The Best 1960s Western Movies, Ranked
- 1Clint Eastwood, Eli Wallach, Lee Van Cleef
Directed by Sergio Leone, this epic tale follows three gunslingers, played by Clint Eastwood, Lee Van Cleef, and Eli Wallach, who are in search of hidden Confederate gold during the American Civil War. Each character represents a different moral standpoint, leading to a thrilling and suspenseful race for treasure. The film has become iconic for its stunning cinematography and memorable Ennio Morricone score, solidifying its place among the greatest films ever made.
- #4 of 27 onThe 25+ Best Civil War Movies Of All Time, Ranked
- #53 of 262 onThe 200+ Best War Movies Of All Time
- #2 of 288 onThe 250+ Best Western Movies Of All Time
- 2Yul Brynner, Eli Wallach, Steve McQueen
Inspired by Akira Kurosawa's Seven Samurai, this action-packed classic tells the story of seven gunfighters who come together to defend a Mexican village from bandits led by Calvera, played by Eli Wallach. Helmed by director John Sturges and featuring an ensemble cast, including Yul Brynner, Steve McQueen, and Charles Bronson, the movie met widespread acclaim for its engaging plot, memorable one-liners, and exceptional performances from its stars. Its enduring popularity led to three sequels and a 2016 remake, cementing its status as a timeless classic.
- #6 of 288 onThe 250+ Best Western Movies Of All Time
- #428 of 769 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #7 of 167 onThe Greatest '60s Movies, Ranked
- 3James Stewart, John Wayne, Vera Miles
This gripping drama, directed by John Ford, tells the story of a young lawyer, played by James Stewart, who becomes an unlikely hero when he confronts a ruthless outlaw (Lee Marvin) in a bid to bring justice to the town of Shinbone. With an outstanding supporting cast, including John Wayne as an aging gunslinger and Vera Miles as Stewart's love interest, the film explores the nature of heroism and the mythos of the Old West. It has since become one of Ford's most celebrated films and a classic of the era.
- #2 of 49 onThe Top 45+ Films Released In 1962
- #11 of 288 onThe 250+ Best Western Movies Of All Time
- #100 of 675 onThe Best Movies Roger Ebert Gave Four Stars
- 4Clint Eastwood, Lee Van Cleef, Sergio Leone
In this action-packed follow-up to A Fistful of Dollars, Clint Eastwood returns as the iconic Man with No Name, who teams up with another bounty hunter (Lee Van Cleef) to hunt down a ruthless bandit leader, played by Gian Maria Volontè. Directed by Sergio Leone and featuring another unforgettable Ennio Morricone score, the film has been praised for its complex narrative structure and groundbreaking portrayal of antiheroes. Its innovative style and influence on subsequent films make it an essential entry in the genre.
- #24 of 288 onThe 250+ Best Western Movies Of All Time
- #443 of 769 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #39 of 164 onThe Best Movie Sequels Ever Made
- 5John Wayne, James Caan, Robert Mitchum
Reuniting director Howard Hawks and actor John Wayne, this compelling drama follows the struggles of a gunfighter and a drunk sheriff who team up to save a rancher's family from a greedy landowner. Featuring an engaging storyline and superb performances from a star-studded cast, including Robert Mitchum and James Caan, the movie is often considered a spiritual sequel to the equally acclaimed Rio Bravo. Its intricate characters and witty dialogue make it a must-see for fans of the genre.
More El Dorado
- Dig Deeper...The Real Story Of El Dorado
- #20 of 288 onThe 250+ Best Western Movies Of All Time
- #1 of 13 onThe Best Western Movies Streaming On Hulu
- 6Paul Newman, Robert Redford, Katharine Ross
This beloved classic stars Paul Newman and Robert Redford as the titular outlaws, whose daring exploits and close friendship make them folk heroes in the waning days of the Old West. Directed by George Roy Hill and featuring an Oscar-winning screenplay by William Goldman, the film is renowned for its lighthearted take on the genre, blending humor, action, and romance in equal measure. Together with its memorable cinematography and Burt Bacharach score, it remains one of the most cherished films of its era.
- #12 of 288 onThe 250+ Best Western Movies Of All Time
- #253 of 769 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #37 of 241 onThe 200+ Best Movies Based On A True Story
- 7Clint Eastwood, Gian Maria Volonté, Aldo Sambrell
Marking the beginning of the "Dollars Trilogy," this groundbreaking film introduced audiences to Clint Eastwood's iconic character, the Man with No Name, a mysterious gunslinger who plays two rival families against each other in a small Mexican town. Directed by Sergio Leone and inspired by Akira Kurosawa's Yojimbo, it has been hailed as one of the first "Spaghetti Westerns" and credited with redefining the genre. Its success paved the way for Eastwood's storied career and influenced countless subsequent films.
More A Fistful of Dollars- #13 of 288 onThe 250+ Best Western Movies Of All Time
- #110 of 122 onThe Greatest Movie Quotes Of All Time
- #23 of 191 onThe Best Movies For Men
- 8John Wayne, Glen Campbell, Kim Darby
Based on the novel by Charles Portis, this gritty tale follows a young woman (Kim Darby) who enlists the help of a hard-drinking US Marshal (John Wayne) and a Texas Ranger (Glen Campbell) to track down her father's killer. Directed by Henry Hathaway and featuring an Oscar-winning performance from Wayne, the film has become a beloved classic due to its strong characterizations and vivid portrayal of the Old West. Its enduring appeal led to a 2010 remake by the Coen Brothers, further demonstrating the timeless nature of its story.
More True Grit- #5 of 288 onThe 250+ Best Western Movies Of All Time
- #59 of 675 onThe Best Movies Roger Ebert Gave Four Stars
- #12 of 167 onThe Greatest '60s Movies, Ranked
- 9William Holden, Ernest Borgnine, Robert Ryan
Directed by Sam Peckinpah and featuring a stellar ensemble cast, including William Holden, Ernest Borgnine, and Robert Ryan, this violent and morally ambiguous tale follows an aging gang of outlaws as they attempt one last score amidst the changing landscape of the West. Renowned for its visceral action sequences and controversial use of slow-motion, the film has been both criticized and celebrated for its depiction of brutality. Over time, it has become an influential classic that pushed the boundaries of the genre.
More The Wild Bunch- #38 of 288 onThe 250+ Best Western Movies Of All Time
- #93 of 191 onThe Best Movies For Men
- #35 of 167 onThe Greatest '60s Movies, Ranked
- 10Henry Fonda, Claudia Cardinale, Charles Bronson
Widely regarded as one of Sergio Leone's masterpieces, this epic western stars Charles Bronson as a harmonica-playing gunslinger seeking revenge against a ruthless killer, played by Henry Fonda. With its stunning cinematography and trademark Ennio Morricone score, the film has been lauded for its visual storytelling and ability to invest familiar archetypes with depth and emotion. Its powerful narrative and unforgettable characters have made it a must-see for fans of the genre.
- #29 of 288 onThe 250+ Best Western Movies Of All Time
- #112 of 191 onThe Best Movies For Men
- #27 of 167 onThe Greatest '60s Movies, Ranked
- 11Clint Eastwood, Inger Stevens, Ed Begley
In this gripping tale of revenge and justice, Clint Eastwood stars as a former lawman who survives a lynching and sets out to bring his would-be executioners to justice. Directed by Ted Post, the film is notable for being the first production from Eastwood's Malpaso Company and showcasing the talents of an up-and-coming Inger Stevens. With its compelling story and strong performances, it remains a standout entry in the era's canon.
More Hang 'Em High- #22 of 288 onThe 250+ Best Western Movies Of All Time
- #37 of 167 onThe Greatest '60s Movies, Ranked
- #10 of 45 onThe Best Movies Starring Clint Eastwood
- 12John Wayne, Dean Martin, Martha Hyer
John Wayne and Dean Martin lead an ensemble cast in this engaging tale of four brothers who return home to avenge their murdered father and reclaim their family's ranch. Directed by Henry Hathaway and featuring an emotionally charged script by William H. Wright and Allan Weiss, the film explores themes of brotherhood, loyalty, and redemption. With its standout performances and heartfelt storytelling, it has become a favorite among fans of the genre.
- #23 of 288 onThe 250+ Best Western Movies Of All Time
- #4 of 13 onThe Best Western Movies Streaming On Hulu
- #6 of 94 onThe Best Western Movies on Amazon Prime
- 13John Wayne, Maureen O'Hara, Yvonne De Carlo
In this lighthearted romp, John Wayne stars as a wealthy cattle baron whose estranged wife returns to town, leading to a series of comedic misunderstandings and romantic entanglements. Directed by Andrew V. McLaglen and featuring a talented supporting cast, including Maureen O'Hara and Stefanie Powers, the film showcases Wayne's comedic talents and is beloved for its slapstick humor. Its enduring charm has made it a popular choice for fans seeking a lighter take on the genre.
More McLintock!- #37 of 288 onThe 250+ Best Western Movies Of All Time
- #11 of 51 onThe 50+ Best Movies In Public Domain
- #20 of 79 onThe Best '60s Comedy Movies, Ranked
- 14Carroll Baker, Lee J. Cobb, Henry Fonda
This sprawling epic traces the lives and fortunes of several generations of a family as they make their way across the American West. Featuring an all-star cast, including James Stewart, John Wayne, and Gregory Peck, and directed by three of Hollywood's top filmmakers - John Ford, Henry Hathaway, and George Marshall - the film stood out for its innovative use of the Cinerama widescreen process. With its grand scope and ambitious storytelling, it remains a landmark achievement in the genre.
More How the West Was Won- #7 of 49 onThe Top 45+ Films Released In 1962
- #46 of 288 onThe 250+ Best Western Movies Of All Time
- #41 of 167 onThe Greatest '60s Movies, Ranked
- 15James Garner, Joan Hackett, Walter Brennan
In this comedic twist on traditional western tropes, James Garner stars as a down-on-his-luck gunslinger who is mistaken for a skilled lawman and appointed sheriff of a chaotic frontier town. Directed by Burt Kennedy, the film playfully pokes fun at classic genre clichés while still delivering an engaging story and memorable characters. Its charm and wit have made it a beloved entry in the canon and a favorite among fans.
- #54 of 288 onThe 250+ Best Western Movies Of All Time
- #368 of 704 onThe All-Time Greatest Comedy Films
- #17 of 30 onThe Best Comedy Western Movies Of All Time
- 16John Wayne, Stuart Whitman, Lee Marvin
In this action-packed adventure, John Wayne stars as a Texas Ranger who teams up with a roguish gambler, played by Stuart Whitman, to take down a deadly gang of gunrunners and their Native American allies. Directed by Michael Curtiz, the film boasts impressive action sequences and standout performances from its leading men. With its thrilling plot and engaging characters, it remains a favorite among fans of the era.
More The Comancheros- #42 of 288 onThe 250+ Best Western Movies Of All Time
- #23 of 46 onThe Best '60s Action Movies
- #8 of 47 onThe 45+ Best Movies of 1961
- 17
Hombre
Paul Newman, Fredric March, Richard BooneBased on the novel by Elmore Leonard, this tense drama follows a reluctant hero, played by Paul Newman, who must protect a group of stagecoach passengers from a gang of ruthless outlaws. Directed by Martin Ritt and featuring a strong supporting cast, including Richard Boone and Diane Cilento, the film has been praised for its nuanced portrayal of race and morality in the Old West. Its thought-provoking themes and powerful performances make it an essential entry in the genre.
More Hombre- #57 of 288 onThe 250+ Best Western Movies Of All Time
- #11 of 37 onThe 35+ Best Movies of 1967
- #4 of 20 onThe Best Movies Based On Elmore Leonard Books
- 18James Stewart, Doug McClure, Glenn Corbett
Set against the backdrop of the Civil War, this poignant drama stars James Stewart as a Virginia farmer who struggles to protect his family from the ravages of war. Directed by Andrew V. McLaglen and featuring a strong supporting cast, including Doug McClure and Glenn Corbett, the film offers a moving exploration of the human cost of conflict. Its powerful themes and emotional performances have made it a standout entry in the genre.
More Shenandoah- #7 of 27 onThe 25+ Best Civil War Movies Of All Time, Ranked
- #49 of 288 onThe 250+ Best Western Movies Of All Time
- #247 of 308 onThe 295+ Best Movies For Guys
- 19Omar Sharif, Gregory Peck, Julie Newmar
Gregory Peck stars as a lawman who is forced to lead a group of outlaws, including Omar Sharif and Telly Savalas, to a hidden cache of gold in this sweeping adventure. Directed by J. Lee Thompson, the film is notable for its gorgeous cinematography, colorful ensemble cast, and high-stakes treasure hunt storyline. Despite mixed reviews upon its release, it has since become a cult favorite for fans of the genre.
- 20John Wayne, Kirk Douglas, Howard Keel
In this high-energy caper, John Wayne and Kirk Douglas star as former rivals who team up to steal a heavily guarded gold transport. Directed by Burt Kennedy, the film is known for its thrilling action sequences, witty dialogue, and memorable chemistry between its leading men. With its blend of adventure, humor, and camaraderie, it has become a favorite among fans seeking a lighter take on the genre.
More The War Wagon- #47 of 288 onThe 250+ Best Western Movies Of All Time
- #20 of 49 onThe Best Movies With War in the Title
- #20 of 46 onThe Best '60s Action Movies
- 21John Wayne, Richard Widmark, Laurence Harvey
Directed by and starring John Wayne, this epic historical drama tells the story of the 1836 siege of the Alamo, where a small group of Texan defenders made a heroic stand against overwhelming Mexican forces. Featuring an ensemble cast, including Richard Widmark, Laurence Harvey, and Richard Boone, the film is a grand spectacle, with impressive battle sequences and a rousing Dimitri Tiomkin score. Its stirring portrayal of courage and sacrifice have made it an enduring classic.
More The Alamo- #87 of 262 onThe 200+ Best War Movies Of All Time
- #44 of 288 onThe 250+ Best Western Movies Of All Time
- #64 of 167 onThe Greatest '60s Movies, Ranked
- 22Lee Marvin, Burt Lancaster, Claudia Cardinale
In this action-packed adventure, a group of skilled mercenaries, played by Burt Lancaster, Lee Marvin, Robert Ryan, and Woody Strode, are hired to rescue a kidnapped woman from a Mexican revolutionary. Directed by Richard Brooks, the film stands out for its engaging plot, sharp dialogue, and standout performances from its ensemble cast. With its combination of excitement, intrigue, and moral complexity, it remains an essential entry in the genre.
More The Professionals- #72 of 288 onThe 250+ Best Western Movies Of All Time
- #96 of 167 onThe Greatest '60s Movies, Ranked
- #11 of 41 onThe 40+ Best Movies of 1966
- 23
The Unforgiven
Burt Lancaster, Audrey Hepburn, Lillian GishDirected by John Huston, this powerful drama stars Burt Lancaster and Audrey Hepburn as siblings whose family is torn apart by long-buried secrets and racial tensions in the Old West. Featuring an outstanding supporting cast, including Audie Murphy and Lillian Gish, the film tackles difficult themes, such as prejudice, identity, and guilt. Its thought-provoking narrative and strong performances make it a standout among its contemporaries.
More The Unforgiven- #98 of 288 onThe 250+ Best Western Movies Of All Time
- #116 of 167 onThe Greatest '60s Movies, Ranked
- #35 of 58 onThe Best '90s Westerns, Ranked
- 24Randolph Scott, Nancy Gates, Claude Akins
In this suspenseful tale, Randolph Scott stars as a lone cowboy who rescues a woman from her Comanche captors, only to face danger from both the vengeful tribe and deceitful fellow travelers. Directed by Budd Boetticher, the film is part of the director's acclaimed "Ranown Cycle" with Scott and showcases their collaborative prowess. With its taut storytelling and intriguing moral dilemmas, it has become a classic of the genre.
More Comanche Station- #210 of 288 onThe 250+ Best Western Movies Of All Time
- #51 of 94 onThe Best Western Movies on Amazon Prime
- #399 of 419 onThe 400+ Best Movies Produced By Columbia Pictures
- 25Steve McQueen, Karl Malden, Brian Keith
Steve McQueen stars as a vengeful young gunslinger on a quest to hunt down the men who murdered his family in this thrilling western directed by Henry Hathaway. Adapted from a Harold Robbins novel, the film features a talented supporting cast, including Karl Malden, Brian Keith, and Arthur Kennedy. Its relentless pace and McQueen's magnetic performance make it an essential entry in the era's catalog.
More Nevada Smith- #64 of 288 onThe 250+ Best Western Movies Of All Time
- #103 of 167 onThe Greatest '60s Movies, Ranked
- #9 of 41 onThe 40+ Best Movies of 1966
- 26
Ride the High Country
Randolph Scott, Joel McCrea, Mariette HartleyDirected by Sam Peckinpah, this elegiac tale follows two aging lawmen, played by Randolph Scott and Joel McCrea, who find themselves at odds when they take on one last job together. Blending action, drama, and contemplative introspection, the film explores themes of loyalty, morality, and the passage of time. Often considered one of Peckinpah's finest works, it remains a deeply resonant entry in the genre.
- #36 of 49 onThe Top 45+ Films Released In 1962
- #104 of 288 onThe 250+ Best Western Movies Of All Time
- #2 of 11 onThe Best James Drury Movies
- 27John Wayne, Rock Hudson, Tony Aguilar
John Wayne and Rock Hudson star as former Civil War enemies who must set aside their differences to lead a group of ex-Confederates and Union soldiers across the perilous Mexican frontier. Directed by Andrew V. McLaglen, the film offers an engaging mix of action, adventure, and uneasy alliances. With its blend of historical drama and rugged heroism, it remains a favorite among fans of the genre.
More The Undefeated- #22 of 27 onThe 25+ Best Civil War Movies Of All Time, Ranked
- #71 of 288 onThe 250+ Best Western Movies Of All Time
- #7 of 49 onThe 45+ Best Movies Of 1969
- 28Jane Fonda, Lee Marvin, Michael Callan
In this lighthearted comedy, Jane Fonda stars as a schoolteacher-turned-outlaw who enlists the help of a drunk gunslinger, played by Lee Marvin, to avenge her father's murder. Directed by Elliot Silverstein, the film stands out for its whimsical tone and satirical approach to traditional western tropes. With its blend of humor, romance, and excitement, it has become a beloved classic.
More Cat Ballou- #77 of 288 onThe 250+ Best Western Movies Of All Time
- #294 of 704 onThe All-Time Greatest Comedy Films
- #62 of 167 onThe Greatest '60s Movies, Ranked
- 29Charlton Heston, Joan Hackett, Donald Pleasence
Charlton Heston stars as an aging cowboy who finds unexpected love and redemption when he takes on the responsibility of protecting a woman and her son from a gang of outlaws. Directed by Tom Gries, the film is notable for its tender characterizations and poignant exploration of the harsh realities of life in the Old West. With its combination of romance, adventure, and human drama, it has become a beloved classic.
- 30James Garner, Jason Robards, Robert Ryan
This gripping drama, inspired by the real-life events surrounding the famous gunfight at the O.K. Corral, stars James Garner as Wyatt Earp, who seeks vengeance for the murder of his brothers. Directed by John Sturges, the film stands out for its gritty realism, complex characters, and exceptional performances from its leading men, including Jason Robards as Doc Holliday. With its compelling narrative and thought-provoking themes, it remains a standout entry in the genre.
