- The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance (1962)
- The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly (1966)
- The Cowboys (1972)
- The Apple Dumpling Gang (1975)
- The Outlaw Josey Wales (1976)
- The Great Train Robbery (1903)
- The Magnificent Seven Deadly Sins (1971)
- The Legend of Frenchie King (1971)
- The Villain (1979)
- The Ballad of Buster Scruggs (2018)
The Wild West has always been a place of larger-than-life characters and epic tales, but what happens when the heroes are not quite as tall as their legends? This curated list dives into the niche but fascinating subgenre of Western films that feature dwarves in leading roles. These movies offer a fresh perspective on the classic Western formula, blending humor, heart, and the rugged spirit of the frontier. Whether it's through comedy, drama, or action, these films prove that even the smallest among us can have the biggest adventures.

The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance (1962)
Description: While not central to the plot, a dwarf character appears in a saloon scene, adding to the film's rich tapestry of characters.
Fact: This John Ford classic is often cited for its exploration of the myth versus reality in the West.


The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly (1966)
Description: Although not the main focus, the film includes a memorable scene with a dwarf character, adding to the film's eclectic cast.
Fact: Sergio Leone's masterpiece was originally released in Italy as "Il buono, il brutto, il cattivo."


The Cowboys (1972)
Description: A dwarf character named "Jab" is part of the group of boys who join John Wayne on a cattle drive, adding to the film's diverse cast.
Fact: This was one of John Wayne's last major roles before his death in


The Apple Dumpling Gang (1975)
Description: This family-friendly Western comedy features a dwarf character as part of the gang, bringing humor and heart to the story.
Fact: The film was Disney's first foray into Western comedy and spawned a sequel.


The Outlaw Josey Wales (1976)
Description: A dwarf character named "Lone Watie" provides comic relief and companionship to the titular character in this Clint Eastwood Western.
Fact: The film was directed by Eastwood himself and is based on the novel "Gone to Texas" by Forrest Carter.


The Great Train Robbery (1903)
Description: While not a traditional Western, this silent film includes a scene with a dwarf character, making it one of the earliest examples of dwarves in cinema.
Fact: This film is considered one of the first narrative films, and its influence on the Western genre is profound.


The Magnificent Seven Deadly Sins (1971)
Description: In the segment "Avarice," a dwarf character plays a pivotal role in a comedic take on greed in the Wild West.
Fact: This anthology film features seven different directors, each tackling one of the seven deadly sins.


The Legend of Frenchie King (1971)
Description: This French Western comedy features a gang of female outlaws, including a dwarf character, making it a unique entry in the genre.
Fact: The film stars Brigitte Bardot and Claudia Cardinale, two of the biggest stars of the time.


The Villain (1979)
Description: This comedic Western features a band of outlaws, including a dwarf named "Nervous Elk," who adds a unique twist to the classic good vs. evil narrative.
Fact: The film was directed by Hal Needham, who also directed "Smokey and the Bandit," and features a cameo by Foster Brooks as a drunken sheriff.


The Ballad of Buster Scruggs (2018)
Description: In the segment "Meal Ticket," a dwarf character named Harrison plays a key role in a dark tale of survival in the West.
Fact: This Coen Brothers' anthology film was nominated for three Academy Awards.
