8 Best-Rated Western Movies to Stream on Netflix Today
A safe choice for any movie night.
No matter who you're spending the evening with, watching a good western during a movie marathon is always a great idea.
Whether it's family, friends, or a significant other, a well-written, directed, and acted out adventure is sure to captivate each viewer and leave only the best impressions.
And if you are worried about whether the movie will live up to your expectations, trust the professional opinion of the critics. Here are 8 best western movies available on Netflix according to Rotten Tomatoes.
High Plains Drifter (94%)
This iconic 1973 Clint Eastwood film tells the story of a mysterious, unnamed stranger who rides out of the desert into the isolated mining town of Lago in the American Old West with one purpose: to bring justice. Eastwood stars in and directs the movie, making it a perfect showcase for all of his talents.
The Power of the Dog (94%)
Based on Thomas Savage's 1967 novel of the same name, this Western is much more recent. Surprisingly, it stars an English talent, Benedict Cumberbatch, alongside Kirsten Dunst and Jesse Plemons.
The movie takes viewers to 1920s Montana, where prosperous ranch owners Phil and George Burbank meet widowed innkeeper Rose Gordon. The events that took place from there are as tragic as they are disturbing.
The Furnace (90%)
For a slightly fresh perspective of a genre, this movie showcases Western Australia and the events that took place during the 1890s gold rush.
Although not widely known to audiences outside Australia, the film has received great reviews from both critics and audiences, so it may be just the hidden Netflix gem you were always looking for. Definitely worth a chance!
Blazing Saddles (89%)
Another American Western classic, released in 1974, written and directed by Mel Brooks, but completely different from the rest of the genre staples.
Blazing Saddles doesn't take itself too seriously, and even when it does, its ironic approach leaves viewers with nothing but laughs. Though critical reaction was mixed upon its initial release, the film has managed to find its audience over the years.
The Ballad of Buster Scruggs (89%)
Written, directed, and produced by the Coen Brothers, The Ballad of Buster Scruggs is an anthology western that filled its cast with celebrities. Starting with Liam Neeson and Clancy Brown and continuing with James Franco, the Coen brothers hit the jackpot by combining their unique storytelling style with a popular genre.
The Harder They Fall (88%)
A Netflix original with a budget of $90 million, The Harder They Fall can easily be called one of the most successful Netflix originals. Stepping into an unusual genre, Netflix made sure to put a lot of thought into the writing and directing.
All the characters are based on real cowboys, lawmen and outlaws of the 19th century American West and are portrayed by the brilliant cast, including big names like Jonathan Majors and Idris Elba.
Blood & Gold (85%)
Although the events of the film take place during World War II, the main plot of the fight for gold still alludes to the Western genre. The film is dynamic and packed with action, but still leaves room for emotion and meaningful dialogue. With such a risky mix of time period and overall genre, the movie manages to balance both.
Joe Kidd (80%)
Although this Eastwood movie has received much more criticism, in reality it still lands in the category of western classics.
With Clint Eastwood as Joseph Joe Kidd, the title character who's been thrown in jail for hunting on Indian land and disturbing the peace, and Robert Duvall as wealthy landowner Frank Harlan, viewers would be invited on a journey to protect the rightfully owned land.