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A Look at 4 Western Films That Define the Genre

Originally posted on Men's Journal | By Madison Richmann | Last updated Aug 15, 2024 4:05 PM ET

American Film has been long embodying adventure through the western genre. Timeless stories and iconic characters through the screen have been entertaining audiences for decades.

Take a look at four of the greatest, classic western films that have helped shape the genre into what we know it as today. As new series and movies are released with the western feel, it is necessary to look back and reflect on when and how the appeal began.

1) 'Stagecoach'

An original, released in 1939, 'Stagecoach,' is a prime example of adventure and western action. Ringo Kid, played by the one and only John Wayne, is a main character and was featured in Marvel comic books as well. Claire Trevor played Dallas. Dallas and Ringo Kid have quite the adventure as they travel with a diverse set of passengers across dangerous New Mexico territory aboard a stagecoach.

The film was nominated for an Oscar, and won many awards. This was a positive turning point for the western genre and the way we still experience it today.

2) 'Tombstone'

A list of top western films would not be complete without including 'Tombstone.' Arguably one of the greatest movies to ever be released, 'Tombstone,' follows the story of Wyatt Earp and Doc Holliday as they become targets for the enemy and fight to restore the land. The film is actually loosely based on true events that took place including the Gunfight at the O.K. Corral.

When it was released in 1993, it immediately saw much success and was nominated for many awards including the MTV Movie Awards.

3) 'Red River'

Another classic released in 1948, 'Red River' was another great starring John Wayne. Dangerous conflict is clearly expressed in the film as Thomas Dunson (Wayne,) and others go on a journey with cattle across state lines. The film was set shortly after the Civil War.

The directors, writers, actors and actresses, and the film as a whole as received many awards and nominations. In 2012 the film was inducted into the OFTA Film Hall of Fame.

4) 'True Grit'

Another John Wayne original, 'True Grit,' is always among the best. A murder and a manhunt creates much suspense and excitement in the film. John Wayne plays U.S. Marshal "Rooster" Cogburn, and conducts the search with grit. His portrayl of this character won him his only Academy Award.

The movie has been adapted twice. The original came out in 1969, and a new version in 2010. Both versions of 'True Grit,' have made significant contributions to the western genre.

This article first appeared on Men's Journal and was syndicated with permission.

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