10 Movies & Shows Similar to True Grit (2010)

Description: 'Open Range' shares with 'True Grit' a focus on the code of honor and justice in the Old West, as well as a realistic portrayal of frontier life. Both films feature a strong, silent protagonist who is forced to confront violence and corruption, and both emphasize the importance of loyalty and personal integrity. The films also share a visually stunning depiction of the Western landscape.

Fact: Kevin Costner, who stars in and directs the film, had not directed a film in nearly a decade before 'Open Range'. The film's climactic shootout is considered one of the most realistic and intense in Western cinema. The film was a critical and commercial success, helping to revive Costner's career.

Description: Like 'True Grit', '3:10 to Yuma' is a Western that delves into themes of redemption, moral complexity, and the bonds formed between unlikely allies. Both films feature a journey narrative, with characters forced to rely on each other in harsh, unforgiving environments. The films also share a gritty, realistic portrayal of the Old West, with a focus on character development over action.

Fact: This film is a remake of the 1957 film of the same name, which was based on a short story by Elmore Leonard. Russell Crowe and Christian Bale, the two leads, reportedly did not get along during filming, which added tension to their on-screen dynamic. The film was a critical and commercial success, helping to revive interest in the Western genre in the 2000s.

Description: This film shares with 'True Grit' a focus on the myth and reality of the American West, exploring themes of justice, revenge, and the moral ambiguities of frontier life. Both films feature a strong, determined protagonist navigating a lawless landscape, and both are noted for their poetic, lyrical storytelling and stunning cinematography that captures the beauty and brutality of the West.

Fact: The film is based on the novel of the same name by Ron Hansen, which itself is a fictionalized account of the real-life relationship between Jesse James and Robert Ford. Brad Pitt, who plays Jesse James, also served as a producer on the film. The film's cinematographer, Roger Deakins, is renowned for his work on other Westerns and was nominated for an Academy Award for this film.

Description: Like 'True Grit', 'Appaloosa' is a Western that explores themes of law and order in a lawless land, as well as the complexities of friendship and loyalty. Both films feature a strong, no-nonsense protagonist who is tasked with bringing justice to a corrupt town, and both emphasize the importance of personal codes of honor. The films also share a dry, understated humor.

Fact: The film is based on the novel by Robert B. Parker, who also wrote the 'Spenser' detective novels. Ed Harris, who stars in and directs the film, had been trying to get the project off the ground for over a decade. The film features a rare Western score by Jeff Beal, which avoids the traditional orchestral approach in favor of a more minimalist style.

Description: While 'The Revenant' is more of a survival drama than a traditional Western, it shares with 'True Grit' a focus on a protagonist's relentless pursuit of justice and revenge in a harsh, unforgiving landscape. Both films are noted for their stunning cinematography and immersive, visceral storytelling, and both explore themes of endurance, resilience, and the brutality of nature.

Fact: Leonardo DiCaprio won his first Academy Award for his performance in the film. The film was shot entirely with natural light, a decision that added to the film's realism but also made filming extremely challenging. The film's director, Alejandro G. Iñárritu, and cinematographer, Emmanuel Lubezki, had previously collaborated on 'Birdman'.

Description: While 'Django Unchained' is more violent and stylized than 'True Grit', both films are Westerns that explore themes of justice, revenge, and the struggle for survival in a lawless society. Both films also feature strong, determined protagonists who are driven by a personal quest, and both blend traditional Western elements with unique directorial visions.

Fact: Quentin Tarantino wrote the script in just under six months, inspired by spaghetti Westerns and blaxploitation films. The film won two Academy Awards, including Best Original Screenplay for Tarantino. Jamie Foxx, who plays Django, did most of his own stunts, including horseback riding and shooting.

Description: While 'Bone Tomahawk' blends Western and horror elements, it shares with 'True Grit' a focus on a small group of characters embarking on a dangerous mission in the Old West. Both films explore themes of survival, loyalty, and the brutality of frontier life, and both feature strong, memorable performances from their casts. The films also share a slow-burning, tension-filled narrative.

Fact: The film marks the directorial debut of S. Craig Zahler, who also wrote the screenplay. The film's cast includes Kurt Russell, who is known for his roles in other Westerns and action films. The film's violence is notoriously graphic, earning it a reputation as one of the most brutal Westerns ever made.

Description: Similar to 'True Grit', 'The Hateful Eight' is a Western that focuses on a group of morally ambiguous characters in a confined, tense setting. Both films explore themes of trust, betrayal, and justice, and both feature strong, memorable dialogue and a slow-burning narrative that builds to a violent climax. The films also share a snowy, isolated setting that adds to the tension.

Fact: The film was originally written as a novel by Tarantino, who later adapted it into a screenplay. The film was shot in 70mm, a format rarely used since the 1960s, to emphasize its epic scale. Ennio Morricone composed the film's score, his first Western score in over 30 years, for which he won an Academy Award.

Description: Like 'True Grit', 'The Sisters Brothers' is a Western that blends dark humor with a poignant exploration of brotherhood, morality, and the changing nature of the Old West. Both films feature a pair of protagonists who are both ruthless and sympathetic, and both emphasize the personal costs of a life of violence. The films also share a visually striking, atmospheric style.

Fact: The film is based on the novel by Patrick deWitt, who also wrote the screenplay. The film stars John C. Reilly and Joaquin Phoenix as the titular brothers, marking their first on-screen reunion since 'Walk the Line'. The film was a co-production between the United States and several European countries, reflecting its international appeal.

Description: 'Hostiles' shares with 'True Grit' a focus on a journey through dangerous territory, as well as themes of redemption, forgiveness, and the cost of violence. Both films feature a hardened protagonist who is forced to confront their prejudices and beliefs, and both emphasize the moral complexities of the Old West. The films also share a somber, reflective tone.

Fact: The film was inspired by a manuscript written by the late Donald E. Stewart, which was discovered by his son. Christian Bale, who stars in the film, underwent a significant physical transformation for the role, losing weight and learning to ride horses. The film's director, Scott Cooper, is known for his focus on character-driven dramas.