10 Best Westerns Like Tombstone

Although Tombstone stands out as an exemplary Western, there are several other great films of the genre with comparable quality. Tombstone boasts an incredible cast, headlined by Kurt Russell as Wyatt Earp and Val Kilmer as the iconic Doc Holiday. It’s no surprise that it quickly became a modern Western classic.

Tombstone has been praised for its gripping storyline, legendary characters, and intense showdowns. It doesn’t re-invent the Western but instead delivers on all fronts of the genre very well. While, some Westerns lean into spaghetti Western tropes, and others use horror to subvert the genre, there are a number of Western movies, like Tombstone, that deliver classic Western stories about the American frontier, the people who tried to tame them, and the lengths they’ll go for revenge and justice.

10

Wyatt Earp (1994)

Another Look At The Famous Lawman

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12

7.3/10

Wyatt Earp (1994)

PG-13
WesternDramaActionAdventure

Wyatt Earp (1994) is a biographical Western film directed by Lawrence Kasdan, starring Kevin Costner as the legendary lawman. The film chronicles Wyatt Earp’s life, focusing on his relationships with his brothers and his role in iconic events such as the Gunfight at the O.K. Corral. The cast includes Dennis Quaid as Doc Holliday and Gene Hackman as Nicholas Earp, providing a comprehensive exploration of Earp’s complex legacy.

Release Date

June 24, 1994

Runtime

190 Minutes

Main Genre

Western

Director

Lawrence Kasdan

Writers

Lawrence Kasdan
, Dan Gordon

Fans of Tombstone looking for a more introspective and expansive take on Wyatt Earp’s life will find much to appreciate in Wyatt Earp. Directed by Lawrence Kasdan and starring Kevin Costner as the legendary lawman, the film digs deeper into Earp’s character, exploring his childhood, family struggles, and the events that shaped him into a legendary figure of the Wild West.

While less action-packed than Tombstone, Wyatt Earp offers a more nuanced portrayal of its central character. It has a slower pace which focuses more on the complexities of justice and morality in a way that complements the thrills of Tombstone. The film’s sweeping cinematography and impressive supporting cast, including Dennis Quaid as Doc Holliday, make Wyatt Earp a must-watch companion piece.

9

The Quick and the Dead (1995)

Showdowns Take Center Stage

The Quick and the Dead (1995)

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9/10

The Quick and the Dead

R
WesternAction

The Quick and the Dead, directed by Sam Raimi, is a Western film released in 1995. It stars Sharon Stone as Ellen, a mysterious gunslinger who arrives in the town of Redemption to enter a quick-draw competition. The film features a strong ensemble cast including Gene Hackman, Russell Crowe, and Leonardo DiCaprio, and delves into themes of revenge and justice in a lawless town.

Release Date

February 9, 1995

Runtime

107 Minutes

Main Genre

Western

Cast

Sharon Stone
, Gene Hackman
, Russell Crowe
, Leonardo DiCaprio
, Tobin Bell
, Roberts Blossom
, Kevin Conway
, Keith David
, Lance Henriksen
, Pat Hingle
, Gary Sinise
, Mark Boone Junior
, Olivia Burnette
, Fay Masterson
, Raynor Scheine
, Woody Strode
, Jerry Swindall
, Scott Spiegel
, Jonothon Gill
, Sven-Ole Thorsen
, Lennie Loftin

Director

Sam Raimi

Writers

Simon Moore

Expand

Another 90’s western classic is Sam Raimi’s The Quick and the Dead. Unlike the previously mentioned films, The Quick and the Dead leans more into a stylized, heightened version of the West. It’s as if Raimi took all the archetypes of the genre and shoved them into one movie. And it works really well. Sharon Stone stars as Ellen, a mysterious gunslinger seeking vengeance in a small town controlled by Gene Hackman’s ruthless mayor, while Russel Crowe plays a preacher who refuses to fight. Not to mention, a babby-faced Leonardo DiCaprio as the cocky savant with a gun.

The film uses a tournament-style narrative where gunfighters have to duel for supremacy. It’s a fun, wild ride and Raimi uses every trick in his arsenal: kinetic editing, dramatic camera angles, and whip-fast zooms. With its mix of tension, dark humor, and raw emotion, The Quick and the Dead provides a modern, entertaining take on the genre.

8

Open Range (2003)

A Fight For Land

Open Range - Poster

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10/10

Open Range

R
ActionDramaRomance

Open Range is a Western film directed by and starring Kevin Costner. Released in 2003, the movie features Robert Duvall as Boss Spearman and Kevin Costner as Charley Waite, two cattle herders driving their herd across the American frontier. They become entangled in a violent conflict with a corrupt rancher, played by Michael Gambon. The film explores themes of justice, friendship, and redemption amidst the rugged landscapes of the West.

Release Date

August 15, 2003

Runtime

139 Minutes

Main Genre

Action

Cast

Kevin Costner
, Robert Duvall
, Diego Luna
, Abraham Benrubi
, Annette Bening
, Michael Gambon
, Michael Jeter
, James Russo

Director

Kevin Costner

Writers

Lauran Paine
, Craig Storper

Expand

Open Range offers a deeply satisfying Western experience. Directed by and starring Kevin Costner, alongside Robert Duvall, the film tells the story of two cattlemen who clash with a corrupt land baron. The film’s slow-burn narrative emphasizes the bonds of friendship and the struggle to uphold justice in a brutal and unforgiving world.

Duvall’s portrayal of Boss Spearman, a seasoned rancher with a moral code, perfectly complements Costner’s stoic and determined Charley Waite, a man haunted by his violent past. The climactic shootout, praised for its realism and visceral impact, rivals Tombstone’s best action sequences. Beyond the violence, Open Range offers heartfelt moments of humanity and redemption, making it a standout in the Western genre and a spiritual companion to Tombstone.

7

3:10 to Yuma (2007)

Getting To The Train On Time

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8.3/10

3:10 to Yuma

R
AdventureCrimeDramaWestern

A struggling rancher volunteers to escort a notorious outlaw to the train that will take him to prison. As the journey unfolds, both men engage in a psychological battle of wills, testing their morals and resolve while facing relentless danger from the outlaw’s gang and the harsh frontier.

Release Date

September 6, 2007

Runtime

122 minutes

Main Genre

Western

Cast

Russell Crowe
, Christian Bale
, Logan Lerman
, Dallas Roberts
, Ben Foster
, Peter Fonda

Director

James Mangold

Writers

Halsted Welles
, Michael Brandt
, Derek Haas
, Elmore Leonard

Cinematographer

Phedon Papamichael

Producer

Cathy Konrad

Production Company

Tree Line Film, Relativity Media, Lionsgate, Yuma, Columbia Pictures

Sfx Supervisor

Mark Dornfeld

Budget

$55 million

Expand

3:10 to Yuma is all about tension, morality, and character-driven drama. Directed by James Mangold, this remake of the 1957 classic stars Christian Bale as a down-on-his-luck rancher who has to escort a dangerous outlaw, played by Russell Crowe, to a train bound for justice. Their chemistry is incredible, with both characters slowly earning each other’s respect as things get more intense.

Like Tombstone, this movie dives into themes of duty, redemption, and how blurry the line between hero and villain can be. The pacing is perfect, keeping you on edge until the explosive finale. Plus, Ben Foster’s menacing performance as Crowe’s right-hand man adds even more layers of tension. With its gorgeous cinematography, complex characters, and emotional depth, 3:10 to Yuma is a must-watch for anyone who loves Westerns.

6

Unforgiven (1992)

A Masterpiece Meditation On Frontier Justice

Unforgiven Movie Poster

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15

9.4/10

Unforgiven

R
WesternDrama

Unforgiven follows retired gunslinger Will Munny as he is drawn back into his former life for a final mission, seeking justice with his old partner and a young outlaw called The Schofield Kid.

Release Date

August 7, 1992

Runtime

130 Mins

Main Genre

Western

Cast

Clint Eastwood
, Gene Hackman
, Morgan Freeman
, Richard Harris
, Jaimz Woolvett
, Saul Rubinek
, Frances Fisher
, Anna Thomson
, David Mucci
, Rob Campbell
, Anthony James
, Tara Frederick
, Beverley Elliott
, Liisa Repo-Martell
, Josie Smith
, Shane Thomas Meier
, Aline Levasseur
, Cherrilene Cardinal
, Robert Koons
, Ron White
, Mina E. Mina
, Henry Kope
, Jeremy Ratchford
, John Pyper-Ferguson

Director

Clint Eastwood

Writers

David Webb Peoples

Expand

Clint Eastwood’s Unforgiven is a gritty and introspective take on the Western genre, earning it a place as one of the most critically acclaimed films of its kind. Eastwood stars as William Munny, a former outlaw turned farmer who is pulled back into a life of violence for one last job. Alongside Morgan Freeman and Gene Hackman, the film explores the harsh realities of frontier justice, the cost of violence, and the myth of heroism.

What sets Unforgiven apart is its willingness to deconstruct the romanticized view of the Old West and the western genre in and of itself. It offers a darker and more nuanced portrayal of its characters and world. However, like Tombstone, fans will appreciate the film’s moral complexity, intense showdowns, and unforgettable performances. It’s a Western that challenges traditional tropes while still delivering the gunfights and tension that’s a mainstay of the genre.

5

Young Guns (1988)

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Young Guns

R
WesternActionDrama

A band of young gunslingers, led by the rebellious Billy the Kid, seeks retribution for the killing of their guardian. As they navigate the dangers of the Old West, their acts of vengeance draw the ire of both the law and their enemies.

Release Date

August 12, 1988

Runtime

107 Minutes

Main Genre

Western

Cast

Emilio Estevez
, Kiefer Sutherland
, Lou Diamond Phillips
, Charlie Sheen
, Dermot Mulroney
, Casey Siemaszko
, Terence Stamp
, Jack Palance

Director

Christopher Cain

Writers

John Fusco

Franchise

Young Guns

Sequel

Young Guns 2

Cinematographer

Dean Semler

Producer

Christopher Cain, Joe Roth

Production Company

Morgan Creek Entertainment, Twentieth Century Fox

Budget

$13 million

Expand

The Story Of Billy The Kid And His Regulators

Young Guns is an 80’s western classic for a reason. It features a young star-studded cast of the time led by Emilio Estevez, Kiefer Sutherland, and Charlie Sheen. The story follows the notorious Billy the Kid and his gang of outlaws, known as the Regulators, as they embark on a vengeance-fueled journey after the brutal murder of their mentor.

Like Tombstone, Young Guns explores themes of loyalty, revenge, and the powerful bond between these lawless men. However, it brings a fresh, youthful energy to the genre, setting it apart with its rock-infused soundtrack, thrilling action sequences, and a blend of humor and drama. The film captures the spirit of wild frontier justice, offering a captivating experience for fans of classic Westerns. For fans of Tombstone’s combination of camaraderie and intense showdowns, Young Guns is definitely worth the watch.

4

The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford (2007)

Poetry In The West

The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford - Poster

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The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford

R
BiographyCrimeDramaWestern

The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford is a period drama directed by Andrew Dominik. The film explores the life and death of the infamous outlaw Jesse James, played by Brad Pitt, and delves into the complex relationship between James and Robert Ford, portrayed by Casey Affleck. Set in the late 19th century, the movie offers a contemplative look at themes of heroism, betrayal, and the nature of celebrity.

Release Date

October 19, 2007

Runtime

160 minutes

Main Genre

Western

Cast

Brad Pitt
, Mary-Louise Parker
, Brooklynn Proulx
, Dustin Bollinger
, Casey Affleck
, Sam Rockwell

Director

Andrew Dominik

Writers

Andrew Dominik
, Ron Hansen

Expand

Perhaps the outlier in this list, The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford, is a poetic, artistic character study. It doesn’t have dramatic shootouts or fast-paced action. Instead, it somberly delves into themes of fame, betrayal, and mortality. However, like Tombstone, the movie focuses on real legends of the American west and the stories and myths that surround them. Brad Pitt stars as Jesse James and Casey Affleck as Robert Ford, the man who infamously turned on James and shot him in the back.

Affleck’s nuanced portrayal of the insecure and envious Ford even gave him an Oscar nomination, while Pitt’s commanding presence as James captures the outlaw’s famed charisma and paranoia. The film’s meditative pace and stunning cinematography create a haunting atmosphere that mirrors the mythic qualities of the Old West. It offers a stark contrast to the shootouts of Tombstone, making it an essential watch for those drawn to the psychological depths of gunslingers in the West.

3

My Darling Clementine (1946)

The Vintage Take On Wyatt Earp And The Shootout At The O.K. Corral

My Darling Clementine Poster

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My Darling Clementine

Passed
DramaRomanceWestern

My Darling Clementine, directed by John Ford, follows Wyatt Earp and his brothers as they seek justice in Tombstone. They confront the Clanton clan after their cattle are stolen and brother is killed. Earp allies with Doc Holliday, setting the stage for a showdown in this classic Western narrative.

Release Date

December 2, 1946

Runtime

97 Minutes

Main Genre

Drama

Cast

Henry Fonda
, Linda Darnell
, Victor Mature
, Cathy Downs
, Walter Brennan

Director

John Ford

Writers

Samuel G. Engel
, Winston Miller
, Sam Hellman

Budget

$2 Million

Studio(s)

Twentieth Century Fox

Distributor(s)

Twentieth Century Fox

Expand

No list of Western films would be complete without an entry from the legend John Ford. Like Tombstone, Ford’s 1946 classic My Darling Clementine depicts Wyatt Earp and his brothers as they move into Tombstone and are forced to maintain order in the lawless town. It dives into his relationship with Doc Holiday and, of course, the eventual shootout at the O.K. Corral.

With its stunning black-and-white cinematography, sweeping landscapes, and sharp dialogue, Ford’s expert direction made My Darling Clementine a masterclass in the genre. Much like Tombstone, the relationships between the Earp brothers are central, exploring their loyalty and their desire to uphold justice, no matter the cost. While it’s a slower-paced film compared to Tombstone, it captures the same themes of loyalty, duty, and the inevitability of violence in the Old West.

2

The Outlaw Josey Wales (1976)

The Cost Of Violence

The Outlaw Josey Wales - Poster

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10/10

The Outlaw Josey Wales

PG
WesternDramaAction

The Outlaw Josey Wales is a 1976 Western film directed by and starring Clint Eastwood. Set during and after the American Civil War, the film follows Josey Wales, a Missouri farmer seeking revenge for the murder of his family by Union soldiers. As he becomes an outlaw, Wales forms an unlikely band of outcasts and confronts various adversaries while struggling with his quest for vengeance and a chance at redemption.

Release Date

July 14, 1976

Runtime

135 minutes

Main Genre

Western

Cast

Clint Eastwood
, Chief Dan George
, Sondra Locke
, Bill McKinney
, John Vernon
, Paula Trueman

Director

Clint Eastwood

Writers

Forrest Carter
, Philip Kaufman
, Sonia Chernus

Expand

Clint Eastwood’s The Outlaw Josey Wales is a gritty, no-holds-barred Western that dives deep into revenge, loss, and the search for redemption. The story centers on Josey Wales, played by Eastwood, a Confederate soldier turned outlaw, who is out for vengeance after his family is brutally killed. Eastwood’s portrayal of Wales is magnetic—he brings a perfect mix of tough guy grit and raw vulnerability, making him one of the most memorable characters in Western cinema.

Like Tombstone, The Outlaw Josey Wales explores the emotional and moral cost of violence. It’s not just about gunfights and action (though there’s plenty of that) but about the personal toll revenge takes and the unexpected bonds that form in the process. With its rich post-Civil War backdrop, intense character development, and unforgettable moments, this film is a must-watch for any fan of Westerns, especially if you love Tombstone’s mix of grit, drama and heart.

1

The Long Riders (1980)

A True Story Of A Gang Of Brothers

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9/10

The Long Riders

R
WesternAction

The Long Riders, released in 1980, is a Western film that chronicles the origins and exploits of the James gang. Focusing on the sympathetic portrayal of the infamous bank robbers, the film highlights their legendary raids, driven by a quest for revenge, featuring a cast of real-life brothers.

Release Date

May 16, 1980

Runtime

99 minutes

Cast

David Carradine
, Keith Carradine
, Robert Carradine
, James Keach
, Stacy Keach
, Dennis Quaid
, Randy Quaid
, Kevin Brophy
, Harry Carey, Jr.
, Christopher Guest
, Nicholas Guest
, Shelby Leverington
, Felice Orlandi
, Pamela Reed
, James Remar
, Fran Ryan
, Savannah Smith Boucher
, Amy Stryker
, James Whitmore Jr.
, John Bottoms
, West Buchanan
, Edward Bunker
, Martina Deignan
, Allan Graf
, Chris Mulkey

Director

Walter Hill

Producers

Tim Zinnemann

Writers

Bill Bryden
, James Keach
, Stacy Keach

YouTube Trailer

Expand

The Long Riders is a great pick for fans of Tombstone, especially fans of movies that blend action with family drama. This film focuses on the infamous James-Younger Gang, a group of outlaw brothers who became legends in the American West. Based on a true story, The Long Riders takes a closer look at the real-life outlaws and their rise to fame, offering a fresh perspective on the James-Younger Gang’s brutal reign. What makes it especially cool is that the real-life Carradine brothers play the roles of the infamous outlaws.

The Long Riders stand out not just because of the wild shootouts and bank robberies, but it also digs deep into the bond between the brothers, showing how loyalty and blood can drive people to do unspeakable things. Just like how Tombstone explored the Earp brothers’ dynamic and their fight for justice, The Long Riders captures the complex relationships between families in impossible situations. It’s got plenty of action, ambiguous moral characters, and a touch of history—everything that makes Westerns so compelling.

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8/10

192

9.5/10

Tombstone

R
WesternBiographyDrama

Tombstone is a Western film loosely based on true events. When a group of outlaws known as the Cowboys ride into a town and slay several police officers for revenge for the death of two of their gang members, word of their misdeeds reaches the ears of a retired lawman. Gathering a group together, the new vigilantes will defend the town and aim to end the terror of the Cowboys.

Release Date

December 25, 1993

Runtime

130 minutes

Main Genre

Western

Cast

Bill Paxton
, Charlton Heston
, Sam Elliott
, Powers Boothe
, Val Kilmer
, Kurt Russell
, Michael Biehn
, Jason Priestley

Director

George P. Cosmatos
, Kevin Jarre

Writers

Kevin Jarre

Budget

$25 million

Expand

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