10 Movies and Shows Like A Fistful of Dollars (1964)

Description: A western about a group of hired guns protecting a village, it shares the theme of morally ambiguous heroes. The ensemble cast and action sequences are reminiscent of Leone's work.

Fact: The film is a remake of Akira Kurosawa's 'Seven Samurai.' Yul Brynner was instrumental in getting the film made. The score by Elmer Bernstein is one of the most recognizable in cinema.

Description: This film is the second installment in Sergio Leone's 'Dollars Trilogy,' following 'A Fistful of Dollars.' It shares the same director, spaghetti western genre, and themes of revenge and moral ambiguity. The visual style, including extreme close-ups and long silences, is also similar.

Fact: Clint Eastwood reprises his role as the 'Man with No Name,' though his character is referred to as Monco in this film. The film's score, composed by Ennio Morricone, is iconic and heavily features in the trilogy. Lee Van Cleef joins the cast as Colonel Mortimer, adding a new dynamic to the story.

Description: The final film in Leone's 'Dollars Trilogy,' it continues the themes of greed, survival, and moral ambiguity. The cinematography and use of silence to build tension are hallmarks of Leone's style, similar to 'A Fistful of Dollars.'

Fact: The film's climactic three-way duel is one of the most famous scenes in cinema history. Ennio Morricone's score, particularly 'The Ecstasy of Gold,' is legendary. The film was shot in Spain, like its predecessors, to save costs.

Description: This spaghetti western shares the gritty, violent tone and anti-hero protagonist of 'A Fistful of Dollars.' The themes of revenge and survival in a lawless land are central to both films.

Fact: The film spawned numerous unofficial sequels and imitations. Franco Nero's portrayal of Django became iconic. The film was banned in several countries due to its extreme violence.

Description: Another Leone masterpiece, this film expands on the themes of the Old West's demise and features his signature visual style. The pacing, use of close-ups, and operatic storytelling are reminiscent of 'A Fistful of Dollars.'

Fact: Henry Fonda was cast against type as the villain, Frank. The film was initially a commercial failure but is now considered a classic. Ennio Morricone composed the score before filming began, a unique approach at the time.

Description: This classic western shares the themes of justice and revenge. The rugged, unforgiving landscape and focus on a determined protagonist are similar to Leone's films.

Fact: John Wayne won his only Academy Award for his role as Rooster Cogburn. The film was remade in 2010 by the Coen Brothers. The novel it's based on is written from the perspective of a young girl.

Description: This violent, revisionist western shares the themes of outlaws facing a changing world. The graphic violence and moral ambiguity are reminiscent of Leone's work.

Fact: The film was controversial for its extreme violence. Director Sam Peckinpah used innovative slow-motion techniques. The film's themes of loyalty and honor among thieves are central to its story.

Description: Directed by and starring Clint Eastwood, this film has a similar mysterious stranger protagonist and themes of revenge. The surreal, almost supernatural tone sets it apart but retains the Leone influence.

Fact: Eastwood was heavily influenced by Leone's style. The film was shot in sequence, a rarity in Hollywood. The town in the film was painted red for the climax, symbolizing hell.

Description: Another Eastwood-directed western, it features a protagonist seeking revenge, similar to 'A Fistful of Dollars.' The film's gritty realism and focus on character are Leone-esque.

Fact: Eastwood took over directing duties after the original director was fired. The film was a commercial and critical success. The character of Josey Wales is one of Eastwood's most iconic roles.

Description: This deconstruction of the western genre, directed by Eastwood, shares the moral complexity and violence of 'A Fistful of Dollars.' The film questions the myths of the Old West, much like Leone's work.

Fact: Eastwood waited years to make the film, feeling he needed to be old enough for the role. The film won four Academy Awards, including Best Picture. Gene Hackman's performance as Little Bill was widely praised.