Los Angeles, known for its glitz and glamour, has also been the backdrop for some intriguing Western films. This collection showcases the unique blend of the Old West with the modern cityscape, offering a fresh perspective on the genre. From tales of outlaws to lawmen, these films provide a fascinating look at how the spirit of the West intertwines with the urban jungle of L.A.

The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance (1962)
Description: This classic Western, while set in a fictional town, has scenes shot in Los Angeles, reflecting the city's role in the film industry and its connection to the Western genre.
Fact: The film features John Wayne and James Stewart in iconic roles, directed by John Ford.


The Wild Bunch (1969)
Description: Sam Peckinpah's violent and groundbreaking Western includes scenes shot in Los Angeles, capturing the end of an era for outlaws as the modern world encroaches.
Fact: The film was controversial for its graphic violence, which was ahead of its time.


The Ballad of Cable Hogue (1970)
Description: Sam Peckinpah's lesser-known Western gem features a man left to die in the desert who finds water and builds a town around it. While not set entirely in Los Angeles, the film's themes of survival and entrepreneurship resonate with the city's history.
Fact: The film was shot in the Nevada desert, but its themes of urban development and the American Dream are reminiscent of Los Angeles' growth.


The Cowboys (1972)
Description: While primarily set in Montana, this film includes scenes shot in Los Angeles, showcasing the city's versatility as a filming location for Westerns.
Fact: John Wayne stars in one of his later roles, and the film features a young Robert Carradine in his debut.


The Life and Times of Judge Roy Bean (1972)
Description: This quirky Western comedy-drama follows the life of Judge Roy Bean, a self-appointed judge in the Wild West, who brings his own brand of justice to a town near Los Angeles. It's a blend of humor, drama, and the spirit of the West.
Fact: The film was directed by John Huston, and Paul Newman plays the titular character with his characteristic charm.


The Missouri Breaks (1976)
Description: While not exclusively set in Los Angeles, this film features a cattle rustler and a hired gun whose paths cross in the West, with scenes shot in the Los Angeles area. It's a character-driven Western with a unique dynamic between Jack Nicholson and Marlon Brando.
Fact: This was one of the few films where Marlon Brando and Jack Nicholson shared the screen.


The Outlaw Josey Wales (1976)
Description: Although not set in Los Angeles, this film's themes of revenge, survival, and the clash between old and new ways resonate with the city's history of transformation. It includes scenes shot in California.
Fact: The film was directed by and stars Clint Eastwood, who also co-wrote the screenplay.


The Long Riders (1980)
Description: This film tells the story of the James-Younger Gang, notorious outlaws in the Wild West, with a unique twist: real-life brothers play the gang members. Set in various locations, including Los Angeles, it captures the essence of the era with its gritty realism.
Fact: The film features actual brothers portraying the James-Younger Gang, including the Carradine, Keach, and Quaid brothers.


The Great Northfield Minnesota Raid (1972)
Description: This film, while primarily about the James-Younger Gang's failed bank robbery, includes scenes set in Los Angeles, showcasing the gang's journey and the city's role in their downfall.
Fact: The film was directed by Philip Kaufman, who later directed "The Right Stuff."


The Last Sunset (1961)
Description: This film, starring Kirk Douglas and Rock Hudson, involves a cattle drive from Mexico to Los Angeles, blending Western elements with a love triangle and themes of redemption.
Fact: The film was directed by Robert Aldrich, known for his work in various genres, including Westerns.
