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11 Must-Watch Western & Gunfight Movies for Every Thrill-Seeker

Written by Ella Anderson & Likewise Pix | Apr 08, 2025 Dive into the gritty and thrilling world of Western movies that capture the spirit of outlaws, complete with gunfights and tales of revenge. Here are 11 must-watch Western films that are sure to have you at the edge of your seat, each with its own unique take on the harsh yet mesmerizing landscape of the Old West.

Old Henry

Old Henry
© Photo: Provided by Likewise.

In "Old Henry," a widowed farmer and his son cautiously take in a mysterious, injured stranger carrying a satchel of cash. As a posse claims to be pursuing the law closes in on the money, the farmer faces a difficult choice of loyalty while demonstrating an unexpected knack for gun-slinging. This revelation calls his true identity into question, adding layers to this thrilling tale of trust and deception. Released on October 1, 2021, this film has an average rating of 3.6. Watch here.

The Harder They Fall

The Harder They Fall
© Photo: Provided by Likewise.

"The Harder They Fall" introduces us to Nat Love, an outlaw with revenge on his mind. As he and his gang saddle up to take down Rufus Buck, a remorseless crime boss newly sprung from prison, viewers are treated to a gripping saga of redemption and rivalry. Released on October 22, 2021, with a rating of 3.4, this film showcases intense showdowns and volatile alliances. Watch here.

News of the World

News of the World
© Photo: Provided by Likewise.

Set against the backdrop of the wild West, "News of the World" follows a Texan who carries the news across towns, ultimately agreeing to aid in the rescue of a kidnapped young girl. This heartwarming yet thrilling Western adventure, released on December 25, 2020, is rated 3.6 and explores themes of duty, compassion, and redemption. Watch here.

Hostiles

Hostiles
© Photo: Provided by Likewise.

"Hostiles" depicts the harrowing journey of a Native American-hating Army captain who is tasked with escorting a Cheyenne chief and his family through perilous territory back to their Montana reservation. Released on December 22, 2017, with a rating of 3.4, this film is both a captivating look at camaraderie in the face of prejudice and a reminder of the constant danger lurking in the Old West. Watch here.

The Magnificent Seven

The Magnificent Seven
© Photo: Provided by Likewise.

Greedy industrialist Bartholomew Bogue seizes a town in the Old West to exploit its riches, leaving its residents, led by the courageous Emma Cullen, to employ the help of bounty hunter Sam Chisolm and his recruited gunslingers to fight back. Released on September 14, 2016, this action-packed, 3.5-rated film showcases a spectacular showdown where our heroes are fighting for more than just monetary gain. Watch here.

Bone Tomahawk

Bone Tomahawk
© Photo: Provided by Likewise.

In "Bone Tomahawk," the gruesome frontier tale begins with a shootout involving Sheriff Hunt and an enigmatic stranger. The mystery heightens as the town is attacked and significant characters vanish, leaving behind clues linked to a cannibal tribe. This gritty movie, released on October 23, 2015, is rated 3.5 and takes viewers on a haunting rescue mission through a foreboding landscape. Watch here.

Django Unchained

Django Unchained
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Quentin Tarantino's "Django Unchained" tells the gripping tale of a liberated slave on a mission to rescue his wife from a cruel plantation owner with the assistance of a German bounty hunter. Released on December 25, 2012, the film's invigorating storyline and powerhouse performances have earned it a remarkable 4.3 rating. Watch here.

The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford

The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford
© Photo: Provided by Likewise.

This cinematic tale explores the life and inevitable betrayal of legendary outlaw Jesse James by Robert Ford, an ambitious young recruit that once idolized him. Released on September 20, 2007, this film, rated 3.6, delves into themes of infamy and the haunting aftermath of treachery. Watch here.

No Country for Old Men

No Country for Old Men
© Photo: Provided by Likewise.

"No Country for Old Men" stars Llewelyn Moss, who stumbles upon the aftermath of a drug deal gone wrong and absconds with a briefcase full of cash. Unbeknownst to him, he becomes the hunted with a relentless killer pursuing him, and a sagacious sheriff following close behind. Released on June 13, 2007, this film enjoys a captivating narrative with a rating of 3.9. Watch here.

3:10 to Yuma

3:10 to Yuma
© Photo: Provided by Likewise.

"3:10 to Yuma" places the viewer in the dusty trails of Arizona, with Dan Evans, a war veteran, attempting to secure his family's survival by ensuring the capture of notorious outlaw Ben Wade. Released on September 6, 2007, with a solid 4.0 rating, this film artists the essence of courage and desperation while playwrights its gritty narrative. Watch here.

3

3
© Photo: Provided by Likewise.

In this riveting narrative, "3" is about high school sweethearts, Ram and Janani, whose love story takes a dark turn with Ram's sudden and tragic suicide. Driven by confusion and sorrow, Janani embarks on a journey to uncover the reasons behind his death, which released on March 30, 2012 with a rating of 3.5. Although not a Western, its raw storytelling and emotional depth warrant its mention. Watch here.

Closing Thoughts

Each of these films presents a unique take on the fearless and rugged world of Western cinema. From brave heroes charting dangerous territories to complex narratives woven with betrayal and redemption, these movies draw audiences into a legendary period where courage was currency and life was lived on a knife's edge. Whether you cherish the explosive action or the profound narratives, there's something for every Western movie enthusiast to savor here. So saddle up and delve into these enthralling tales of the Old West, where every bullet counts, and heroes are born amid dust and daring showdowns.

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