The Wild West is often portrayed as a lawless land of gunslingers and outlaws, but beneath the surface lies a rich tapestry of economic ventures and entrepreneurial spirit. This curated list of 10 Western films delves into the world of business in the frontier, showcasing how commerce, trade, and ambition shaped the era. From cattle barons to railroad tycoons, these films offer a unique perspective on the economic underpinnings of the American West, providing both entertainment and insight into the business dynamics of the time.
The Big Country (1958)
Description: This epic Western explores the clash between two ranching families over water rights, highlighting the business of cattle ranching and land ownership.
Fact: The film was shot on location in California's Mojave Desert, and the ranch house set was so large it was used for other films afterward.
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The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance (1962)
Description: While primarily a story of law and order, it also touches on the business of newspaper publishing and the impact of media on frontier politics.
Fact: John Wayne and James Stewart, both icons of Western cinema, star together for the first time in this film.
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The Ballad of Cable Hogue (1970)
Description: A story of a man who strikes it rich by establishing a stagecoach stop, showcasing the entrepreneurial spirit and the business of transportation in the West.
Fact: Sam Peckinpah directed this film, which is often cited as one of his most personal works.
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The Cowboys (1972)
Description: John Wayne plays a rancher who hires schoolboys to drive his cattle to market, showcasing the business of cattle drives and the economic necessity of the time.
Fact: This was one of the last films John Wayne made before his death, and it was a box office success.
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The Life and Times of Judge Roy Bean (1972)
Description: This film portrays the life of Judge Roy Bean, who turns a saloon into a courthouse, highlighting the business of law enforcement and justice in the West.
Fact: Paul Newman plays the titular character, and the film features a memorable performance by Ava Gardner.
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The Missouri Breaks (1976)
Description: A tale of a horse thief and a rancher, it delves into the business of horse trading and the economic tensions between different classes in the West.
Fact: The film features an unusual pairing of Marlon Brando and Jack Nicholson, with Brando's performance being particularly noted for its eccentricity.
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The Outlaw Josey Wales (1976)
Description: While primarily a revenge tale, it also touches on the business of trading and survival in the post-Civil War West.
Fact: Clint Eastwood not only stars but also directed this film, which became one of his most iconic roles.
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Heaven's Gate (1980)
Description: This film, despite its troubled production, examines the conflict between immigrant settlers and wealthy cattle barons, focusing on land rights and economic power.
Fact: Initially a box office bomb, it has since been reappraised and is now considered a cult classic.
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The Professionals (1966)
Description: A group of mercenaries are hired to rescue a kidnapped wife, touching on the business of mercenaries and the economic implications of ransom.
Fact: The film features an all-star cast including Burt Lancaster, Lee Marvin, and Claudia Cardinale.
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The Far Country (1954)
Description: A cattle drive to the Yukon gold rush, this film explores the business of cattle drives and the economic opportunities of the gold rush.
Fact: Filmed in part in Canada, it showcases the rugged beauty of the Yukon landscape.
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