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Westerns captivate our imaginations, evoking a sense of thrilling adventure set in a time when the vast North American frontier was untamed. In this era, survival often hinged on quick wits and a trusty six-shooter by your side, with cowboys, cattle rustlers, gunslingers, and bandits facing off in dusty showdowns.
Netflix boasts an impressive array of Western films, offering a diverse selection for enthusiasts of this genre. From underrated classics like Legends of the Fall to award-winning Netflix Originals such as The Power of the Dog, the platform delivers a compelling mix of Wild West tales. Over the years, the Western style has evolved, featuring iconic figures like Clint Eastwood and Idris Elba, ensuring that a resilient cowboy or cowgirl is always ready to ride into town and confront adversity.
As of November 28th, 2023, this article has been updated with additional content to ensure a lively and relevant discussion, incorporating new information and entries into the mix.
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19 Best Westerns on Netflix to Watch Right Now
The Beguiled (2017)
“The Beguiled,” a film written and directed by Sofia Coppola and based on Thomas P. Cullinan’s novel, is a contemporary adaptation of the 1971 film directed by Don Siegel and starring Clint Eastwood. Featuring a cast including Colin Farrell, Nicole Kidman, and Kirsten Dunst, the narrative follows an injured Union soldier who seeks refuge in an all-female southern school after deserting the conflict. As tensions escalate among the women, the story delves into the complexities of human dynamics.
What Makes It a Remarkable Western: Sofia Coppola is renowned for her focus on character-driven narratives rather than grand spectacles. “The Beguiled” stands out as a great Western as it explores the subtleties of real-life complexities, transcending the conventional black-and-white portrayals. Set in a historical period of rigid norms, the film depicts the challenges faced by those who choose compassion over conformity. The arrival of Corporal John McBurney prompts the women at the school to confront their beliefs and question their commitment to maintaining the established order.
Wind River (2017)
“Wind River,” a neo-Western crafted by the multi-talented Taylor Sheridan, features a compelling narrative centered on the investigation of the brutal murder and assault of a young Native American woman in the winter wilderness of Wyoming. FBI agent Jane Banner collaborates with local officer Cory Lambert to unravel the mystery, only to discover that their lives are at risk due to the implications of their inquiry on a local oil drilling operation.
Sheridan, often overlooked in Hollywood, emerges as a versatile force, excelling in writing, directing, acting, and producing. Despite lacking conventional recognition, his prowess is evident in the film, where he adheres to the principles of responsible storytelling. “Wind River” not only boasts a cast of high-profile talent but also stands out for introducing indigenous actors, enriching the narrative with authentic perspectives on real-world challenges faced by these communities.
Silverado (1985)
Silverado, a timeless American western, was both produced and directed by Lawrence Kasdan, known for his work on Raiders of the Lost Ark. The film features a stellar cast including Kevin Kline, Scott Glenn, Danny Glover, and Kevin Costner as four gunmen tasked with aiding settlers in recovering stolen valuables from a gang of thieves. Their pursuit brings them to the town of Silverado, where a corrupt sheriff and a greedy rancher maintain control over the townsfolk.
What Makes it a Remarkable Western: Silverado embodies the essence of classic cinema, reminiscent of Indiana Jones movies. It harks back to the straightforward storytelling that captivated audiences during the golden age of Westerns. The extensive cast combines both seasoned actors and rising stars, creating a dynamic ensemble. While drawing parallels to The Magnificent Seven, Silverado establishes its own unique identity. Despite falling short of box office expectations in its 1985 release, the film has achieved cult classic status over time.
Thar (2022)
“Thar” is a unique neo-Western set in India, directed and written by Raj Singh Chaudhary, featuring Anil Kapoor, Harshvardhan Kapoor, and Fatima Sana Shaikh. The plot unfolds in Munabao, a secluded Rajasthani village near the Pakistani border in the Thar desert, where a series of murders occur. Inspector Surekha Singh, an ambitious cop, relocates to the remote village to unravel the mystery behind the killings. As he digs deeper, the investigation reveals a complex web of conspiracy and deceit, ultimately exposing a well-crafted revenge scheme.
What sets “Thar” apart as a compelling Western is its exploration of various themes affecting the region. While Inspector Singh initially suspects gang violence, the narrative delves into nuanced issues such as infertility, cheating, and betrayal, challenging traditional Hindi cultural norms. This fresh perspective on the genre, situated in an unexpected location, adds a captivating layer to the storytelling, making “Thar” a standout neo-Western film.
The Electric Horseman (1979)
Built primarily on the charm and star power of Robert Redford, The Electric Horseman features the Hollywood legend portraying a down-on-his-luck former rodeo champion in desperate need of money. In a unique twist, he agrees to ride a thoroughbred for an advertising campaign but discovers the mistreatment and drugging of the horse. Outraged, he takes the horse on a journey, accompanied by conflicted journalist Alice (played by Jane Fonda), torn between exposing Redford’s rodeo past or assisting him.
What sets this film apart as a noteworthy Western is Sydney Pollack’s departure from the conventional focus on violence and machismo. Instead, The Electric Horseman presents a romantic narrative with sensibilities rarely seen in the genre. It offers a fresh perspective, injecting a somewhat rigid genre with a light, moving, and sentimental touch. If you’re in the mood for a Western that deviates from the norm and delivers a heartfelt story, The Electric Horseman should be at the top of your must-watch list.
Hold The Dark (2018)
Emerging from the realm of Jeremy Saulnier’s budget-conscious filmmaking, Hold The Dark adeptly demonstrates the art of building tension with limited resources. Against the ominous backdrop of an Alaskan village, the narrative follows Russell Core (played by Jeffrey Wright), an expert tasked with tracking a pack of wolves believed to be responsible for abducting and killing children.
The film evolves into a compelling Western as Core delves deeper into the unsettling mysteries of the Alaskan town. Initially, the storyline may seem somewhat dismissive, but as Core lingers, the enigma surrounding the wolves becomes increasingly eerie and twisted. Despite its seemingly absurd and mythical premise, the film maintains a realistic perspective, skillfully drawing parallels between hunters in nature and those in war. This effect is heightened by Magnus Nordenhof Jønck’s stark and pristine cinematography.
Mudbound (2017)
Mudbound, directed by Dee Rees, is a powerful film that delves into themes of racism and patriotism, deviating from the conventional Western genre. The movie cleverly incorporates Western tropes while adding layers of racism and drama. The narrative follows two war veterans returning to their rural Mississippi hometown, where they face racial abuse and discrimination.
What Makes It a Remarkable Western: Mudbound sheds light on the harsh reality faced by African American soldiers, who, despite their heroic contributions to the war, endure mistreatment and oppression upon their return. The film boasts outstanding performances, particularly from Carey Mulligan and Mary J. Blige. It’s a compelling watch for audiences of all genres and garnered four Academy Award nominations, including Best Supporting Actress (Blige), Best Adapted Screenplay, Best Cinematography, and Best Original Song.
Montford: The Chickasaw Rancher (2021)
Montford: The Chickasaw Rancher stands out as a compelling Western due to its grounding in reality. The film recounts the inspiring journey of Montford T. Johnson, a genuine pioneer who overcame significant challenges to build a cattle ranching empire along the renowned cattle highway. Unlike more widely recognized Westerns, Montford’s narrative may be lesser-known, but it weaves a powerful and relevant tale of resilience and triumph that resonates even in contemporary times.
The Killer (2017)
Classic Westerns typically unfold in settings featuring frontier towns, leading to the genre being closely associated with American cinema. However, the success of Italian spaghetti westerns demonstrates that foreign films can be equally compelling. “The Killer,” also known as “O Matador,” serves as an excellent example of an exceptional non-US Western. Hailing from Brazil, this film narrates the tale of a man raised in isolation by a bandit, rendering him rugged and unfamiliar with societal norms. As a trained killer, his journey into town, spurred by a desire to discover the fate of his mentor, sets the stage for a captivating narrative.
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The Ridiculous 6 (2015)
If you’re in the mood for an unconventional film, a comedy western might be just the ticket. Classics like Three Amigos, A Million Ways to Die in the West, and Maverick have made this subgenre quite popular. In one of the more recent entries, comedy icon Adam Sandler brings his trademark humor to The Ridiculous 6.
What Makes It a Standout Western The Ridiculous 6 is a comedic gem filled with laughter and clever parodies. The plot follows Sandler’s character as he discovers he has five brothers, and together, they embark on a humorous quest to save their real father. The film boasts an exceptional cast with stellar cameos from stars like Nick Nolte, Taylor Lautner, Harvey Keitel, and Steve Buscemi, adding to its comedic charm.
Legends of the Fall (1994)
The often overlooked film “Legends of the Fall,” featuring Brad Pitt and Anthony Hopkins, stands out as a unique historical epic that delves into the tapestry of Western history. While not a conventional Western, the movie provides a sweeping exploration of Montana’s evolution from the late 19th century through World War I, Prohibition, and into the early 1960s.
What sets it apart as a remarkable Western is its beautiful romantic narrative illuminated by stunning cinematography and a surprising commitment to historical accuracy. Despite being overshadowed by other epics of the ’90s, “Legends of the Fall” merits a critical reevaluation. The film weaves a heartfelt love story that continues to resonate even three decades later.
The Mule (2018)
Clint Eastwood embraced a rugged character in his later years with “The Mule,” a film he wrote and directed based on Sam Dolnick’s novel. The narrative follows a destitute and isolated man who becomes a drug mule for a Mexican cartel, attracting attention from a lively DEA agent due to his illicit activities.
Why It’s a Remarkable Western: “The Mule” offers two viewing perspectives. One can approach it sincerely, appreciating Eastwood’s departure from his conservative roles to delve into a compassionate character study of universal humanity at the Mexican border. Alternatively, it can be seen ironically as a cringe-worthy portrayal of a narcissist who sees himself as a hero.
Concrete Cowboy (2020)
Concrete Cowboy, a Netflix Original Film, is among the recent cinematic works that play with Western mythologies while giving them a contemporary twist. It unfolds in the genuine backdrop of North Philadelphia, where urban cowboys, predominantly people of color, rode the streets since the 1980s, notably depicted by the Fletcher Street Urban Riding Club.
The film’s brilliance as a Western lies in its choice of a modern setting, allowing filmmakers to transpose the genre’s narrative structure into recent history, specifically within a predominantly Black community. Idris Elba and Jharrel Jerome deliver outstanding performances in this unconventional drama that follows a modern-day cowboy’s quest to guide a spirited, young teenager.
The Highwaymen (2019)
The Highwaymen kicks off shortly after Bonnie and Clyde’s prison escape, featuring Kevin Costner and Woody Harrelson as iconic Texas Rangers. Tasked with bringing the notorious criminals to justice, Frank Hamer (Costner) leads the charge, enlisting his retired partner Maney Gault (Harrelson) for the pursuit. Despite facing challenges from the media and escalating danger, they persevere. What sets this Western apart is its fresh perspective, retelling the infamous Bonnie & Clyde story through the lens of Frank Hamer. John Fusco, the writer, aimed for authenticity, conducting thorough research in Texas, including interviews with Hamer’s son.
My Heroes Were Cowboys (2021)
An incredibly charming documentary that appeals to enthusiasts of Western cinema, “My Heroes Were Cowboys” traces the journey of Robin Wiltshire, a horse trainer who, in his childhood, overcame speech and reading challenges by immersing himself in Western movies and studying horses.
What Makes It Outstanding in the Western Genre Set against the breathtaking scenery of Wyoming in the American West, the film unfolds Wiltshire’s life narrative. It presents a serene exploration of an individual’s transformation, showcasing how horses, Western films, and love turned his silent struggles into profound passion and happiness. This documentary is a visually stunning and emotionally resonant portrayal of a remarkable life.
The Harder They Fall (2021)
In this action-packed, contemporary Western adventure boasting an ensemble of A-list actors, The Harder They Fall pits Jonathon Majors against Idris Elba in a gripping narrative of vengeance, rebellion, and liberty. The film encapsulates the quintessence of classic Westerns, featuring elements such as a thrilling train heist, a daring prison escape, and a tense quick-draw showdown. With a commendable rating on Rotten Tomatoes, it promises to captivate and surprise aficionados of the genre.
What sets this Western apart is its predominantly Black cast, brimming with stellar performances. Regina King (Friday), LaKieth Stanfield (Sorry to Bother You), Damon Wayans Jr. (New Girl), and Zazie Beetz (Joker) join forces to elevate the movie’s star power. The Harder They Fall follows Nat Love (Majors) on a relentless quest for retribution after Rufus Buck (Elba) brutally slays his family and marks him with a cross on his forehead. As Love becomes consumed by his quest for revenge, Buck establishes ruthless dominance over an outlaw town. Their second encounter unfolds as a full-fledged war for control of the West.
The Power of the Dog (2021)
Set in 1920s Montana, The Power of the Dog offers a postmodern take on the Western genre, garnering five Oscar nominations and earning acclaim as one of the standout films of 2021. Departing from conventional Western narratives, it shares similarities with unconventional films like No Country for Old Men and Brokeback Mountain. The movie, led by Benedict Cumberbatch as the assertive Phil Burbank, unfolds on a cattle ranch owned by Phil and his brother George (played by Jesse Plemons). The plot takes an unexpected turn when George falls for Rose Gordon (portrayed by Kirsten Dunst) and her son Peter (played by Kodi Smit-McPhee). Despite Phil’s initial hostility, the story reveals his unexpected vulnerability, leading to a stirring and emotionally charged experience. The Power of the Dog defies expectations, delivering a unique and impactful Western with a surprising conclusion that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.
The Ballad of Buster Scruggs (2018)
The Ballad of Buster Scruggs stands out as a unique entry in the Western genre, presenting an anthology of six short films that vary in tone from humor to profundity. While it may initially seem like a parody, a closer look reveals the meticulous construction by the Coen Brothers, turning it into a film worth watching. The anthology format, including two stories inspired by Jack London and Stewart Edward White, allows the Coen Brothers to play with and pay homage to the genre. Literary allusions are skillfully woven throughout, showcasing the filmmakers’ talent for crafting compelling narratives. The stellar cast, featuring Tim Blake Nelson as Buster Scruggs, along with Liam Neeson, James Franco, and Tom Waits, adds to the film’s appeal.
The Hateful Eight (2015)
Quentin Tarantino’s The Hateful Eight, initially overlooked, stands as an unappreciated masterpiece delving into the grim roots of American history, exploring themes of violence, bigotry, tribalism, and hatred. Set in the Old West during a blizzard, the film features a group of dubious characters trapped together, unraveling a tale of deception.
What makes it a noteworthy Western is its fusion of elements from films like The Thing and The Good, the Bad and the Ugly. This violent and visually stunning 70mm epic, clocking in at three hours, can also be experienced as a miniseries on Netflix, with an additional 30 minutes enhancing the narrative.
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