- The Wild Bunch (1969)
- The Train Robbers (1973)
- The Missouri Breaks (1976)
- The Outlaw Josey Wales (1976)
- The Long Riders (1980)
- The Newton Boys (1998)
- 3:10 to Yuma (2007)
- The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford (2007)
- The Great Northfield Minnesota Raid (1972)
- The Ballad of Buster Scruggs (2018)
The Wild West is often portrayed through the lens of outlaws, sheriffs, and cowboys, but what about the bankers who played a pivotal role in shaping the economic landscape of the frontier? This curated collection of 10 films delves into the lives of bankers in the Western genre, offering a fresh perspective on the era's financial dynamics and the moral dilemmas faced by those who held the purse strings. These films not only entertain but also provide a deeper understanding of the economic underpinnings of the Wild West, making them a valuable watch for both cinephiles and history enthusiasts alike.
The Wild Bunch (1969)
Description: This classic Western features a group of aging outlaws who plan one last bank robbery, showcasing the changing times and the decline of the Old West's outlaw culture.
Fact: The film was nominated for two Academy Awards and has been preserved in the National Film Registry for its cultural significance.
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The Train Robbers (1973)
Description: Although focused on a train heist, the film includes a subplot where a banker hires a group to recover stolen gold, illustrating the financial stakes involved.
Fact: This was one of John Wayne's last films before his death.
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The Missouri Breaks (1976)
Description: While primarily a tale of a cattle baron and a horse thief, it includes a subplot where a banker is involved in the economic power struggles of the time.
Fact: This was one of the last films for director Arthur Penn, known for his work on "Bonnie and Clyde."
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The Outlaw Josey Wales (1976)
Description: While not directly about a banker, the film includes scenes where Josey Wales interacts with a town's banker, highlighting the economic dynamics of the time.
Fact: The film was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Original Score.
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The Long Riders (1980)
Description: Featuring real-life brothers playing the James-Younger Gang, this film includes scenes of bank robberies and the impact on the local banking community.
Fact: The film was notable for casting actual brothers to play the gang members, enhancing the authenticity of the portrayal.
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The Newton Boys (1998)
Description: This film tells the story of the Newton Gang, one of the most successful bank robbers in history, and their interactions with bankers and law enforcement.
Fact: The film was directed by Richard Linklater, known for his unique storytelling style.
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3:10 to Yuma (2007)
Description: While not directly about a banker, the film features a rancher who takes on the role of a 'banker' by escorting an outlaw to justice, showcasing the economic stakes involved in maintaining law and order.
Fact: The film was a remake of the 1957 film of the same name, and it was nominated for two Academy Awards.
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The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford (2007)
Description: The film explores the relationship between Jesse James and Robert Ford, with a subplot involving a bank robbery, illustrating the impact of outlaws on local economies and banking.
Fact: The film was nominated for two Academy Awards, including Best Supporting Actor for Casey Affleck.
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The Great Northfield Minnesota Raid (1972)
Description: This film recounts the James-Younger Gang's failed bank robbery in Northfield, Minnesota, focusing on the town's bankers and their response to the threat.
Fact: The film was one of the last roles for actor Cliff Robertson before his semi-retirement.
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The Ballad of Buster Scruggs (2018)
Description: This anthology film by the Coen Brothers includes a segment titled "The Ballad of Buster Scruggs," where a banker is involved in a stagecoach robbery, highlighting the vulnerability of financial institutions in the West.
Fact: This film was nominated for three Academy Awards, including Best Adapted Screenplay.
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