The Best Western Movies Of The '70s
The Western is one of the most important genres in cinema history. It redefined what it meant to be a hero, and it redefined how stories were told on camera. Though the great Western heroes were on their way out in the '70s, it was still a tremendous decade for the genre. These are the best '70s Western movies, ranked from best to worst by fan votes. Some of these great 1970s Westerns fall in the line with the classic Western storyline of a lone gunman saving the day, while others on this list are uproarious comedies that almost flip the genre on its head.
What are some of the movies one can expect to find on this list? Throughout the 1970s, Clint Eastwood served as a cowboy for a new generation. Some of his best films, including The Outlaw Josey Wales, High Plains Drifter, and Two Mules for Sister Sara, all came out during the decade. The Frisco Kid is another good Western movie that was released in the 1970s.
Blazing Saddles is not only one of the best Westerns of the 70s, but it is still considered one of the funniest films of all time. Other great movies featured here include Westworld, The Shootist, and Jeremiah Johnson.
What is the best Western from the 70s?? Give the best movies a thumbs up and please add any great cowboy films you think might be missing from this list!
- 1Clint Eastwood, Chief Dan George, Sondra Locke
- Released: 1976
- Directed by: Clint Eastwood
Directed by Clint Eastwood, this film follows the tale of a Missouri farmer who seeks vengeance on the Union soldiers that murdered his family and burned his home during the Civil War. Josey Wales becomes an outlaw after joining a group of Confederate guerrillas, but later tries to start anew when he discovers a new community. As he finally finds peace and solace, he must decide whether or not to confront his past once more as his enemies catch up to him.
- 2Robert Redford, Will Geer, Stefan Gierasch
- Released: 1972
- Directed by: Sydney Pollack
This epic adventure follows the life of a rugged mountain man, played by Robert Redford, who has turned away from civilization to live in the wilderness. After encountering numerous hardships and challenges, he gains the respect and wisdom of the Native Americans he encounters. However, when tragedy strikes, Jeremiah Johnson must choose between seeking bloody revenge or maintaining the peaceful life he once sought.
- 3Clint Eastwood, Verna Bloom, Marianna Hill
- Released: 1973
- Directed by: Clint Eastwood
Clint Eastwood directs and stars in this enigmatic tale about a mysterious stranger who arrives in the desolate town of Lago, where he is promptly hired to protect the townspeople from three gunfighters seeking retribution. As the drifter teaches the townspeople to defend themselves, the lines between good and evil become increasingly blurred. The film explores themes of justice, vengeance, and redemption, ultimately culminating in an unforgettable climax.
- 4John Wayne, Lauren Bacall, James Stewart
- Released: 1976
- Directed by: Don Siegel
John Wayne delivers a poignant final performance as a terminally ill gunfighter who sets out to secure a quiet retirement. During his stay at a widow's boarding house, Wayne's character J.B. Books experiences both compassion and cruelty from the townspeople. As he prepares for his final days, Books is forced to confront his violent past to protect those close to him.
- 5Clint Eastwood, Shirley MacLaine, Armando Silvestre
- Released: 1970
- Directed by: Don Siegel
In this action-packed adventure, a mercenary (played by Clint Eastwood) rescues a nun (played by Shirley MacLaine) from a group of bandits. Together, they team up to assist a group of Mexican revolutionaries in their fight against the oppressive French government. Along the way, they discover that Sister Sara may not be as virtuous as she seems, leading to twists and turns that keep viewers on the edge of their seats.
- 6John Wayne, George Kennedy, Scott Walker
- Released: 1973
- Directed by: Andrew V. McLaglen
John Wayne stars in this classic tale as J.D. Cahill, a tough lawman determined to bring order and justice to his rough frontier town. While chasing down an outlaw gang, Cahill discovers that his own sons are involved in the crimes. He must now balance his duty as a marshal with his responsibility as a father, all while dealing with the criminals at large.
