10 Western Films About Senators

Description: While not directly about a senator, this film features a character who is a judge with political ambitions, akin to a senator. It's included for its portrayal of frontier justice and political maneuvering in the Old West.

Fact: Gary Cooper's performance as Cole Harden earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor. The film was also notable for its depiction of the historical figure Judge Roy Bean.

Description: A senator turned judge struggles with his sanity and the moral complexities of justice in the aftermath of the Civil War, making it a unique blend of psychological drama and western.

Fact: Glenn Ford delivers a nuanced performance as the troubled senator. The film was one of the first to explore the psychological effects of war on its characters.

Description: A gunfighter with a past that includes political connections seeks redemption, reflecting the complex relationship between law, politics, and personal honor in the West.

Fact: Henry King directed this film, which was one of the first to portray the gunfighter as a tragic figure rather than a hero. Gregory Peck's performance was critically acclaimed.

Description: While not directly about a senator, this film features a character who is a former senator's son, exploring themes of legacy and the impact of political heritage in the West.

Fact: Directed by Budd Boetticher, this film is part of his acclaimed "Ranown Cycle" of westerns, known for their tight scripts and moral complexity.

Description: This classic western explores themes of law, justice, and the myth-making of the West, with a senator at its heart. Senator Ransom Stoddard's story is told through flashbacks, revealing how he became a legend.

Fact: John Wayne and James Stewart starred together in this film, making it one of the few times these two legends of the screen shared the screen. The film is often cited for its famous line, "When the legend becomes fact, print the legend."

Description: Although not directly about a senator, this film includes historical figures like Wild Bill Hickok and Buffalo Bill Cody, who were involved in political affairs of the time, offering a glimpse into the political landscape of the West.

Fact: The film was one of the first to use Technicolor, showcasing the vibrant landscapes of the West. It was also one of the last films directed by Cecil B. DeMille before his retirement.

Description: This film follows a senator who inadvertently reveals his political ambitions to become President, leading to a comedic and chaotic series of events. It's a light-hearted take on the political machinations of the time, set against the backdrop of post-war America.

Fact: The film was directed by George S. Kaufman, known for his work in both theater and film. It was also one of the first films to openly satirize the political aspirations of senators.

Description: This film features a character who is a senator's son, exploring themes of justice, land rights, and the clash between personal ambition and political duty.

Fact: Anthony Mann directed this film, known for his collaboration with James Stewart in several westerns. The film was shot on location in Canada, adding authenticity to its setting.

Description: A senator's son is on the run from the law, leading to a confrontation with a former lover and a cattle drive across the border. The film delves into themes of redemption, justice, and political legacy.

Fact: The film was directed by Robert Aldrich, known for his gritty and often dark films. It also features a score by Ernest Gold, who won an Oscar for his work on "Exodus."

Description: This film tells the story of a woman who supports her husband's political career, including his time as a senator, through the trials of the Old West.

Fact: Barbara Stanwyck gives a powerful performance, showcasing the strength and resilience of women in the West. The film was also notable for its use of flashbacks to tell the story.