Join Topshare to discover the list of top 10 best cowboy movies in the West that you should not miss. From fiery gunfights to dramatic adventures, these films give you a journey into the wild and exciting world of the West. Be prepared for excellent acting, quality scripts, and beautiful shots as you follow cowboys and indomitable shooters on screen. Don't miss out on these memorable works that will make you a true fan of the cowboy genre.
1 In a Valley of Violence

In a Valley of Violence - Best Cowboy Movie. Photo credit: Morden Horrors
In a Valley of Violence - Best Cowboy Movie Trailer.
In a Valley of Violence is a 2016 cowboy film, directed by Ti West. The film stars Ethan Hawke, Taissa Farmiga, and John Travolta.
The story takes place in the 1890s and focuses on Paul (played by Ethan Hawke), a young US Army soldier traveling through a desolate valley. He infiltrates the small town of Denton, where he encounters bullying and conflict from the town's gangsters under the leadership of Gideon (played by John Travolta). In the process, Paul decides to take revenge and begins a dangerous pursuit.
"In a Valley of Violence" takes the classic style of traditional cowboy movies and emphasizes action and fighting elements. The film received positive reviews from critics and was rated as an enjoyable movie for lovers of the cowboy genre.
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In a Valley of Violence is a 2016 cowboy film, directed by Ti West. The film stars Ethan Hawke, Taissa Farmiga, James Ransone, and John Travolta.
The story takes place in the 1890s and revolves around the character Paul (played by Ethan Hawke), a young soldier who is wandering through the desert with his pet dog, Abbie. They infiltrate the small town of Denton, which encounters violence and injustice from local gangsters led by Gideon (played by John Travolta). Paul's heart burned inside at the cruelty he witnessed, and he decided to take revenge on those wicked people.
The film's story continues to evolve in a harsh and violent space, as Paul confronts brutal thugs. However, Paul is not the only one who is aiming for revenge. The story creates a tense confrontation between Paul and Gideon, two characters with a dark past and a determination to not give in.
"In a Valley of Violence" is highly regarded for its reinterpretation of not only the Wild West setting but also the classic style and feel of the cowboy genre. The film cleverly combines elements of action, combat and a bit of dark humor. The performances of the main actors were also commended, especially the performances of Ethan Hawke and John Travolta.
Although it did not attract much attention from the public, "In a Valley of Violence" is still considered a cowboy movie worth watching, especially for those who love the genre and are looking for a compelling story. and never ceased to be anxious.
Release year: 2016
Directed by: Ti West
Screenwriter: Ti West
Starring: Ethan Hawke, John Travolta
Genre: Action, Psychological, Western
Episodes: Not applicable (movie)
Status: Completed
America
IMDb Score: 6.0/10
2 Hell or High Water

Hell or High Water – Best Cowboy Movie. Image Source: IMDb
Hell or High Water - Best Cowboy Movie Trailer.
"Hell or High Water" is a 2016 cowboy film, directed by David Mackenzie. The film stars Chris Pine, Ben Foster, and Jeff Bridges.
The story takes place in Texas, where brothers Toby (played by Chris Pine) and Tanner (played by Ben Foster) decide to rob banks to pay off family debt. During the pursuit of the two brothers, Marcus Hamilton (played by Jeff Bridges), an elderly inspector nearing retirement, and his colleague Alberto Parker (played by Gil Birmingham) attempt to capture them. The story raises questions about justice, family, and the consequences of the characters' actions.
"Hell or High Water" received widespread acclaim from both audiences and critics. The film was praised for its sharp plot, excellent performances by the main actors, and its portrayal of a modern image of the Wild West. It received numerous nominations and won many important awards, including Academy Award nominations for Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Screenplay.
"Hell or High Water" is considered a cowboy movie worth watching, with a compelling story, dramatic plot, and excellent performances from the actors. It offers a unique and fresh look at the cowboy genre, capturing the interest of audiences who love both classic and modern movies.
Hell or High Water:
Release year: 2016
Directed by: David Mackenzie
Screenwriter: Taylor Sheridan
Starring: Chris Pine, Ben Foster, Jeff Bridges
Genre: Crime, Action, Psychological
Episodes: Not applicable (movie)
Status: Completed
America
IMDb Score: 7.6/10
3 Unforgiven

Unforgiven- Best Cowboy Movie. Image Source: IMDb
Unforgiven- Best Cowboy Movie Trailer.
"Unforgiven" is a 1992 cowboy film, directed by Clint Eastwood, who also stars in the film. The film also stars Gene Hackman, Morgan Freeman and Richard Harris.
The story takes place at the end of the Wild West. William Munny (played by Clint Eastwood) is a cowboy who has retired from a life of crime to live a peaceful life alongside his family. However, when a group of women report being brutally abused by two thugs, Munny decides to return to her old job to catch and punish the villains. He is joined by fellow bandmates, Ned Logan (played by Morgan Freeman) and The Schofield Kid (played by Jaimz Woolvett). During their pursuit, they face off against a trusted cop, Little Bill Daggett (played by Gene Hackman).
"Unforgiven" received widespread recognition and is one of the most popular cowboy movies of all time. The film is bold in the spirit of classic cowboy movies, but at the same time challenges and reverses some of the traditional elements of the genre. It questions vengeance and violent cloning, and explores the protagonist's complex personality and heartbreak.
"Unforgiven" won many important awards, including four Academy Awards, including the Academy Award for Best Picture and the Best Director Award for Clint Eastwood. The film was appreciated for its quality acting and sharp script, and it is still considered a classic in the cowboy genre.
Release year: 1992
Directed by: Clint Eastwood
Screenwriter: David Webb Peoples
Starring: Clint Eastwood, Gene Hackman, Morgan Freeman
Genre: Psychological, Action, Western
Episodes: Not applicable (movie)
Status: Completed
America
IMDb Score: 8.2/10
4 Hostiles

Hostiles - Best Cowboy Movie. Image Source: IMDb
Hostiles - Best Cowboy Movie Trailer.
"Hostiles" is a 2017 cowboy film, directed by Scott Cooper. The film stars Christian Bale, Rosamund Pike, Wes Studi, and Rory Cochrane.
The story takes place in 1892 and centers on US Army sergeant Joseph J. Blocker (played by Christian Bale). After years of fighting against the Indian tribes, he was tasked with bringing a prisoner of the Civil War back to the pawnbroker's homeland. This prisoner is Chief Yellow Hawk (played by Wes Studi), a Cheyenne. On a long and perilous journey, Blocker and his army must face many challenges and dangers from both the natural environment and enemies.
"Hostiles" portrays a deeply human story and raises questions about humanity, responsibility, and reconciliation. The film deftly explores the complex aspects of hatred and injustice in the setting of the Wild West. It offers a sophisticated and reflective look at life during the period of settlement and interaction between ethnic groups.
"Hostiles" was praised for the excellent performance of the cast, especially Christian Bale and Rosamund Pike. The film also received praise for its stunning visuals, impressive music, and sharp script. It is considered an outstanding and distinct cowboy film, showcasing the complexities of people and life in the Wild West.
Release year: 2017
Directed by: Scott Cooper
Screenwriter: Scott Cooper
Starring: Christian Bale, Rosamund Pike
Genre: Psychological, Action, Western
Episodes: Not applicable (movie)
Status: Completed
America
IMDb Score: 7.2/10
5 The Sisters Brothers

The Sisters Brothers - Best Cowboy Movie. Image Source: IMDb
The Sisters Brothers - Best Cowboy Movie Trailer.
"The Sisters Brothers" is a 2018 cowboy film, directed by Jacques Audiard. The film is based on the novel of the same name by Patrick deWitt. The film stars John C. Reilly, Joaquin Phoenix, Jake Gyllenhaal and Riz Ahmed.
The story takes place in the 1850s and centers on brothers Eli and Charlie Sisters (played by John C. Reilly and Joaquin Phoenix). They are two professional assassins belonging to a criminal gang. Hired to track down a man named Hermann Kermit Warm (played by Riz Ahmed) for assassination purposes, they embark on a journey through the Wild West. Along the way, they meet and interact with various characters, including a detective on a private mission (played by Jake Gyllenhaal).
"The Sisters Brothers" is a special cowboy movie because it combines elements of the traditional cowboy genre with a unique and humorous look. The film not only explores the lives of people living in the era of Wild West settlements, but also studies change and responsibility in life. It offers a fresh and insightful look at people, family and friendship.
"The Sisters Brothers" received critical acclaim for the excellent performance of the actors, especially the brother couple John C. Reilly and Joaquin Phoenix. The film has also been praised for its clever script, stunning visuals, and exquisite shaping of the Western settlement era. It is considered a must-see movie for those who love the cowboy genre and look for a story that is not only engaging but also profound.
Release year: 2018
Directed by: Jacques Audiard
Screenwriters: Jacques Audiard, Thomas Bidegain
Starring: John C. Reilly, Joaquin Phoenix, Jake Gyllenhaal
Genre: Psychological, Action, Western
Episodes: Not applicable (movie)
Status: Completed
Country: USA, France, Spain, Belgium, Romania
IMDb Score: 7.0/10
6 True Grit

True Grit - Best Cowboy Movie. Image Source: IMDb
True Grit - Best Cowboy Movie Trailer.
"True Grit" is a 2010 cowboy film, directed by Ethan and Joel Coen. The film is a remake of the 1969 film of the same name based on the novel of the same name by Charles Portis. The film stars Jeff Bridges, Matt Damon, Hailee Steinfeld, and Josh Brolin.
The story takes place in the Wild West and focuses on 14-year-old Mattie Ross (played by Hailee Steinfeld), who recruits a hunting assassin named Rooster Cogburn (played by Jeff Bridges) to hunt and arrest his father's killer. At the same time, another character named LaBoeuf (played by Matt Damon), a Texas detective, is also searching for the same criminal. The three of them are forced to cooperate and face many challenges and dangers in their journey.
"True Grit" is recognized for its excellent performances, especially young actress Hailee Steinfeld, who was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress. The film also received praise for its quality script, beautiful visuals and appropriate musical space. It recreates a classic Wild West atmosphere and cleverly showcases the main character's strength, courage, and unyielding will.
"True Grit" is a popular and beloved cowboy movie that combines humor and deep emotion in a tale of revenge and loyalty. It's a must-see for those who love the cowboy genre and are looking for a film with quality and flair from filmmaker Coen.
Release year: 2010
Directed by: Joel Coen, Ethan Coen
Screenwriters: Joel Coen, Ethan Coen
Starring: Jeff Bridges, Matt Damon, Hailee Steinfeld
Genre: Action, Western, Psychological
Episodes: Not applicable (movie)
Status: Completed
America
IMDb Score: 7.6/10
7 Django Unchained

Django Unchained - Best Cowboy Movie. Image Source: IMDb
Django Unchained - Best Cowboy Movie Trailer.
"Django Unchained" is a 2012 cowboy film, directed by Quentin Tarantino. The film stars Jamie Foxx, Christoph Waltz, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Kerry Washington.
The story takes place in the Pre-Civil War era and focuses on Django (played by Jamie Foxx), a freed black slave. After being freed by a bounty hunter named Dr. King Schultz (played by Christoph Waltz), Django teams up with Schultz to hunt down and free Django's wife, Broomhilda (played by Kerry Washington), from the hands of slave master Calvin J. Candie (played by Leonardo DiCaprio) role play). This journey leads to bloody skirmishes and revenge.
"Django Unchained" is a special cowboy movie because it combines elements of the genre with a unique look and bold Tarantino style. The film cleverly combines eye-catching action scenes, sharp dialogue, and an exploration of social issues like master slavery and racism. It offers a contrasting view of violence and injustice in society.
"Django Unchained" received widespread acclaim from critics and audiences. The film was appreciated for the excellent performance of the actors, especially Christoph Waltz, who won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his role in the film. It is also appreciated for its sharp script, beautiful visuals, and appropriate music. "Django Unchained" is a fierce, laugh-filled and contemplative film that is a must-see for lovers of the cowboy genre and the work of Quentin Tarantino.
Release year: 2012
Directed by: Quentin Tarantino
Screenwriter: Quentin Tarantino
Starring: Jamie Foxx, Christoph Waltz, Leonardo DiCaprio
Genre: Action, Western, Crime
Episodes: Not applicable (movie)
Status: Completed
America
IMDb Score: 8.4/10
8 Tombstone

Tombstone – Best Cowboy Movie. Image Source: IMDb
Tombstone - Best cowboy movie trailer.
"Tombstone" is a 1993 cowboy film, directed by George P. Cosmatos. The film stars Kurt Russell, Val Kilmer, Sam Elliott, and Bill Paxton.
The story of "Tombstone" is based on the true historical event of a gun battle in Tombstone City, Arizona in the 1880s. The film focuses on the character Wyatt Earp (played by Kurt Russell) and his friend Doc Holliday (played by Kurt Russell) Val Kilmer) when they come to Tombstone City to settle down. They must face off against a gang of enemies including the likes of Ike Clanton and Curly Bill Brocius, in a battle between justice and crime.
"Tombstone" was appreciated for the way the characters were created and acted, especially Val Kilmer's excellent performance as Doc Holliday. The film also received praise for its quality script, engaging scenes, and simultaneous action with humorous and emotional elements. It recreates a classic Wild West atmosphere and is a delightful entertainment for lovers of the cowboy genre.
"Tombstone" has become a classic of the cowboy genre and is one of the most famous works on the subject. With colorful gunfire, multi-dimensional characters and a compelling story, this film made a strong impression and is still loved by audiences to this day.
Release year: 1993
Directed by: George P. Cosmatos
Screenwriter: Kevin Jarre
Starring: Kurt Russell, Val Kilmer, Sam Elliott
Genre: Action, Western
Episodes: Not applicable (movie)
Status: Completed
America
IMDb Score: 7.8/10
9 Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid

Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid – Best Cowboy Movie. Image Source: IMDb
Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid - Best Cowboy Movie Trailer.
Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid is a 1969 cowboy film, directed by George Roy Hill. The film stars Paul Newman, Robert Redford, and Katharine Ross.
The story of "Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid" is based on the lives of two really talented bandits, Butch Cassidy (played by Paul Newman) and the Sundance Kid (played by Robert Redford). The two form a gang and together carry out daring robberies in the Wild West era. However, when authorities and bounty hunters pursue them, Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid are forced to flee the US and seek safety in Bolivia. But their lives are still not without dangers and challenges.
"Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid" is a classic and has become an icon of the cowboy genre. It is highly appreciated for the excellent acting of the lead couple Paul Newman and Robert Redford, and the multidimensional character creation. The film was also praised for its clever script, beautiful visuals, and appropriate music. It combines elements of humor, action and emotion, creating a story that captivates and engages the audience.
"Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid" is a must-see for those who love the cowboy genre and are looking for a classic with excellent acting and a colorful story. This film made a deep impression on the audience and is still considered one of the best cowboy movies of all time.
Release year: 1969
Directed by: George Roy Hill
Screenplay: William Goldman
Starring: Paul Newman, Robert Redford, Katharine Ross
Genre: Action, Western
Episodes: Not applicable (movie)
Status: Completed
America
IMDb Score: 8.0/10
10 The Duel

The Duel – Best Cowboy Movie. Image Source: IMDb
The Duel - Best Cowboy Movie Trailer.
"The Duel" is a 2016 cowboy film directed by Kieran Darcy-Smith. The film stars Woody Harrelson, Liam Hemsworth, and Alice Braga.
The story of "The Duel" takes place in the Wild West era and focuses on the character David Kingston (played by Liam Hemsworth), an undercover government agent. He is tasked with investigating the mysterious disappearance of many people in a small town near the Mexican border. Here he discovers the brutal rule of a notorious crime boss named Abraham Brant (played by Woody Harrelson). The two go head to head and intense and dangerous skirmishes begin.
"The Duel" offers a gripping and mysterious cowboy plot, with elements of drama and action packed with tension. The film creates a dark and rebellious atmosphere of the Wild West, with gun battles, intrigue and psychological games between the characters. The acting of Woody Harrelson and Liam Hemsworth is also highly appreciated, bringing multi-dimensionality and emotion to their roles.
Although not as popular as some other cowboy movies, "The Duel" is still an interesting choice for lovers of the genre. The film combines action, drama and emphasis into a fierce confrontation between the main character and the brutal evil.
Release year: 2016
Directed by: Kieran Darcy-Smith
Screenwriter: Matt Cook
Starring: Liam Hemsworth, Woody Harrelson
Genre: Action, Drama, Western
Episodes: Not applicable (movie)
Status: Completed
America
IMDb Score: 5.8/10