20 Movies to Show Your Kids to Get Them into Westerns
What could be a more American genre of film than the Western? If you're a cinephile, you probably want to sit down with your kids and introduce them to the Wild West in film, but where do you start? Given the films are often violent - and sometimes a little raunchy - it can be hard to find classic Western movies kids can watch. Do not fear, however! Here, you'll find a list of films from the genre made famous by John Wayne that are both appropriate and engaging for teens and tweens. These Western movies for beginners will ease your kids into the genre, introducing them to its tropes and conventions while keeping things in the G to PG-13 range.
If you want to get kids into Westerns, comedy is a great place to start. ¡Three Amigos!, starring Chevy Chase, Steve Martin, and Phil Hartman is a perfect choice. It uses more mature humor, without being inappropriate for kids. If you want your kids to understand all the "Shane, come back!" references in pop culture, why not show them Shane? The film is a bittersweet classic that's totally appropriate for a younger audience. There are plenty of other films listed below that feature the life in the Wild West that will help teach your kids to love Westerns!
What are the best Western movies for kids? Vote up your favorites below.
1Kurt Russell, Val Kilmer, Michael Biehn- Released: 1993
- Directed by: George P. Cosmatos
Tombstone, starring Kurt Russell and Val Kilmer, is an excellent introduction for kids to the Wild West genre. Suitable for tweens and teens, this film follows the legendary lawman Wyatt Earp and his brothers as they team up with the infamous gunslinger Doc Holliday to restore order in the town of Tombstone. Packed with memorable quotes and thrilling gunfights, there's never a dull moment in Tombstone.
2Robert Duvall, Kevin Costner, Annette Bening- Released: 2003
- Directed by: Kevin Costner
Open Range, directed by and starring Kevin Costner, alongside Robert Duvall, is a modern classic with a bit more depth. Ideal for older kids and teens, this film dives into themes such as loyalty, camaraderie, and the true cost of violence. Open Range may ignite their passion for classic Westerns, as it harks back to the good ol' days of cowboys and gunfights.
3Yul Brynner, Eli Wallach, Steve McQueen- Released: 1960
- Directed by: John Sturges
The Magnificent Seven, featuring an ensemble cast led by Yul Brynner and Steve McQueen, is a perfect choice for kids eager to see a band of heroes in action. Inspired by the Japanese film Seven Samurai, this Western is suitable for kids aged 10 and up. With its unforgettable theme song and thrilling action sequences, The Magnificent Seven has left a lasting impact on pop culture.
![A Fistful of Dollars]()
4Clint Eastwood, Gian Maria Volonté, Aldo Sambrell- Released: 1964
- Directed by: Sergio Leone
A Fistful of Dollars, directed by Sergio Leone and starring Clint Eastwood, is an essential Western flick for kids to experience the iconic "Man with No Name" character. Although best suited for older kids and teens due to some violence, this film's captivating story and memorable scenes will have them feeling like they've struck gold.
![The Good, the Bad and the Ugly]()
5Clint Eastwood, Eli Wallach, Lee Van Cleef- Released: 1967
- Directed by: Sergio Leone
The Good, the Bad and the Ugly, another iconic Sergio Leone film starring Clint Eastwood, is a must-see for older kids and teens exploring the genre. With unforgettable performances by Eastwood, Lee Van Cleef, and Eli Wallach, this film's combination of action, humor, and suspense is as gripping as a rattlesnake bite.
![City Slickers]()
6Billy Crystal, Daniel Stern, Bruno Kirby- Released: 1991
- Directed by: Ron Underwood
City Slickers, a comedic take on the Western genre, stars Billy Crystal, Daniel Stern, and Bruno Kirby as three friends embarking on a cattle drive adventure. Suitable for kids aged 12 and up, this lighthearted film offers laughs and life lessons, making it a great family movie night choice for introducing kids to Westerns.
