Overrated Western Movies Everyone Seems To Like

Westerns are responsible for some of the most famous and highly-regarded films ever made, shaping how we picture the American West. While many are consistently ranked among the greatest films due to their impressive filmmaking and memorable acting, some have faced increasing scrutiny. This collection explores a few of the most well-known Westerns that some viewers and critics believe don’t quite live up to their legendary reputation.

‘The Searchers’ (1956)

As a film critic, I’ve always been fascinated by this classic Western. It tells the story of a Civil War veteran’s decades-long quest to find his niece, who was taken by a Native American tribe. It’s undeniably a landmark film, and the collaboration between John Ford and John Wayne is truly something special – visually breathtaking and packed with layers. However, I have to admit, watching it today, the pacing can feel a bit slow, and some of the characters’ choices don’t entirely ring true for a modern audience. Despite that, it remains a film that sparks debate – a true classic that still manages to divide viewers, and that’s part of what makes it so compelling.

‘Unforgiven’ (1992)

Unforgiven tells the story of William Munny, an old, retired outlaw who reluctantly takes on one final job: to hunt down and kill two men who brutally attacked a woman. The film is known for its gritty and realistic portrayal of the Old West, helping to redefine the Western genre. It was a critical and commercial success, winning Academy Awards for Best Picture and Best Director (Clint Eastwood). However, some viewers and critics find the film to be quite bleak and lacking the traditional thrills of classic Westerns. Others feel the story unfolds too slowly for those expecting a more fast-paced experience.

‘High Noon’ (1952)

A lawman is forced to choose between standing up to a dangerous group of criminals on his own or escaping with his new wife. The movie is well-known for unfolding in real time and highlighting the loneliness of its main character. It was created to represent the political issues of the time and was highly praised by critics. However, some viewers find it slow-paced and lacking in the action typically seen in Westerns of that era, feeling it relies too much on conversation and not enough on exciting frontier adventures.

‘Shane’ (1953)

This classic Western tells the story of a tired gunslinger trying to leave his violent past behind and build a quiet life with a farming family. However, he’s quickly pulled back into trouble by a cruel and powerful rancher. The film is known for its stunning visuals and its take on the traditional Western hero. Its final gunfight is famously influential, appearing in many other movies since its release. Though widely considered a masterpiece, some viewers find Alan Ladd’s performance a bit wooden, and the film’s strong use of symbolism can feel old-fashioned to today’s audiences.

‘The Good, the Bad and the Ugly’ (1966)

As a huge Western fan, I’ve seen a lot of films about the Civil War, and this one – about three guys hunting for buried gold – is practically the defining movie of the ‘Spaghetti Western’ style. What really stands out is the music and how it’s directed – it’s just brilliant. The director builds tension with these long, drawn-out scenes and doesn’t rely much on dialogue, letting the visuals do the talking. Honestly, though, it can feel a little too long for some, and the story kind of wanders around in episodes, which can slow things down. Still, it’s a classic that a lot of fans love, even if some critics think it gets a little carried away with its own style.

‘Dances with Wolves’ (1990)

This epic film follows a Union Army lieutenant who journeys to the American frontier and forms a connection with the Lakota people. Directed by and starring Kevin Costner, it won seven Oscars and is celebrated for its stunning scenery and respectful depiction of Native American culture. However, some critics feel the movie relies too much on the ‘white savior’ storyline and that its length and emotional tone are excessive.

‘True Grit’ (2010)

A young woman hires a seasoned lawman to hunt down her father’s killer. This updated version of the story, directed by the Coen Brothers, was a box office hit and earned several award nominations. It’s more faithful to the original source than the first film adaptation and boasts excellent acting. However, some critics feel it lacks the special appeal of the 1969 movie and appears overly refined for a Western. A few viewers also found the conversations to be too artificial and hard to understand.

‘No Country for Old Men’ (2007)

This modern Western follows a hunter who accidentally witnesses a failed drug exchange, putting him on the run from a determined killer. The film is known for its gripping suspense and dark look at destiny and brutality. It earned the Oscar for Best Picture and boasts a memorable performance by Javier Bardem. Some viewers, however, find the ending unsatisfying and wish for a more clear-cut conclusion. The film’s lack of a traditional musical soundtrack is also a topic of discussion, with some missing a more immersive cinematic experience.

‘Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid’ (1969)

After a series of train robberies, two criminals escape to Bolivia. The film is well-known for the strong connection between its two stars and its clever writing. Many consider it a landmark movie for Westerns because of its fresh, humorous approach. Some viewers even believe it’s more of a comedy about two friends than a traditional Western. However, the movie’s light tone doesn’t always quite match the risky lives the characters are living.

‘Stagecoach’ (1939)

This classic Western follows a group of travelers on a stagecoach as they face both internal disagreements and the threat of an Apache attack. The film launched John Wayne to stardom and helped define many of the conventions we now associate with Westerns. It’s celebrated for its well-written story and impressive action sequences. However, some viewers today find the characters to be one-dimensional and the portrayal of Native Americans to be insensitive, reflecting the attitudes of the time it was made. While historically significant, the film doesn’t entirely hold up by modern standards.

‘Red River’ (1948)

This classic Western follows a cattle rancher as he leads a huge drive, facing conflict with his adopted son over how to manage the herd. The film is famous for its sweeping scope and the powerful performances of John Wayne and Montgomery Clift, delving into themes of leadership and the dangers of obsession in the Old West. While celebrated overall, some viewers feel the ending doesn’t quite fit the rest of the movie, and the love story feels rushed and doesn’t add much to the main plot.

‘The Magnificent Seven’ (1960)

This classic Western tells the story of seven gunslingers who are paid to defend a small village from bandits. Inspired by the Japanese film Seven Samurai, it’s known for its memorable score and exploration of why each gunslinger takes the job. While highly regarded, some critics feel it doesn’t quite reach the emotional impact of the original movie, and some viewers find that not all of the characters are developed equally.

‘Tombstone’ (1993)

This movie follows Wyatt Earp and his brothers as they try to build new lives in a mining town, but they quickly find themselves in a dangerous feud with a local gang. It’s a fast-paced and exciting film, especially remembered for Val Kilmer’s portrayal of Doc Holliday, and offers a dramatic take on the legendary shootout at the O.K. Corral. While entertaining, some critics feel the movie focuses more on action and spectacle than on historical detail or fully developed characters, and that it tries to juggle too many supporting roles.

‘The Revenant’ (2015)

The movie tells the story of a fur trapper who battles for his life after a brutal bear attack leaves him for dead. It’s well-known for its incredibly difficult production and Leonardo DiCaprio’s Oscar-winning performance. The film boasts beautiful natural lighting and puts you right in the action with its immersive camera angles. However, some viewers feel the story is a basic revenge tale that goes on for too long, and the intense depiction of physical pain might be overwhelming for those seeking a more complex plot.

‘Once Upon a Time in the West’ (1968)

A captivating story unfolds as an enigmatic stranger and a famed outlaw join forces to defend a widow from a relentless killer employed by the railroad. Widely considered a landmark Western, the film is celebrated for its grand scope and unforgettable musical score. Director Sergio Leone crafted a visually stunning tribute to the American West, though its deliberate, slow pace can be challenging for some viewers. Critics sometimes suggest the extended silences and long, unchanging camera angles are overly drawn out.

‘The Wild Bunch’ (1969)

This movie follows an aging group of outlaws attempting one final heist as the Wild West fades away. It’s known for its intense violence and groundbreaking editing style. The film portrays a morally gray world where the line between heroes and villains is blurred. While some viewers find the excessive violence distracting from the story’s deeper meaning, others struggle to connect with the characters, especially during the film’s chaotic and fast-paced climax.

‘Django Unchained’ (2012)

This successful Western, directed by Quentin Tarantino, follows a former slave who joins forces with a German bounty hunter to save his wife from a cruel plantation owner. The film is known for its distinctive style and intense violence, blending historical elements with fast-paced action. However, some viewers and critics have found the frequent use of offensive language and graphic scenes to be excessive, and others feel the movie is overly long and doesn’t quite stick the landing in its final section.

‘The Hateful Eight’ (2015)

This film follows a group of strangers stranded in a mountain pass during a blizzard, where they realize they can’t rely on each other. It’s known for its talkative script and being set in just one location. The movie features a memorable musical score by Ennio Morricone and a strong cast. However, some viewers find it too long and feel trapped by the confined setting. The mystery aspects aren’t as captivating as the director’s other films, according to many.

‘Brokeback Mountain’ (2005)

This movie tells the story of two cowboys who form a close, intimate relationship while working on a ranch in the mountains. It’s considered a ‘Revisionist Western’ because it explores a rarely shown side of life in the Old West. Critics praised the actors and the film’s emotional power, though some viewers feel it leans more towards a romance than a traditional Western. A common criticism is that the story unfolds slowly and the tragic elements feel somewhat contrived.

‘Rio Bravo’ (1959)

This classic Western follows a small-town sheriff who teams up with an unlikely duo – a local drunk and a quick-drawing gunslinger – to guard a prisoner. The film is known for its strong character development and laid-back pace, and was created as a deliberate contrast to the high-stakes tension of ‘High Noon.’ While praised for its focus on people, some viewers find the story lacks excitement and features too much music. Others feel the plot is a bit thin for a movie of its duration.

‘Wyatt Earp’ (1994)

As a Western fan, I recently checked out this biopic about the legendary lawman, and it really tries to cover everything – his whole life, from childhood to old age. It came out around the same time as ‘Tombstone,’ but this one went for a much grander, more historical feel. Kevin Costner is in the lead, and honestly, it’s a long movie – over three hours! A lot of people, myself included, found it a bit slow and lacking the thrills you get in other Western biopics. It tries to do so much, covering so much ground, that it kind of loses sight of what makes the main character interesting. It feels a little overblown, if I’m being honest.

‘Open Range’ (2003)

This film follows two ranchers whose quiet existence is disrupted by a ruthless landowner and his dangerous crew. It’s celebrated for its authentic portrayal of cowboy culture and features a thrilling final gunfight. Kevin Costner directed the movie, and critics generally praised it. However, some viewers feel the film drags in the middle with a romantic subplot that doesn’t quite connect, and the overall story is fairly conventional.

‘Legends of the Fall’ (1994)

Set in early 20th-century Montana, this film tells the story of three brothers and their father. It’s a large-scale drama that explores themes of love and betrayal over many years. While praised for its stunning visuals and Brad Pitt’s acting, some critics feel the story is too dramatic and relies on unbelievable coincidences and tragedies to drive the plot forward.

‘The Outlaw Josey Wales’ (1976)

This classic Western, directed by and starring Clint Eastwood, tells the story of a Missouri farmer who becomes a Confederate guerrilla and later tries to escape Union troops after the Civil War. It’s widely considered one of the greatest Westerns of all time, with a diverse cast of characters and a focus on themes like finding forgiveness and the importance of community. While many love the film, some viewers find its journey-like structure feels repetitive, and others feel it’s too long and loses momentum in the middle.

‘Blazing Saddles’ (1974)

This hilarious Mel Brooks film is a comedy that playfully mocks classic Westerns and tackles issues of prejudice. The story centers around a dishonest politician who intentionally places a Black sheriff in charge of a small town, hoping to cause its downfall. It’s often ranked among the greatest comedies of all time, though some viewers today find certain jokes haven’t aged well or are insensitive. Some critics also feel the movie loses its momentum near the end when it directly addresses the audience.

‘Pale Rider’ (1985)

This movie tells the story of a mysterious preacher who comes to a mining town to defend the people from a ruthless company. It marked Clint Eastwood’s return to making Westerns in the 1980s, and blends the genre with supernatural elements. While reminiscent of the classic film Shane, some viewers feel it relies too heavily on familiar Western tropes. Common criticisms include a slow pace and a lack of fresh ideas.

‘High Plains Drifter’ (1973)

A mysterious newcomer arrives in a quiet town and takes on the job of protecting its people from bandits. The film stands out from classic Westerns because of its bleak mood and touches of the supernatural. It presents a harsh and pessimistic view of people, set against a raw and realistic backdrop. However, some viewers have criticized how the female characters are portrayed, finding it troubling. The movie also ends in a strange and dreamlike way, which doesn’t appeal to everyone, particularly those who prefer more straightforward stories.

‘The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance’ (1962)

This movie tells the story of a senator revisiting his hometown for a funeral, where he remembers the events surrounding the death of a famous outlaw. It’s a film about the changing American West – how it moved from a wild, untamed land to a more settled, lawful place. Featuring iconic performances by John Wayne and James Stewart, some viewers find the film’s studio setting makes it feel limited, and its strong political messages might not appeal to those looking for a classic Western action movie.

‘A Fistful of Dollars’ (1964)

This classic Western follows a mysterious gunslinger who comes to a town controlled by two feuding families. He expertly manipulates both sides to his advantage. The film is famous for launching Clint Eastwood’s career and helping to define the Spaghetti Western genre. It’s based on a Japanese movie called Yojimbo and is known for its distinctive visual style. While highly influential, some viewers are bothered by the film’s limited budget, which is noticeable in the special effects and the fact that the voices were dubbed. The story is also considered simpler than those in the sequels that followed.

‘For a Few Dollars More’ (1965)

This movie follows two bounty hunters who reluctantly team up to chase a notorious criminal and his crew. Building on the first film, it offers deeper characters and a more ambitious story. Critics and audiences alike have praised the film’s gripping confrontations and memorable music. However, some viewers feel the story drags in places due to several subplots, and others believe it relies too much on familiar, overused themes.

‘The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford’ (2007)

This film is a psychological Western that delves into the complex connection between Jesse James and the man who ultimately killed him. It’s visually stunning, with a deliberate and slow rhythm, prioritizing character development over typical Western shootouts. While some find its lack of action makes it feel overly long and slow-paced, others praise it as a beautiful, artistic film that unfortunately lacks a strong story.

‘Slow West’ (2015)

This film follows a young man’s journey across the American West to find the woman he loves, aided by a strange and enigmatic companion. It’s known for its distinctive look and feel, combining the classic Western with a story of growing up. The movie has a playful, offbeat quality and presents violence in an unusual way. While visually interesting, some viewers feel the film is too brief and that the characters aren’t fully developed. Many also find the ending rushed and unfulfilling.

‘News of the World’ (2020)

This movie stars Tom Hanks as a Civil War veteran journeying through Texas. He carries important news to isolated communities while also safeguarding a young girl. The film explores how communication and recovery can happen even in a country torn apart. While many appreciate the heartfelt acting and traditional filmmaking, some critics feel the story is a bit too familiar and lacks surprises. Others believe the movie unfolds at a leisurely pace for what is ultimately a straightforward story.

‘Hostiles’ (2017)

The movie follows an army captain assigned to return a gravely ill Cheyenne chief and his family to their homeland. It’s a serious and melancholic film that explores the endless pattern of conflict and the potential for healing. While the actors deliver powerful performances and the film creates a stark and gloomy mood, many viewers find it deeply depressing and devoid of optimism. Some critics also feel the characters change too rapidly, which doesn’t quite fit with the film’s weighty subject matter.

‘Bone Tomahawk’ (2015)

This film follows a sheriff and his team as they attempt to save citizens kidnapped by terrifying, cannibalistic people living in caves. It’s a unique mix of Western and horror, praised for its clever writing but also known for its shocking and sudden bursts of violence. While some viewers find the beginning slow-paced and focused on conversation, others are disturbed by the excessive gore in the final scenes, which feels out of place compared to the rest of the movie.

‘Appaloosa’ (2008)

This Western follows two hired guns who arrive in a troubled town to confront a ruthless rancher who’s been bullying the locals. The movie centers on the working relationship and quiet connection between these two men, offering a more grounded and realistic take on classic Western themes. While some appreciate its subtlety, others find the story slow-paced and the romantic subplot unnecessary. Fans of action-packed Westerns might be disappointed by the film’s lack of big, dramatic showdowns.

‘The Sisters Brothers’ (2018)

This movie follows two brothers who are professional assassins as they pursue a gold prospector during the gold rush era. Adapted from a well-known novel, the film blends dark comedy with serious character development, delving into the motivations and contrasting ambitions of the two killers. While some viewers have criticized the film’s uneven tone, finding the shifts between humor and drama jarring, and the ending somewhat disappointing and unclear, it remains a compelling story.

‘Old Henry’ (2021)

This tense Western follows a farmer haunted by secrets who shelters an injured traveler with a bag full of money. He’s then forced to protect his home from a gang of outlaws. While praised for its suspense and unexpected turns, and featuring a realistic performance by Tim Blake Nelson, some viewers feel the story is predictable and relies too heavily on the familiar ‘home invasion’ plot. Its small scale may also disappoint those hoping for a grander, more expansive story.

‘The Power of the Dog’ (2021)

This film tells the story of a Montana ranch where a captivating but harsh man begins to psychologically abuse his brother’s wife and her son. It’s less a classic Western and more of a character-driven drama exploring hidden feelings. While critically acclaimed and nominated for several awards for its direction and performances, some viewers found the deliberately slow pace and ending underwhelming. Its departure from traditional Western action might leave some feeling it doesn’t fully fit within the genre.

‘Hell or High Water’ (2016)

This modern Western follows two brothers who resort to robbing banks in a desperate attempt to save their family’s ranch. They’re relentlessly pursued by Texas Rangers. The film is praised for its clever writing and its look at financial hardship in the United States today. While critically acclaimed and nominated for multiple Oscars, some viewers find the story predictable and the characters stereotypical. A few also feel the movie moves too slowly for a heist thriller.

‘True Grit’ (1969)

This classic Western follows a young girl who teams up with a somewhat unreliable US Marshal to find the man who killed her father in Indian Territory. The film is famous for winning John Wayne his only Oscar and is known for its beautiful landscapes and blend of funny and exciting moments. However, some critics feel the movie doesn’t take its subject matter seriously enough and that Wayne’s performance feels like a self-parody. A few viewers also find the performance of the young actress a bit annoying compared to the rest of the cast.

‘The Shootist’ (1976)

This film tells the story of an old gunslinger facing a terminal cancer diagnosis, and his search for a meaningful way to spend his final days as the world around him changes. It was John Wayne’s last movie, and many see it as a touching goodbye to both him and the classic Western. While praised for its emotional depth and thoughtful look at the cowboy image, some viewers find the pace slow and the story overly emotional. The plot itself is fairly simple, largely focusing on the main character’s illness.

‘El Dorado’ (1966)

This Western follows a gunfighter and an alcoholic sheriff who join forces with a rancher to protect his water supply from a ruthless competitor. The film shares a striking resemblance to Rio Bravo in both its story and overall feel, as it was made by the same director and utilizes a similar mix of witty characters and a slow, deliberate pace. However, many critics believe it retreads familiar ground without adding anything innovative to the genre, and some viewers find its similarity to the previous film makes it less captivating.

‘Winchester ’73’ (1950)

I recently watched this incredible Western, and I was completely captivated by the story of a man determined to recover his stolen rifle. What’s fascinating is how the film traces the gun’s journey through different hands as it moves across the frontier. It really felt like a turning point for Westerns, bringing a much more intense and psychological edge to the genre. It also marked the beginning of a wonderful partnership between James Stewart and director Anthony Mann. Honestly, while I loved it, I can see how some modern viewers might find the way the story unfolds – following the gun itself – a little contrived. And, admittedly, the characters and their reasons for doing things aren’t as complex as what we’re used to seeing in films today, but that didn’t bother me too much!

‘How the West Was Won’ (1962)

This epic film tells the story of a family’s journey across America over four generations, set against the backdrop of key historical events. It boasts a large cast and was originally filmed using the impressive Cinerama widescreen process, showcasing Hollywood’s ambition during its peak. While celebrated for its grand scope, many reviewers feel the film lacks a strong narrative connection, with some parts being much stronger than others. Its length and the way it’s structured – almost like a collection of short films – can make it feel disjointed.

‘Giant’ (1956)

This sweeping film tells the story of a Texas family over many years, as they adapt to the changing times and move from ranching to the oil business. It boasts a famous cast, including Elizabeth Taylor and James Dean in his last movie appearance. Known for its large scope and look at social shifts in the American West, the film is nearly three and a half hours long. Some critics and viewers feel this length makes the story drag, and find the dramatic moments and the way characters age to be unrealistic.

‘The Ox-Bow Incident’ (1943)

This film depicts a group of townspeople who take the law into their own hands, forming a posse to lynch three men accused of stealing cattle and murder. It’s a grim and thought-provoking exploration of how easily justice can be perverted by a mob and what happens when the legal system fails. While praised for its nuanced moral questions and focused story, some viewers find its message overly forceful. Those expecting a typical action-packed Western might find it slow and challenging, as it prioritizes thematic depth over adventure.

‘My Darling Clementine’ (1946)

John Ford’s film about Wyatt Earp becoming sheriff of Tombstone and his eventual confrontation with the Clanton gang at the O.K. Corral is known for its beautiful visuals and poetic style. Rather than focusing on action, the movie emphasizes the town’s atmosphere and the characters’ personalities. While some viewers appreciate its artistic approach, others feel it takes too many historical liberties or moves at a slow pace for a Western about a famous gunfight.

‘Jeremiah Johnson’ (1972)

This film follows a man who chooses to abandon modern life and live as a frontiersman in the harsh Rocky Mountains. Starring Robert Redford, it explores the challenges of surviving in the wilderness. While celebrated for its stunning scenery and realistic portrayal of survival skills, some viewers may find the film slow-paced and lacking a clear storyline. Its structure, which unfolds in loosely connected episodes, can sometimes feel repetitive.

‘The Cowboys’ (1972)

This movie follows an experienced rancher who must enlist the help of a group of students to move his cattle along a treacherous route. It’s a coming-of-age story that realistically portrays the difficulties of life on the trail. John Wayne delivers a surprisingly sensitive performance as he guides these young men. While some viewers question the film’s lessons about morality, specifically its portrayal of violence, others feel the story is familiar and follows typical western tropes.

We’d love to hear your thoughts! Tell us in the comments which Western films you think get too much praise.

2025-12-31 22:01