The 35+ Best PG Family Friendly Western Movies
- 1Clint Eastwood, Chief Dan George, Sondra Locke
Directed by and starring Clint Eastwood, this epic adventure follows the titular character, a farmer turned outlaw navigating the post-Civil War American landscape. Riddled with unforgettable dialogue and pulse-pounding action sequences, Josey Wales forms alliances with outcasts from different backgrounds in his battle against the cruel Redlegs militia. This gritty yet soulful classic showcases Eastwood at his finest.
- #3 of 27 onThe 25+ Best Civil War Movies Of All Time, Ranked
- #4 of 288 onThe 250+ Best Western Movies Of All Time
- #500 of 769 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- 2Paul Newman, Robert Redford, Katharine Ross
A tale of outlaws for the ages, this classic stars the dynamic duo of Paul Newman and Robert Redford as the titular bandits. With sharp wit and engaging banter, these unlikely heroes navigate a world of fast horses, daring train robberies, and relentless lawmen. The chemistry between Newman and Redford elevates this film to an unforgettable status in the annals of Western cinema.
- #12 of 288 onThe 250+ Best Western Movies Of All Time
- #250 of 769 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #5 of 167 onThe Greatest '60s Movies, Ranked
- 3John Wayne, Roscoe Lee Browne, Bruce Dern
John Wayne stars as rancher Wil Andersen, who must rely on a group of untested boys to help drive his cattle after his regular crew abandons him for a gold rush. Against all odds, the youngsters rise to the occasion under Wayne's gruff guidance, eventually facing off against a merciless gang of rustlers led by Bruce Dern. This heartwarming tale of camaraderie and resilience in the face of adversity is a testament to the indomitable human spirit.
More The Cowboys
- #20 of 288 onThe 250+ Best Western Movies Of All Time
- #7 of 44 onThe Best 1970s Westerns, Ranked
- #39 of 92 onThe Best '70s Action Movies
- 4Kirk Douglas, Tom Burlinson, Sigrid Thornton
This enchanting Australian Western features a young Tom Burlinson as the fearless horseman Jim Craig, determined to prove his worth after the tragic loss of his father. Based on the famous poem by Banjo Paterson, this sweeping adventure is filled with stunning vistas, thrilling horsemanship, and heartfelt performances by Burlinson, Sigrid Thornton, and Kirk Douglas in dual roles.
- #65 of 288 onThe 250+ Best Western Movies Of All Time
- #359 of 399 onThe Best Movies Of The 1980s, Ranked
- #40 of 67 onThe Best Movies Of 1982
- 5Robert Redford, Will Geer, Stefan Gierasch
Robert Redford stars as a mountain man seeking solace and survival skills in the wilds of the American West. This ruggedly beautiful film showcases the breathtaking landscapes of the Rocky Mountains while highlighting the trials and tribulations of frontier living. As Redford's Jeremiah Johnson encounters various colorful characters, including the fierce Will Geer as a fellow trapper, the story unfolds into a captivating odyssey of personal growth and redemption.
More Jeremiah Johnson- #13 of 288 onThe 250+ Best Western Movies Of All Time
- #71 of 199 onThe Best Movies Of The '70s, Ranked
- #22 of 66 onThe 60+ Best Native American Movies
- 6John Wayne, Lauren Bacall, James Stewart
In his final movie role, John Wayne delivers a poignant and powerful performance as the aging gunslinger J.B. Books, diagnosed with terminal cancer and looking for a dignified way to go out. Directed by Don Siegel and featuring an exceptional supporting cast that includes James Stewart, Lauren Bacall, and Ron Howard, this nuanced exploration of mortality and legacy is both a stirring tribute to Wayne's career and a thoughtful reflection on the Western genre itself.
More The Shootist- #18 of 288 onThe 250+ Best Western Movies Of All Time
- #114 of 149 onMovies That Should Never Be Remade
- #118 of 199 onThe Best Movies Of The '70s, Ranked
- 7Paul Newman, Victoria Principal, Anthony Perkins
Starring Paul Newman as the legendary frontier lawman, this film follows the colorful and controversial exploits of Judge Roy Bean as he dispenses his own unique brand of justice in a small Texas town. With a star-studded supporting cast, including Victoria Principal, Jacqueline Bisset, and Ava Gardner, this intriguing exploration of myth versus reality in the Old West offers a captivating blend of humor, romance, and action.
- 8John Wayne, Katharine Hepburn, Anthony Zerbe
In this spirited sequel to True Grit, John Wayne reprises his role as the one-eyed U.S. Marshal, this time forced to team up with Katharine Hepburn's feisty missionary Eula Goodnight. As they track down a ruthless outlaw and his gang, the unlikely pair find themselves battling not only the harsh elements but also their tempestuous personalities. With top-notch performances by Wayne and Hepburn, this film showcases the best of Western cinema.
More Rooster Cogburn- #41 of 288 onThe 250+ Best Western Movies Of All Time
- #118 of 149 onMovies That Should Never Be Remade
- #62 of 199 onThe Best Movies Of The '70s, Ranked
- 9Tom Berenger, Barbara Hershey, Kurtwood Smith
A captivating blend of Western and adventure genres, Tom Berenger plays a bounty hunter who discovers a tribe of Native Americans hidden deep in the mountains of Montana. Alongside anthropologist Barbara Hershey, he must navigate the delicate balance between honoring the past and protecting the future. This thought-provoking film delves into themes of cultural preservation, redemption, and the strength of human connection.
More Last of the Dogmen- #9 of 66 onThe 60+ Best Native American Movies
- #19 of 62 onThe 60+ Best Movies Set in Montana
- #89 of 203 onThe 200 Best PG Indie Movies
- 10Brian Dennehy, Bryan Marshall, Sigrid Thornton
A worthy follow-up to the beloved original, Tom Burlinson once again takes the reins as Jim Craig, now facing new challenges and romantic entanglements. Filled with breathtaking scenery and exhilarating equestrian feats, this sequel further explores themes of love, determination, and the enduring spirit of the Australian frontier.
- 11Lee Van Cleef, Stefanie Powers, Mariette Hartley
The thrilling conclusion of the classic series, Lee Van Cleef takes over the lead role as gunslinger Chris Adams, now a tough but fair marshal. When a friend's town is threatened by marauding bandits, Adams assembles a new group of seven disparate outcasts to save the day. Filled with action, humor, and redemption, this final installment upholds the proud legacy of the original.
- #103 of 112 onThe Greatest Movie Remakes Of All Time
- #22 of 46 onThe Best Movies With Seven in the Title
- #14 of 41 onThe 40+ Best Movies of 1972
- 12Mel Gibson, Jodie Foster, James Garner
Mel Gibson steps into the boots of the charming gambler Bret Maverick in this big-screen adaptation of the popular TV series. Joined by Jodie Foster and James Garner, Gibson navigates a high-stakes poker tournament filled with colorful characters, unexpected twists, and plenty of laughs. This lighthearted romp is a winning combination of Western adventure and clever comedy.
More Maverick- #60 of 288 onThe 250+ Best Western Movies Of All Time
- #417 of 769 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #13 of 85 onThe Best Movies Of 1994
- 13John Wayne, George Kennedy, Scott Walker
John Wayne takes on the role of a tough, no-nonsense lawman who must balance his dedication to duty with his responsibilities as a father when his sons are drawn into a dangerous criminal plot. Featuring dynamic performances from Wayne and co-star George Kennedy, this human interest-driven Western offers a compelling blend of heartfelt drama and high-stakes action.
More Cahill U.S. Marshal- #68 of 288 onThe 250+ Best Western Movies Of All Time
- #6 of 44 onThe Best 1970s Westerns, Ranked
- #31 of 59 onThe 55+ Best Movies Of 1973
- 14Clint Eastwood, Shirley MacLaine, Armando Silvestre
Clint Eastwood and Shirley MacLaine form an unlikely alliance in this unconventional Western, with Eastwood's hard-edged drifter teaming up with MacLaine's gun-toting nun to help Mexican rebels against French invaders. Directed by Don Siegel, this engaging tale combines tense action sequences, stunning landscapes, and humorous banter between its two iconic stars.
- #40 of 288 onThe 250+ Best Western Movies Of All Time
- #15 of 45 onThe Best Movies Starring Clint Eastwood
- #5 of 44 onThe Best 1970s Westerns, Ranked
- 15
Joe Kidd
Clint Eastwood, Robert Duvall, John SaxonClint Eastwood stars as the titular character, a former bounty hunter caught in the middle of a conflict between landowners and Mexican revolutionaries led by John Saxon. Combining elements of a traditional Western with political intrigue and social commentary, this thrilling film delivers gripping action sequences and showcases Eastwood's signature cool charisma.
More Joe Kidd- #61 of 288 onThe 250+ Best Western Movies Of All Time
- #25 of 45 onThe Best Movies Starring Clint Eastwood
- #9 of 44 onThe Best 1970s Westerns, Ranked
- 16Chevy Chase, Steve Martin, Martin Short
This laugh-out-loud comedy features Steve Martin, Chevy Chase, and Martin Short as three clueless silent film stars mistaken for real-life heroes by a small Mexican village. As they attempt to save the town from a ruthless bandit, the bumbling trio stumbles through hilarious misadventures and slapstick gags. This good-natured spoof pays homage to classic Western tropes with charm and wit.
More ¡Three Amigos!- #207 of 288 onThe 250+ Best Western Movies Of All Time
- #93 of 399 onThe Best Movies Of The 1980s, Ranked
- #33 of 232 onThe Best '80s Comedy Movies, Ranked
- 17Jackie Chan, Steve Coogan, Cécile De France
While not a traditional Western, this lively adaptation of Jules Verne's classic novel takes viewers around the globe, including a memorable stop in the American West. With a star-studded cast led by Jackie Chan and Steve Coogan, this grand-scale adventure delivers a lighthearted mix of comedy, action, and breathtaking scenery.
- 18Charles Bronson, Ben Johnson, Jill Ireland
Charles Bronson stars in this rugged Western adventure as a mysterious prisoner onboard a train traveling through the untamed Sierra Nevada Mountains. With a deadly conspiracy unfolding among the passengers, Bronson's character must use his cunning and survival skills to expose the truth and save the day. Featuring tense action and breathtaking landscapes, this film offers a thrilling ride from start to finish.
More Breakheart Pass- #143 of 288 onThe 250+ Best Western Movies Of All Time
- #17 of 48 onThe Best Train Movies
- #24 of 44 onThe Best 1970s Westerns, Ranked
- 19John Wayne, Ann-Margret, Rod Taylor
Starring John Wayne and Ann-Margret, this thrilling Western follows a group of aging outlaws on a mission to recover stolen gold hidden in the dangerous Mexican desert. As they navigate treacherous terrain, betrayals, and relentless pursuit by their enemies, the seasoned veterans prove they still have what it takes to survive in the Old West.
- 20Johnny Depp, Isla Fisher, Abigail Breslin
This imaginative, animated Western features the charming voice talents of Johnny Depp as Rango, an ordinary chameleon who inadvertently becomes the sheriff of a drought-ridden desert town. Brimming with visual flair and quirky humor, this delightful family-friendly adventure explores themes of identity and heroism while paying homage to the traditional Western genre.
More Rango- #247 of 288 onThe 250+ Best Western Movies Of All Time
- #172 of 452 onThe 400+ Best Animated Kids Movies
- #98 of 155 onThe 150+ Best Classic Tween Movies
- 21Rod Steiger, James Coburn, Romolo Valli
Co-written and directed by legendary Sergio Leone, this intense Western features James Coburn and Rod Steiger as an Irish explosives expert and Mexican bandit who form an unlikely alliance during the Mexican Revolution. Filled with Leone's trademark epic storytelling, powerful performances, and stunning visuals, this gripping tale examines the complexities of loyalty, friendship, and revolution.
More Duck, You Sucker!- #248 of 288 onThe 250+ Best Western Movies Of All Time
- #165 of 191 onThe Best Movies For Men
- #169 of 228 onThe 200+ Best Film Scores Of All Time
- 22Kirk Douglas, Bruce Dern, Bo Hopkins
Posse follows the story of Howard Nightingale, a U.S. Marshal, who seeks to boost his political career by capturing the notorious outlaw Jack Strawhorn. The film delves into the complex relationship between lawmen and outlaws, with Nightingale's posse being a mix of both. With unexpected twists and turns, Posse showcases the harsh realities of the Wild West and the lengths individuals will go to achieve power and recognition.
- 23Audie Murphy, Faith Domergue, Stephen McNally
Audie Murphy and Stephen McNally star in this classic Western about a young gunslinger and a seasoned marshal joining forces to put an end to a ruthless gang of claim jumpers. Featuring thrilling action sequences and the rugged landscapes of Arizona, this film is a testament to the enduring appeal of good versus evil in the Old West.
- 24Clint Eastwood, Sondra Locke, Scatman Crothers
Clint Eastwood directs and stars in this charming ode to the Western genre, playing a modern-day cowboy running a struggling Wild West show. As he strives to keep his dream alive amid numerous obstacles, the arrival of a runaway heiress played by Sondra Locke ignites new possibilities and challenges. This heartfelt film celebrates the enduring appeal of the Old West in contemporary times.
- 25Burt Lancaster, Robert Ryan, Lee J. Cobb
Burt Lancaster stars in this compelling Western as a tenacious marshal dedicated to bringing a group of rowdy cowboys to justice for their destructive behavior. With its gritty realism, moral ambiguity, and strong characterizations, this film delves into the darker aspects of frontier life while offering a riveting showdown between duty and personal satisfaction.
More Lawman- #134 of 288 onThe 250+ Best Western Movies Of All Time
- #13 of 44 onThe Best 1970s Westerns, Ranked
- #12 of 93 onThe Best Western Movies on Amazon Prime
- 26Klinton Spilsbury, Michael Horse, Christopher Lloyd
This ambitious retelling of the classic masked hero's origin story stars Klinton Spilsbury and Christopher Lloyd, bringing to life the adventures of the iconic Lone Ranger and his trusty companion Tonto. With breathtaking cinematography, sweeping vistas, and pulse-pounding action sequences, this film captures the timeless spirit of the legendary crime-fighting duo.
- #51 of 75 onThe Best Movies Of 1981
- #30 of 38 onThe Best '80s Western Movies
- #79 of 136 onThe Best Bromance Movies
- 27Henry Fonda, Terence Hill, Jean Martin
This tongue-in-cheek spaghetti Western stars Terence Hill as a quirky gunslinger who idolizes the legendary Henry Fonda's character, an aging gunfighter seeking to retire in peace. Directed by Tonino Valerii and produced by Sergio Leone, this lighthearted film mixes laughter, memorable characters, and plenty of gunplay, making it a unique addition to the genre.
- 28Tom Selleck, Sam Elliott, Katharine Ross
Tom Selleck and Sam Elliott join forces in this engaging Western, playing brothers determined to rescue their kidnapped family members from ruthless outlaws. Facing danger at every turn, the duo's brotherly bond and unyielding determination provide the backbone of this suspenseful, action-packed tale.
- 29Leonard Nimoy, Jack Elam, Ben Johnson
This made-for-television film revisits the beloved Cartwright family from the long-running TV series, as they face a dangerous group of outlaws targeting the Ponderosa ranch. With original cast members Lorne Greene and Michael Landon reprising their roles, this nostalgic continuation offers a heartwarming return for fans of the iconic show.
- 30Tom Berenger, Sela Ward, Andy Griffith
A loving parody of classic B-movie Westerns, this humorous film stars Tom Berenger as a sharp-shooting hero who must rescue a struggling town from a ruthless cattle baron. Filled with clever dialogue, hilarious gags, and tongue-in-cheek references to the genre, Rustlers' Rhapsody is a light-hearted, entertaining ode to the Westerns of the past.
