If you loved the gritty, outlaw spirit of The Spikes Gang (1974), you're in for a treat. This article explores 10 similar movies and shows that capture the same raw energy, rebellious characters, and Wild West chaos. Whether you're a fan of classic Westerns or modern tales of antiheroes, these picks will keep you on the edge of your seat.

The Magnificent Seven (1960)
Description: A story of seven gunmen hired to protect a village from bandits, highlighting themes of sacrifice and heroism.
Fact: The film is a Western adaptation of Akira Kurosawa's 'Seven Samurai.' Its iconic score by Elmer Bernstein is still widely recognized today.


The Professionals (1966)
Description: A action-packed Western about a group of mercenaries on a dangerous mission, featuring themes of honor and betrayal.
Fact: The film was nominated for three Academy Awards. It was based on the novel 'A Mule for the Marquesa' by Frank O'Rourke.


Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid (1969)
Description: A blend of adventure and drama focusing on the camaraderie and exploits of two charismatic outlaws, with a mix of humor and poignant moments.
Fact: The movie was a major box office success and won four Academy Awards. The famous jump scene was filmed in Mexico, not the actual location of the event.


True Grit (1969)
Description: A classic Western about a determined young girl seeking justice with the help of a grizzled lawman, blending adventure with deep character studies.
Fact: John Wayne won his only Academy Award for his role in this film. The novel it's based on was written by Charles Portis.


The Wild Bunch (1969)
Description: A gritty Western that explores themes of loyalty and survival among outlaws, featuring intense action sequences and a morally ambiguous narrative.
Fact: The film was controversial for its graphic violence, which was groundbreaking at the time. It was also one of the first Westerns to depict the end of the Old West era.


High Plains Drifter (1973)
Description: A mysterious stranger arrives in a town to exact revenge, blending supernatural elements with traditional Western tropes.
Fact: The film was both directed by and starred Clint Eastwood. It was shot in sequence, which is unusual for film productions.


The Missouri Breaks (1976)
Description: A unique Western that blends dark humor with violent confrontations, focusing on the clash between a rancher and a hired assassin.
Fact: The film was a box office disappointment but has since gained a cult following. It features an eccentric performance by Marlon Brando.


The Outlaw Josey Wales (1976)
Description: A tale of revenge and redemption, following a man who becomes an outlaw after his family is murdered, with a strong emphasis on personal justice.
Fact: The film was initially criticized for its violence but later gained acclaim for its complex characters and storytelling. It was based on a novel by Forrest Carter.


The Shootist (1976)
Description: A poignant story about an aging gunslinger facing his mortality, with a focus on legacy and the end of an era.
Fact: This was John Wayne's final film role. The screenplay was based on a novel by Glendon Swarthout.


The Long Riders (1980)
Description: A retelling of the Jesse James gang's exploits, emphasizing brotherhood and the consequences of a life of crime.
Fact: The film features real-life brothers playing the James-Younger gang members. It was praised for its authentic period detail.
