The tales of the Wild West have long been a source of inspiration for cinema. Something about the untamed frontier, the vast open landscape, and the endless possibilities bring a promise of adventure and a spirit of exploration. The reality of life in the West was tougher, which is why the tales of the American frontier are so riveting.
It comes as no surprise that Hollywood has exploited the genre to no end. The West has provided filmmakers with the perfect backdrop for stories laced with action, drama, romance, and humor. Among those who have shaped our understanding and imagination oflife in the Old Westare the creative minds and brilliant actors at Disney.
Disney has found a way to take universal themes of the human experience and infuse them with enough heart, humor, and spectacle that the resultingWestern moviecan be enjoyed by younger and older audiences alike. Even as technology advanced,Disneywas devoted to crafting takes of the wilderness with authenticity and maintaining the gritty arcs one would expect from the genre. Spanning decades, this list is a celebration of 20 of Disney’s finest contributions to the genre.
20Treasure of Matecumbe (1976)
An exhilarating adventure Western film directed by Vincent McEveety,Treasure of Matecumbetakes you to the humble abode of young Davie Burnie, who lives with his aunts in post-Civil War Kentucky. When word arrives that Davie’s father has left him a map that leads to a buried treasure on the Florida isle of Matecumbe, he’s compelled to embark on a quest. His father’s enemy is hot on his hills and so is the threat of a hurricane, but Davie goes on.
An Imaginative Western
McEveety filmsTreasure of Matecumbeon location, bringing the gorgeous natural backdrops of Danville, Sacramento River, and Disney’s own Golden Oak Ranch in California to the screen with scenic correctness. It fires the imagination with stunning action sequences and just the right note of levity. Johnny Doran is brilliant as Davie because he adds emotion and humor tothe whimsical and nostalgic saga. Overall, as critics say, the movie is made up of “includes murder, mystery and an exciting journey.”Stream on Disney+.
19Tonka (1958)
Adapted from David Appel’s book Comanche: Story of America’s Most Heroic Horse,Tonkatells the tale of the Great Sioux War of 1876 and a wild colt who switches between owners but serves as an important element to the time. Tonka is a trained stallion captured by White Bull, a young Sioux. Despite promising to lend the horse to his abusive cousin, White Bull lets Tonka escape. A U.S. Cavalry captain named Keogh bound for the Battle of the Little Bighorn finds Tonka and rides him, and the horse emerges as the only survivor.
Authentic Coming-of-Age Story
Pairing a spirited horse with various riders as they face life and its hardships,Tonkais a heartwarming movie that tugs at your emotions. As a Western, it also salutes the spirit of the Wild West with breathtaking visuals and true-to-time details. Sal Mineo, Britt Lomond, and Philip Carey lend their rugged charm and bring to life characters that offer a deeper glimpse into the Indian nation. That said,Tonkais a beautiful coming-of-age story.Rent on Apple TV.
Related:The 10 Most Rewatchable Western Movies
18Miracle of the White Stallions (1963)
Starring Robert Taylor, Lilli Palmer, and Eddie Albert,Miracle of the White Stallionstells a tale of human resilience and freedom. Set in Vienna during World War II, the movie takes place in the Spanish Riding School, where purebred white show horses that hold much importance in history stay in sanctuary. But as Europe begins to crumble under the effects of war, Austrian Col. Alois Podhajsky tries to rescue his beloved Lipizzaner horses.
A Real-Life Tale About Courage
Not only doesMiracle of the White Stallionsfeature the graceful stallions in all their glory, but it also celebrates them as a Viennese symbol with great amount of beauty and thrills. Taylor and Palmer give nuanced performances as protectors who face danger, obstacles, and harsh winter, and risk everything to save the magnificent Lipizzaner horses. The epic vistas paired with the struggles faced by the horses are portrayed realistically and with rousing impact.
17Westward Ho, the Wagons! (1956)
Directed by William Beaudine, this Disney western is based on Mary Jane Carr’s novel Children of the Covered Wagon. Set in 1846, it follows an experienced James Stephen, who is familiar with the Oregon Trail and now seeks to leada group of adventure seeking familieson their travels. Facing occasional raids from hostile Pawnees, they somehow make it to Fort Laramie, where John Grayson rises as the real leader.
Proves That Kids Can Conquer Anything
Westward Ho, the Wagons!captures the spirit of pioneering kids. Fess Parker, George Reeves, and Kathleen Crowley lend their immeasurable talents and open the frontier to the imagination of the viewers. Their lively and humor-laced performances do little to ease the tension, but it remains forever inspiring. As a Disney live-action film,Westward Ho, the Wagons!tries to shine the spotlight on kids, and fair enough, because they end up playing an important part.Rent on Apple TV.
16John Carter (2012)
John Carter
Blending elements of science fiction and action into a classic Western adventure,John Carterfollows the titular character, a former American Civil War Confederate Army captain who finds himself mysteriously transported to a dying planet called Barsoom. Known to Carter as Mars, the planet is currently experiencing a bloody power struggle for dominance. The war veteran, who discovers he has supernatural abilities, not only gets caught in the misfire but also becomes responsible for ensuring peace.
Epic Cross-Planet Action Adventure
John Carterisbased on a series of bookswritten by Edgar Rice Burroughs, who had a thrilling vision for the planet of Barsoom. While the movie does absolute justice in bringing the frontier, the battles, and the arenas to life on a global scale, praise goes to Taylor Kitsch’s leading, who is as charming as he is cheesy. Under Andrew Stanton’s direction, the movie delivers non-stop entertainment and spectacular thrills.Stream on Disney+.
15The Light in the Forest (1958)
Another phenomenal Walt Disney Productions western drama,The Light in the Foresttakes place during the French and Indian War, when a young white boy finds himself in the land of Native Americans. They name him Trueson, and he grows up to be a dedicated teenager, but following a peace treaty, he is forced to return to the 18th-century civilization of his own people. For someone who has only ever known home as rural Pennsylvania, John grapples with his identity and learns more about culture and conflict.
Simple and Outdoorsy
In classic Disney fashion,The Light in the Forestis a movie that is “wholesome, in a nice, simple, outdoor way, and the scenery is pretty in color,” which is enough to entertain both children and adults. Sensitively handling its themes of identity and belonging, the narrative is anchored by performances from James MacArthur and Fess Parker. Filmed on location, the movie transports us to the frontier and proves how the Western genre is the perfect vehicle for understanding social and cultural divides.
14Johnny Tremain (1957)
Clocking at an hour and 20 minutes is Robert Stevenson’s low-budget Western drama. The movie is based on Esther Forbes' acclaimed novel of the same name, and it follows the apprentice silversmith undergoing a tragic accident and losing his hand. Struggling with his disability, Johnny finds purpose as an aide for the Sons of Liberty, who task him with delivering secret messages. The job requires Johnny to use his intellect instead of skills, and soon, he becomes integral to the American Revolution.
A Historical Masterpiece
Taking place in 18th-century Boston,Johnny Tremaintells the story of one man’s courage and how he changed the course of history. It captures the heart and spirit of independence through the eyes of a determined hero, who is played by Hal Stalmaster. Luana Patten, Jeff York, and Sebastian Cabot. The period-accurate detail brings a pivotal time in history to rich life. But most importantly, the historical masterpiece proves that when duty calls, even the most ordinary souls can become extraordinary.Rent on Apple TV.
Related:9 Western Movies With 100% on Rotten Tomatoes
13Savage Sam (1963)
Following the success of Robert Stevenson’s Old Yeller, Disney went on to make another delightful and silly live-action film as a sequel. Centered around Old Yeller’s son,Savage Sam, the movie follows 18-year-old Travis Coates and his 12-year-old brother, Arliss, left in charge of their family farm and ailing grandmother. Savage Sam is a constant tracking companion to Arliss. But when a scheming tribe of Apaches manage to hold the boys and the neighbor’s daughter captive, it is up to Savage Sam to rescue them.
A Side-Splitting Sequel to a Disney Classic
The sequel charmed all the audiences with its hilarious and touching animal antics. Tommy Kirk and Kevin Corcoran brought an endearing spirit as the young Coates living large in their parents’ absence. Under the direction of Norman Tokar, the beautiful and panoramic visuals of the 1870s prairies are dazzling. Moreover, the poignant message that friendship often comesin the form of a furry companion, resonates loudly.Rent on Apple TV.
12The Castaway Cowboy (1974)
The Castaway Cowboyis pretty much what the title suggests. Directed by Vincent McEveety, the movie centers around a Texas cowboy named Lincoln Costain, who is “shanghaied” in San Francisco. Washing ashore on a remote Hawaiian island and struggling to survive alone, he befriends a widow, Henrietta MacAvoy, and her son. He helps the duo build a cattle ranch and make a living, but outside forces threaten their prosperity.
Captures the Splendor of the Wild West
Taking the idea of colonial encroachment and its effect on ordinary people and giving it a thoughtful Disney twist,The Castaway Cowboyenvisions itself as a fish-out-of-water comedy. It envelopsthe Wild West’s natural splendorand finds solace within its iconic cinematography.
James Garner delivers a complex hero learning what it means to live in adversity, while Vera Miles plays the widow with subtle grit. Robert Culp brings the villainous banker to life. Overall, the movie succeeds because it does not try to be unnecessarily provocative, just promising and poignant.Stream on Disney+.
11Return to Snowy River (1988)
A sequel to the 1982 Australian drama film of the same name,Return to Snowy River(also known as The Man from Snowy River II) is a family Western that follows Jim Craig, who comes of age on his family’s rugged frontier homestead and shows as much bravery and courage as the mustangs in the film. Years after a dangerous ride, he returns home to spend time with his girl, Jessica Harrison. However, when Craig learns that Alistair Patton, the son of a banker, is trying to woo her, they get into a duel.
A Western with a Swelling Score
The romantic Western swept audiences away with its extraordinary narrative. Set against the backdrop of majestic Australian vistas, it was also a box office success. Some aspects of the movie that make it brilliant are breathtaking visuals, skilled portrayal of horsemanship, and a richly-written love story.Return to Snowy Riveralso won the APRA Award for Best Original Music Score, the credit of which goes to Bruce Rowland.Rent on Apple TV.
