The vast, untamed landscapes of the American West have long been a staple in cinema, but there's something uniquely captivating about Westerns set by lakes. These films not only showcase the rugged beauty of nature but also use water as a metaphor for life, change, and the passage of time. Here's a curated list of 10 Western films where lakes play a pivotal role, offering viewers a blend of action, drama, and the serene beauty of the wilderness.
The Big Sky (1952)
Description: This Howard Hawks classic follows a group of fur trappers navigating the Missouri River, with the serene yet treacherous lakes along their journey playing a crucial role in their adventures.
Fact: The film was shot on location in Montana, capturing the real beauty of the American wilderness. Kirk Douglas delivers one of his most memorable performances.
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The Searchers (1956)
Description: John Ford's masterpiece includes scenes by the Comanche Lake, where the protagonist, Ethan Edwards, reflects on his quest and the harsh realities of the frontier.
Fact: The film was shot in Monument Valley, Utah, a location Ford used in many of his Westerns.
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The Ballad of Cable Hogue (1970)
Description: Sam Peckinpah's unique Western features a man who finds water in the desert, turning it into a lake, which becomes the setting for his redemption and love story.
Fact: The film was shot in the Nevada desert, and Peckinpah himself appears in a cameo.
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The Cowboys (1972)
Description: John Wayne leads a group of young boys on a cattle drive, with several key scenes set by a lake, symbolizing their growth and the challenges they face.
Fact: This was one of Wayne's last films, and it features a young Robert Carradine in his debut role.
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Jeremiah Johnson (1972)
Description: Robert Redford stars as a mountain man who finds solace by a lake in the Rockies, making it a central part of his journey into solitude and self-discovery.
Fact: The film was shot in Utah, and the lake scenes were filmed at Redfish Lake in Idaho.
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The Missouri Breaks (1976)
Description: This film, starring Marlon Brando and Jack Nicholson, features a chase along the Missouri River, with several scenes set by lakes, highlighting the natural beauty of the area.
Fact: The film was directed by Arthur Penn, known for his work on "Bonnie and Clyde."
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The Outlaw Josey Wales (1976)
Description: Clint Eastwood's character finds peace by a lake, reflecting on his past and future, making it a poignant setting in this tale of revenge and redemption.
Fact: The film was directed by Eastwood himself, showcasing his versatility behind the camera.
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The Long Riders (1980)
Description: This film about the James-Younger Gang features several scenes by lakes, symbolizing the calm before the storm of their criminal activities.
Fact: Real-life brothers played the brothers in the gang, adding authenticity to the family dynamics.
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The Man from Snowy River (1982)
Description: While not strictly a Western, this Australian film captures the spirit of the genre with its story of a young man's journey through the rugged Snowy Mountains, including scenes by the picturesque lake.
Fact: The film is based on the poem by A.B. "Banjo" Paterson, and its sequel was released in
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The Great Northfield Minnesota Raid (1972)
Description: This film about the infamous bank robbery includes scenes by the lake, where the gang plans their heist, showcasing the tranquility before the chaos.
Fact: The film was directed by Philip Kaufman, who later directed "The Right Stuff."
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