More Than 10 Years Later, Western Fans Still Argue Which of These 2 Films Was the Decade’s #1

The Western genre has long been a cornerstone of American cinema. There are even periods called the Golden Age of Westerns, and movies that are considered life-changing. It’s only natural that fans often try to decide which films are worthy of being named the best in each decade, and it seems like the 10’s beef is still going strong.

The two finalists are 2010’s True Grit and 2016’s Hell or High Water. So you must understand the level of tension, right? More than a decade after their release, fans and critics continue to debate which film holds the title of the #1 Western of its time. Let’s see what both have to offer.

What Is True Grit About?

True Grit marked the Coen Brothers' return to the genre, offering a faithful adaptation of Charles Portis’ novel. Set in the 19th century, the film follows Hailee Steinfeld’s Mattie Ross as she seeks justice for her father's murder, recruiting a weathered U.S. Marshal Rooster Cogburn, played brilliantly by Jeff Bridges.

The movie was critically acclaimed, especially for its performances, and it's important to note that it was actually Steinfeld's breakout role. Another thing that makes it a standout is its faithful yet innovative take on the classic Western stories we all love. Coen's film is filled with dark humor, sharp dialogue, and a bleak view of the human condition.

“No other filmmaker that I know of adhered so completely to authenticity like the Coens did by having the characters not use modern contractions in the language (will not in place of won't, for example). Everything about this film screamed authentic Western. His climactic shootout scene was up there with the best in all of the genre's history, in my opinion,” one Redditor said.

Hell or High Water Is a Modern Western With Social Commentary

On the other hand, David Mackenzie's 97% rated Hell or High Water is an excellent film that blends elements of the modern Western with a heist thriller. Set in present day Texas, the movie follows two brothers, played by Chris Pine and Ben Foster, who rob banks to save their family's farm. Fair enough…

Hell or High Water also received widespread praise for its sharp social commentary, touching on themes of economic hardship, class divide and the American Dream. The film's grit and authenticity, combined with an unforgettable performance by Bridges, made it a standout.

Well, it seems that the argument will continue until one of the two groups of fans is ready to settle. If you can't answer that question as well, it's time to check out both True Grit and Hell or High Water on Apple TV and make up your own mind.