Rangers, often portrayed as guardians of the wilderness, have been a staple in cinema, embodying the spirit of adventure, survival, and conservation. This collection of films showcases various interpretations of rangers, from the rugged law enforcers of the wild west to the modern-day protectors of national parks. Each film provides a unique perspective on the life and challenges faced by these dedicated individuals, making this selection both entertaining and educational for those interested in nature, heroism, and the great outdoors.

The Wild Bunch (1969)
Description: This classic Western features a group of aging outlaws, including a former Texas Ranger, who plan one last heist. It's a gritty portrayal of the end of the Old West era.
Fact: The film was groundbreaking for its time due to its graphic violence and complex moral themes. It was one of the first films to show the end of the Western genre's romanticized view.


Jeremiah Johnson (1972)
Description: This film tells the story of a mountain man who becomes a legendary figure in the Rockies, often acting as a guide and protector, much like a ranger.
Fact: Robert Redford did much of his own stunts, including riding horses and handling firearms. The film was shot in Utah, providing stunning landscapes.


The Last of the Mohicans (1992)
Description: Set during the French and Indian War, this film features Hawkeye, a white man raised by Mohicans, who acts as a ranger and guide, helping a British officer's daughters through dangerous territory. It's a tale of survival, love, and cultural clash.
Fact: The film's score by Trevor Jones and Randy Edelman was highly acclaimed, with the main theme becoming iconic. Daniel Day-Lewis learned to speak Mohican for his role.


The Ghost and the Darkness (1996)
Description: While not about traditional rangers, this film features a British engineer and an American hunter who must track down man-eating lions, embodying the spirit of adventure and protection.
Fact: The film is based on a true story, and the lions' skins are on display at the Field Museum of Natural History in Chicago.


The Edge (1997)
Description: A billionaire and his companions are stranded in the Alaskan wilderness after a plane crash, where they must survive against nature and each other. Here, the concept of a ranger is explored through survival skills and leadership.
Fact: The film was shot in real Alaskan wilderness, adding authenticity to the survival scenes. Anthony Hopkins learned to fly fish for his role.


The Missing (2003)
Description: A rancher teams up with her estranged father, a former Army scout, to rescue her daughter from kidnappers. Their journey through the wilderness highlights the ranger-like qualities of survival and tracking.
Fact: Tommy Lee Jones, who plays the father, also directed the film. The movie was shot in New Mexico, providing an authentic backdrop.


The Lone Ranger (2013)
Description: This film follows the legendary masked hero, a Texas Ranger, who fights injustice with his Native American companion, Tonto. It's a modern take on the classic character, blending action, adventure, and a touch of humor.
Fact: Johnny Depp, who plays Tonto, was so committed to the role that he kept his costume on even when not filming. The film was also one of the most expensive Westerns ever made.


The Grey (2011)
Description: After a plane crash in the Alaskan wilderness, a group of oil workers, led by a man with ranger-like survival skills, must fend off wolves and the elements.
Fact: The film's ending was left ambiguous, allowing for multiple interpretations. Liam Neeson underwent survival training for his role.


The Revenant (2015)
Description: While not strictly about a ranger, Hugh Glass, played by Leonardo DiCaprio, is a fur trapper and guide, embodying the spirit of a ranger in his quest for survival after being left for dead.
Fact: DiCaprio's performance earned him an Academy Award for Best Actor. The film was shot in harsh conditions, with the cast and crew enduring extreme cold.


The Mountain Between Us (2017)
Description: Two strangers must work together to survive after a plane crash in the remote mountains, showcasing the ranger-like qualities of resilience and teamwork.
Fact: The film was shot in British Columbia, Canada, to mimic the harsh conditions of the Rockies. Idris Elba and Kate Winslet performed many of their own stunts.
