Key Takeaways:
• ‘Horizon: An American Saga – Chapter 1’ now streams on VOD after a disappointing theatrical run.
• People rooting for modern westerns can indulge in other high-quality films of similar genre.
• ‘Tombstone’, ‘Dances With Wolves’, ‘A Man Called Horse’, ‘Little Big Man’, and ‘The Proposition’ make the top five pick.
Everyone who loves a good western movie, huddle up! If you have recently watched ‘Horizon: An American Saga – Chapter 1’ and desire more, we have compiled a list of some really cool modern westerns. In spite of its underperformance on the big screen, ‘Horizon’ is now available on VOD capturing hearts at home.
1. Tombstone (1993)
This one is a bit ironic! ‘Tombstone,’ tell the story of the same historic events overshadowed Costner’s own big-budget western ‘Wyatt Earp.’ Tombstone embraces classic storytelling, spicing it up with edgy violence, making it feel present-day. Kurt Russell delivered a defining performance. But Val Kilmer, playing Doc Holiday, nearly outshines everyone in the movie. We need a Tombstone in 4K, don’t we?
2. Dances With Wolves (1990):
There were debates about ‘Dances With Wolves’ winning the Best Picture and Director Oscar, over Scorsese’s ‘Goodfellas.’ But listen up, this film is nearly a masterpiece. It tells an impactful story of an army officer integrating into a Lakota tribe. And guess what, it has one of the best musical scores ever. Thanks to John Barry.
3. A Man Called Horse (1970)
This one is similar to ‘Dances With Wolves,’ but edgier. Richard Harris plays an English nobility captured by Sioux. He begins to value their lifestyle over time and finally joins the tribe after a grueling initiation ceremony. Moviemakers later left the realistic approach of the first film making it more like a fantasy. Still, the film inspired many top hits including ‘Dances With Wolves,’ ‘The Last Samurai,’ and ‘Avatar.’
4. Little Big Man (1970)
Meet a movie that starts off light and then transforms into a heavy-hitting tragedy. Dustin Hoffman plays a white man brought up by Cheyenne. He has a series of adventures including being a gunfighter, con man, and preacher. The movie portrays the near extermination of Cheyenne by General Custar. Some Asian actors played Native American roles to draw parallels to the Vietnam war. Its legacy has been growing with time, attracting praise globally.
5. The Proposition (2005)
This one is an amazing shift – westerns stepping out of the American West zone into the Australian Bush! Bandit Charlie, played by Guy Pearce, must hunt down his dangerous older brother to save his innocent younger one. Nick Cave and Warren Ellis added a superb score to an unforgettable performance delivered by Danny Huston. If you fancy this, don’t miss out on ‘The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford,’ also crafted by Cave.
Modern westerns have a unique place in the heart of cinema lovers. As we wait for ‘Horizon’s’ fate, we can binge-watch these cinematic gems. Each of them has something unique and remarkable to offer, leaving us asking for more. So grab your popcorn, and embark on a timeless journey through these classic, yet modern westerns. Whether you’ve seen them before or they’re new to you, these five movies are perfect additions to any movie lover’s list.
In conclusion, even if ‘Horizon: An American Saga – Chapter 1’ came up short at the box office, it retains potential streaming at homes. It’s now up to the viewers to determine its fate and possibly give a second film a chance. In the meantime, let’s savor some of the best modern Westerns cinema has gifted us. Happy watching!
