Best Western Action Films Set on Ranches

Description: John Wayne stars as a Civil War veteran who embarks on a quest to rescue his niece from Comanche kidnappers. The ranch setting is where the story begins and ends.

Fact: Directed by John Ford, this film is often cited as one of the greatest westerns ever made. The iconic door frame shot at the end is one of the most recognized images in cinema.

Description: Although not exclusively set on a ranch, the film's climax features a ranch under siege, making it a fitting addition. It's about a group of gunfighters hired to protect a small village from bandits.

Fact: The film was a remake of Akira Kurosawa's "Seven Samurai," adapted to a western setting. It inspired numerous remakes and sequels.

Description: When a rancher is forced to hire schoolboys to drive his cattle, the journey turns into a thrilling adventure filled with danger and growth. The ranch setting is pivotal to the plot's development.

Fact: John Wayne, who plays the rancher, was 65 during filming, making this one of his last major roles. The film was also notable for its depiction of young boys taking on adult responsibilities.

Description: After his family is murdered, a farmer turns outlaw, seeking revenge. The ranch setting is where Josey finds solace and builds a new life amidst his quest for justice.

Fact: Clint Eastwood both starred in and directed this film, which was one of his first major directorial efforts. The film was shot in Utah and California.

Description: Four unlikely heroes come together to defend a ranch from a corrupt sheriff. The ranch setting is central to the film's action and the characters' development.

Fact: Kevin Kline, who plays Paden, was nominated for a Golden Globe for his performance. The film was shot in New Mexico, with the town of Silverado built specifically for the movie.

Description: While not entirely set on a ranch, the film includes significant scenes on the Earp brothers' ranch, where much of the action and drama unfolds.

Fact: Kurt Russell, who plays Wyatt Earp, also co-wrote the screenplay. The film was shot in various locations in Arizona to capture the authentic feel of the Old West.

Description: A mysterious woman arrives in a small town to participate in a deadly quick-draw contest. The ranch setting provides a backdrop for the intense duels and character development.

Fact: Sam Raimi, known for his work on "Evil Dead," directed this film, bringing his unique style to the western genre. Sharon Stone trained extensively with firearms for her role.

Description: This remake of the 1957 film focuses on a rancher who agrees to escort an outlaw to the train that will take him to prison. The ranch setting is integral to the story's tension and action.

Fact: The film was shot in New Mexico, with the town of Yuma recreated for the climax. Russell Crowe and Christian Bale both underwent extensive training for their roles.

Description: A young girl hires a tough U.S. Marshal to hunt down her father's killer. The ranch setting provides a backdrop for the film's gritty action and character interactions.

Fact: This film was a remake of the 1969 version, with Jeff Bridges taking on the role originally played by John Wayne. The Coen brothers adapted the screenplay, staying true to the novel's spirit.

Description: This film captures the essence of the old west with a story of cattle drovers facing off against a ruthless land baron. The ranch setting provides a backdrop for intense action sequences and a classic tale of justice.

Fact: Kevin Costner, who also directed the film, was inspired by the novel "The Open Range Men" by Lauran Paine. The film was shot on location in Alberta, Canada, to replicate the American West.