Summer invites you to imagine sunny days, outdoor adventures and a sense of freedom. And what better way to immerse yourself in that summer mindset and relax by enjoying a good western film.
The western genre has been a cinema mainstay for decades: it’s because stories set in the old American West can transport us to a whole different world.
If you’re looking for a refreshing way to escape the heat and enjoy exciting plots, this article suggests a selection of the most refreshing western films to enjoy during the summer. Some are great classics of the genre, others are more contemporary, but westerns are timeless, and all the films we suggest will provide you with guaranteed moments of entertainment. Let’s see what they are.
“Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid” (1969)
This great classic western starring Paul Newman and Robert Redford is a captivating film that combines action, humour, romance and camaraderie as it portrays the life and legend of these two charismatic outlaws, whose story has endured in the collective memory of cinema.
The two outlaws lead the gang known as “The Wild Bunch”, which carries out daring bank and train robberies. However, when the law begins to close in on them, Butch and Sundance are forced to flee to South America to escape prosecution.
In exile, the duo continues their misdeeds in Bolivia, but soon discover that their fame and reputation as ruthless outlaws precedes them. As they face increasingly dangerous challenges, Butch and Sundance are forced to face the dilemma of continuing their criminal lifestyle or finding a new way of life.
Unforgiven (1992)
Directed by and starring Clint Eastwood, “Unforgiven” is a masterpiece of the western genre that captivates audiences with its profound analysis of human nature and the consequences of violence in an unforgiving and ruthless environment. The film was critically acclaimed and received several awards, including four Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director for Clint Eastwood.
William Munny (played by Clint Eastwood) is a former gunfighter and retired outlaw who has left his violent past behind to lead a quiet life as a farmer and widower. However, a shortage of money and the need to provide for his children lead him to consider one last chance to earn money: a reward for killing two men who disfigured a prostitute.
With the promise of a juicy reward, Munny decides to come out of retirement and teams up with his old partner Ned Logan (played by Morgan Freeman) and the eager young Schofield Kid (played by Jaimz Woolvett) to carry out the task. But as they get closer to the target, Munny is confronted with his own brutality and the violence he thought he had left behind.
With breathtaking scenery and a captivating narrative, Unforgiven is a film that is sure to hook you to the screen on any summer afternoon or evening you enjoy it.
True Grit (2010)
If you’re looking for a western with a strong female lead, “True Grit” is the perfect choice. Directed by the Coen brothers and starring Hailee Steinfeld, Jeff Bridges and Matt Damon, “True Grit” is a captivating film that combines a thrilling tale of revenge and adventure with a deep and moving character study.
The film was praised for its strong script, the outstanding performance of the cast and its stunning recreation of the American West. Hailee Steinfeld’s performance as Mattie Ross earned her an Academy Award nomination, while the Coens’ distinctive approach to storytelling won plaudits from critics and audiences alike.
Brave and determined Mattie Ross (played by Hailee Steinfeld) is a fourteen-year-old girl who seeks to avenge the death of her father, murdered by the cowardly outlaw Tom Chaney (played by Josh Brolin). Bent on justice, Mattie enlists the services of tough, alcoholic U.S. Marshall Rooster Cogburn (played by Jeff Bridges).
Together, the unlikely trio venture on a perilous journey through vast and hostile territories, facing outlaws and natural hazards as they search for the killer. Along the way, Mattie learns lessons about bravery, loyalty and the true nature of justice.
With a compelling story and memorable characters, “True Grit” is a refreshing choice to enjoy on hot summer days.
Rango (2011)
If you prefer an animated western, “Rango” is a refreshingly fun choice. Starring Johnny Depp as the voice of a chameleon named Rango, this film stands out for its originality, clever humour and spectacular animations. Winner of the Academy Award for Best Animated Movie, the film captivates audiences of all ages with its captivating story and cast of unique and endearing characters.
The story follows a lonely, dreamy, nameless chameleon (voiced by Johnny Depp) who lives a monotonous life inside his terrarium in a modern city. However, his quiet existence is interrupted when, due to an accident, he finds himself lost in the middle of the desert.
Disoriented and aimless, the chameleon arrives in the arid dust village called Dirt, inhabited by anthropomorphic animals. There, he decides to assume the identity of “Rango” and introduces himself as a tough and reckless gunslinger. Rango impresses the townspeople with his attitude and unwittingly becomes the new sheriff.
“Rango” is a film for the whole family that will bring a fresh and colourful touch to summer evenings.
The magnificent seven (2016)
Directed by Antoine Fuqua, this modern remake of the iconic 1960 film brings with it a spectacular mix of action, adventure and thrills, as seven vigilantes become the last hope for an oppressed people and teach us the true meaning of bravery and sacrifice.
In a frontier town terrorised by the ruthless and greedy industrialist Bartholomew Bogue (played by Peter Sarsgaard), a group of helpless villagers decide to take a brave and risky step to confront the injustice and oppression they suffer. Desperate to protect their homes and loved ones, the villagers, led by Emma Cullen (played by Haley Bennett), seek the help of a group of men with exceptional skills. Emma finds Sam Chisolm (played by Denzel Washington), a skilled gunslinger and outlaw with an unwavering sense of justice.
Impressed by their determination and the passion with which they fight for their ideals, Chisolm decides to assemble a team of equally brave and formidable men to defend the town.
Whether you’re looking for action, comedy or intense thrills, our selection of westerns will offer you a refreshing and exciting summer cinematic experience. So sit back, pop some popcorn and enjoy the magic of the old west in the comfort of your own home.
And also remember that to “get in the mood” by watching your westerns, or simply to wear that authentic cowboy look you like so much this summer, at Corbetos’ you will find everything you need to achieve it: cowboy t-shirts, shirts, cowboy hats, caps, boots, ankle boots, jeans, belts and everything you can imagine.
Happy cinematic summer!
Botas rancheras americanas marrón claro de caña ancha
Sombrero monta western color arena fieltro rígido y ala estrecha
Cartuchera calibre 45 con canana revólver piel vacuno negra
Camisa blanca vaquera clásica americana Ranger's con pechera negra
Réplica revólver Colt con estrella en empuñadura
Absolutely loving the Yellowstone costumes! Beth and Rip’s Yellowstone costumes really capture the essence of the show’s rugged style. They’re a fantastic choice for anyone looking to channel that Western vibe.