Top 10 Western Films
By Chris Traficante
There's something intriguing about open terrains, galloping horses and bitter men, particularly on the silver screen. So, here's my top 10 western films list:
1. High Noon
Gary Cooper is brilliant as Will Kane. He's alone and against all odds. By far, the greatest western film of all time.
2. The Good, the Bad and the Ugly
Sergio Leone's tale is one of the greatest ever told in cinema. This three-part vigilante narrative is made all the more intriguing by each outlaw's quirks, as well as their individual quests for gold hidden in a cemetery.
3. Once Upon a Time in the West
Once again, Sergio Leone proves that he is the master of the western genre with this intense, melancholic tale about a widow, a killer, a vigilante and a harmonica.
4. Tombstone
Val Kilmer. Enough said.
5. The Proposition
John Hillcoat's gritty tale about murder, revenge and justice is nothing short of poetic. Set on the backdrop of a harsh late 19th century Australian outback, Hillcoat's imagery and performances are nothing short of beautiful and gritty.
6. For a Few Dollars More
Leone truly is the master.
7. The Magnificent Seven
A brilliant story about seven rogue heroes defending a remote Mexican village under siege. Another brilliant film from John Sturges!
8. Unforgiven
Clint Eastwood's work in front of - and behind - the camera here is magnificent. Alongside
Tombstone and
Dead Man, this is one of the last great Hollywood westerns.
9. Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid
In George Roy Hill's film, Paul Newman (as Butch Cassidy) and Robert Redford (as the Sundance Kid) are, quite possibly, the best western duo of any kind in Hollywood cinema.
10. Dead Man
This is a fantastic, slightly quirky black and white murder tale from Jim Jarmusch. His narrative is beautiful; imagery is always serene and his soundtrack always brooding.