, Lauren Bacall, Ron Howard, James Stewart, Richard Boone, John Carradine, Scatman Crothers, Richard Lenz, Harry Morgan, Sheree North and Hugh O’Brian
Genre: Western 
Rating: 7.6/10 (IMDb)  
Where to Watch: YouTube, Pluto TV, Google Play Movies & TV, Apple TV, Amazon Prime Video, Fandango At Home  
Runtime: 01:39:00

51. The Wild Bunch (1969)

The Wild Bunch (1969)

The Wild Bunch is an American epic revisionist Western film released in 1969 and directed by Sam Peckinpah. The film won Best Sound Editing-Dialogue and Best Sound Editing-Feature Film at Motion Picture Sound Editors Award.

Synopsis- An aging gunman looks for one last robbery and prepares for retirement joined by his group. Their journey concludes with disputes and gunfights between them.

Release Date: June 18, 1969 (USA) 
Director: Sam Peckinpah  
Cast: William Holden, Ernest Borgnine, Robert Ryan, Edmond O’Brien, Ben Johnson and Warren Oates
Genre: Epic revisionist western  
Rating: 7.9/10 (IMDb)  
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video, YouTube, Google Play Movies & TV, Apple TV, Fandango At Home 
Runtime: 02:24:00

52. The Quick and the Dead (1995)  

The Quick and the Dead (1995)

The Quick and the Dead is an American revisionist Western film released in 1995 and directed by Sam Raimi. The film grossed $47 million revenue worldwide. 

Synopsis- A woman gunslinger rides in the town seeking revenge for Father’s murder. Her father is killed by a sadistic mayor who is organizing a brutal competition. She takes part in the competition and meets with another competitor who is also looking for revenge.

Release Date: February 10, 1995 (USA) 
Director: Sam Raimi 
Cast: Sharon Stone, Gene Hackman, Russell Crowe, and Leonardo DiCaprio
Genre: Revisionist Western 
Rating: 6.5/10 (IMDb)  
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video, Netflix, YouTube, Google Play Movies & TV, Apple TV, Philo, Sling TV  
Runtime: 01:40:00

53. Brokeback Mountain (2005)

Brokeback Mountain (2005)

Brokeback Mountain is an American neo-Western romantic drama film released in 2005 and directed by Ang Lee. The film is adapted from a 1997 short story written by Annie Proulx. Moreover, it premiered at the 2005 Venice International Film Festival and won the Golden Lion Award.

Synopsis- In 1963, two cowboys develop a sexual and emotional relationship. Their affair becomes complicated when they are both married to their fellow girlfriends.      

Release Date: December 9, 2005 (USA) 
Director: Ang Lee 
Cast: Heath Ledger, Jake Gyllenhaal, Anne Hathaway, and Michelle Williams
Genre: Neo-Western romantic drama 
Rating: 7.7/10 (IMDb)  
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video, YouTube TV, Google Play Movies & TV, Apple TV, Max, Hulu, Fandango At Home 
Runtime: 02:14:00

54. Paris, Texas (1984)

Paris, Texas (1984)

Paris, Texas is a neo-Western drama road film released in 1984 and directed by Wim Wenders. It won multiple awards including the Palme d’Or, the FIPRESCI Prize, and the Prize of the Ecumencial Jury at the 1984 Cannes Film Festival.

Synopsis- Travis is a man who has been missing for years. A stranger manages to contact his brother to inform him about missing Travis. He tries to reunite his family and bring his life back.

Release Date: August 23, 1984 (UK) 
Director: Wim Wenders  
Cast: Harry Dean Stanton, Nastassja Kinski, Dean Stockwell, Aurore Clément, and Hunter Carson
Genre: Neo-Western drama road film 
Rating: 8.1/10 (IMDb) 
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video, Max, Apple TV, YouTube
Runtime: 02:24:00

55. Hud (1963)

Hud (1963)

Hud is an American Western film released in 1963 and directed by Martin Ritt. The film won the Golden Lion Award at the Venice International Film Festival and was included in the National Film Registry by the Library of Congress.

Synopsis- Hud Bannon is an alcoholic, selfish, and arrogant son of hard-working Homer Bannon. They both have disputes with each other after Hud accidentally kills his brother in a car crash. 

Release Date: May 29, 1963 (USA) 
Director: Martin Ritt
Cast: Paul Newman, Melvyn Douglas, Brandon deWilde, and Patricia Neal
Genre: Western 
Rating: 7.8/10 (IMDb)  
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video, YouTube, Google Play Movies & TV, Apple TV, Pluto TV 
Runtime: 01:51:00

56. The Hanging Tree (1959)

The Hanging Tree (1959)

The Hanging Tree is an American Western film released in 1959 and directed by Delmer Daves. It is based on the 1957 novelette “The Hanging Tree” written by Dorothy M. Johnson.

Synopsis- A doctor with a tragic past trying to run out and save a person from the hanging tree. He settles in a town and falls in love with a woman. However, he is in trouble while attempting to help his girlfriend.

Release Date: February 11, 1959 (USA) 
Director: Delmer Daves  
Cast: Gary Cooper, Maria Schell, Karl Malden, and George C. Scott
Genre: Western 
Rating: 7.1/10 (IMDb)  
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV
Runtime: 01:47:00 

57. The Winning of Barbara Worth (1926) 

The Winning of Barbara Worth (1926)

The Winning of Barbara Worth is an American silent Western film released in 1926 and directed by Henry King. The film is based on the 1911 novel “The Winning of Barbara Worth” written by Harold Bell Wright. 

Synopsis- During the construction of an irrigation system in the town, an engineer competes with a cowboy for the affection of the rancher’s daughter.

Release Date: October 14, 1926
Director: Henry King 
Cast: Ronald Colman, Vilma Bánky and Gary Cooper
Genre: Silent Western 
Rating: 6.9/10 (IMDb)  
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV
Runtime: 01:29:00 

58. The Treasure of the Sierra Madre (1948) 

The Treasure of the Sierra Madre (1948)

The Treasure of the Siera Madre is an American neo-Western film released in 1948 and directed by John Hutson. Interestingly, it is based on the 1927 novel “The Treasure of the Sierra Madre” by B. Traven. 

Synopsis- Two Americans and one gold prospector mine gold in the Sierre Madre mountains. Their efforts lead them to danger and fortune.

Release Date: January 6, 1948 (USA) 
Director: John Hutson  
Cast: Humphrey Bogart, Tim Holt, Bruce Bennett, and Walter Huston
Genre: Neo-Western 
Rating: 8.2/10 (IMDb)  
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, The Roku Channel, YouTube, Google Play Movies & TV, Fandango At Home
Runtime: 02:06:00 

59. No Country for Old Men (2007)

No Country for Old Men

No Country for Old Men is an American neo-Western crime thriller film released in 2007. It is written, directed, produced, and edited by Joel and Ethan Coel. The film is based on the 2005 novel “No Country for Old Men” by Cormac McCarthy. 

Synopsis- A hunter discovers $2 million while stumbles upon dead bodies. This consequence makes him a psychopathic killer of greed for money.

Release Date: November 9, 2007 (USA) 
Director: Joel and Ethan Coel  
Cast: Tommy Lee Jones, Javier Bardem, and Josh Brolin 
Genre: Neo-Western crime thriller 
Rating: 8.2/10 (IMDb)  
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Netflix 
Runtime: 01:57:00

60. Shane (1953)

Shane (1953)

Shane is an American technicolor Western film released in 1953 and directed by George Stevens. The film is based on the 1949 novel “Shane” written by Jack Schaefer. 

Synopsis- A gunslinger rides into a small town with a hope of a peaceful settlement. But he is drawn into a battle with town folk and a ruthless cattle baron.

Release Date: April 23, 1953 (New York)
Director: George Stevens
Cast: Brandon deWilde, Jack Palance, Emile Meyer, Elisha Cook Jr., Edgar Buchanan, and Ben Johnson
Genre: Western  
Rating: 7.6/10(IMDb) 
Where to Watch: YouTube, Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Sling TV, Google Play Movies & TV 
Runtime: 01:58:00 

61. Silver Lode (1954)

Silver Lode (1954)

Silver Lode is an American Technicolor Western film released in 1954. It was directed by Allan Dwan and produced by Benedict Bogeaus. 

Synopsis- When four US marshals arrested the respected citizen on his wedding day on a charge of murder and theft. He tries to provoke himself to be innocent and finds the real culprit.

Release Date: July 23, 1954 (USA)
Director: Allan Dwan
Cast: John Payne, Lizabeth Scott, and Dan Duryea
Genre: Western  
Rating: 6.8/10 (IMDb)
Where to Watch: YouTube, Amazon Prime Video, Tubi, Sling TV, Plex, Xumo Play, The Roku Channel, Philo, Fandango At Home 
Runtime: 01:17:14 

Some Other Best Western Films of All Time That Are Worth Watching

Interestingly, there is a wide range of Western movies that highlight American culture. You can also explore other Western Movies from the following list which are appropriate for your preferences and entertainment choices.   

S.NoMovie Name SynopsisWhere To WatchIMDb Ratings 
1. The Lusty Men (1952)A rodeo rider trained a rancher for a rodeo circuit against his wife’s wishes.  Tubi 7.3/10
2.Kill and Pray (Requiescant) (1967)The adopted son of a preacher comes upon a village controlled by an ex-Confederate officer. Tubi6.5/10
3.Black God, White Devil (1963)After killing his boss, a rancher, and his wife run away and start following a black preacher. Amazon Prime Video7.2/10
4.Dead Man (1995)A strange North American man introduces the spiritual world to an accountant man who ran after killing someone.  Amazon Prime Video7.5/10
5.Blazing Saddles (1974)A corrupt politician hired a black sheriff to destroy and steal the lands of town to make way for a new railroad.Amazon Prime Video 7.7/10
6.The Misfits (1961)An ex-stripper, two gamblers with an ex-rodeo rider start a business by capturing wild horses.  Amazon Prime Video7.2/10
7.The Tall T (1957)A group of trio bandits kidnapped a former rancher along with his lover. He made a risky plan to free himself.  Tubi 7.3/10
8.Man of the West (1958)A former outlaw man rejoins the old gang to save his new friends, a saloon singer, and a conman Tubi 7/10
9.Pale Rider (1985)A preacher protects a small-town gold miners from a band of hooligans.  Amazon Prime Video7.3/10
10.Red River (1948)Dunson and Matt drive cattle to Missouri for better prices than the locality. But their journey becomes exhausting.   Tubi7.8/10
11.The Big Country (1958)A rich sea captain moves to the West to marry his fiancee. However, he was entangled in conflicts over a piece of land. Amazon Prime Video7.9/10
12.The Wind (1928)An emotionally damaged woman moves to West Taxes at her cousin’s home. This creates tension between the family and leads to tragedy. Tubi 8/10
13.High Noon (1952)A former marshal discovers that his wife and townpeople are discouraged from supporting him, and he faces a gang of killers alone. Amazon Prime Video 7.9/10
14.The Power of the Dog (2021)A domineering rancher torments his brother’s wife and her son until he is exposed to love.Netflix6.8/10
15.Unforgiven (1992)Two gunfighters ride in the town to collect rewards and conflicts with each other and the sheriff. Amazon Prime Video 8.2/10
16.The Furies (1950)There is a conflict between a rancher and his daughter. Tensions arise when he finds a new woman and his daughter falls in love with a bad boy.Amazon Prime Video7.3/10
17.The Great Silence (1968)A mute gunslinger stands between the innocent refugees and the criminal bandits.Amazon Prime Video 7.7/10
18.The Searchers (1956)An American Civil War veteran takes on a dangerous journey to rescue his niece after his family was killed by Comanches. YouTube7.8/10
19.Winchester ‘73 (1950)A cowboy wins a Winchester rifle in the contest but the criminal stole the gun. Hence, he chases the criminal risking his life.  Amazon Prime Video 7.6/10
20.Ride the High Country (1962)A retired lawman is hired to transport gold to a small town bank. Unfortunately, he was unaware that his friend and young drifter intended to steal the gold.  Amazon Prime Video 7.4/10
21.The Bravados (1958)A man tracks down four men who killed his wife and wants them to suffer.Amazon Prime Video7/10
22.The Good, the Bad and the Ugly (1966)The three men team up together to find $20,000 that a soldier buried in the desert.Tubi 8.8/10
23.Rio Bravo (1959)A sheriff enlists the help of a disabled man, a drunk, and a gunfighter to hold in jail the brother of a bad guy.  Amazon Prime Video8/10
24.The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance (1962)A senator who became famous for killing a criminal returned to his friend’s funeral and told the truth of his deed. Amazon Prime Video8.1/10
25.The Shooting (1966)A woman hires two bounty hunters and a gunslinger while traveling through the desert but refuses to tell them why she is traveling.  Tubi 6.5/10
26.Bad Day at Black Rock (1955)A one-armed war veteran arrives in the small town of Black Rock in search of a man named Komoko. Amazon Prime Video 7.7/10
27.Jeremiah Johnson (1972) A Mexican-American veteran embarks on a journey to the mountains and wishes to live in isolation but encounters danger.  Amazon Prime Video 7.6/10
28.Stagecoach (1939)A crew of travelers traveling on a stagecoach to the Wild West. Their journey is filled with danger, and they learn something new from each other.Tubi 7.8/10
29.Ride Lonesome (1959)A bounty hunter rides to California with his prisoner and is later accompanied by two outlaws and a widow.Tubi 7.1/10
30.Jubal (1956)A cowboy is searching for and employed by a local rancher. But a rancher’s wife showed interest in a cowboy, which results in rivalry. Amazon Prime Video 7.1/10
31.McCabe and Mrs. Miller (1971)A prostitute and gambler become a business partner, but a powerful company threatens to destroy their establishment. Tubi 7.6/10
32.For a Few Dollars More (1965)Two bounty hunters with the same intentions team up to collect a reward in pursuit of the sadistic criminal. Tubi 8.2/10
33.My Darling Clementine (1946)After finding his brother dead and cattle stolen, he becomes sheriff in want of revenge. In the small town of Tombstone, he falls in love with a woman, Clementine.    Amazon Prime Video7.7/10
34.Once Upon a Time in the West (1968)A mysterious gunslinger and McBain’s new wife arrive in a town. Meanwhile, McBain aims to capture land with water on it.  Amazon Prime Video8.5/10
35.Johnny Guitar (1954)A saloon owner’s wife is wrongly suspected of murder after the robbery in town that results in a man’s death.Amazon Prime Video7.6/10
36.The Naked Spur (1953)A bounty hunter catches a killer with the help of a prospector and former Union soldier. Amazon Prime Video7.3/10
37.She Wore a Yellow Ribbon (1949)On the day of retirement, an aging officer tries to prevent the Indian war. Amazon Prime Video7.2/10
38.Giant (1956)A wealthy landowner married his love. When they returned home, the rivalry of race, class, and traditions developed in the family. Amazon Prime Video7.6/10
39.7 Men From Now (1956)A man hunting for seven men who were responsible for his wife’s death during the Wells Fargo robbery Amazon Prime Video7.4/10
40.The Hateful Eight (2015)A bounty hunter and his prisoner struggle to find shelter in the winter, later accompanied by six characters. Amazon Prime Video7.8/10

Conclusion

The Western genre comprises various subgenres and has multiple movies to serve as entertainment. Therefore, the above 101 best Western films are available on popular and legal platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Netflix, YouTube, Tubi, Google Play Movies & TV, Apple TV, etc. You can watch as many as you want via these platforms. Some of these platforms offer free streaming otherwise you can buy and rent movies through them.

FAQ

What are the best comedy Western movies?

City Slickers, Companeros, and Two Mules for Sister Sara are the best comedy western movies.

What are the best science fiction Western movies?

The Phantom Empire and Nope are the best science fiction Western movies.

What are the legal platforms for watching Western films?

Amazon Prime Video, Netflix, Apple TV, YouTube, Google Play Movies & TV, and Tubi are the legal platforms for watching Western films.

Monika Chauhan

Tech and Internet Writer


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