- The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance (1962)
- The Sons of Katie Elder (1965)
- The Ballad of Cable Hogue (1970)
- The Cowboys (1972)
- The Life and Times of Judge Roy Bean (1972)
- The Missouri Breaks (1976)
- The Outlaw Josey Wales (1976)
- The Shootist (1976)
- The Long Riders (1980)
- The Great Northfield Minnesota Raid (1972)
The Wild West, with its lawlessness and rugged landscapes, often serves as a backdrop for tales of adventure, romance, and survival. However, a less explored facet of this genre is the portrayal of showgirls, whose stories intertwine with the rough-and-tumble world of cowboys and outlaws. This curated list of 10 western films delves into the lives of these women, offering a unique perspective on the era. These films not only entertain but also provide a deeper understanding of the roles women played in the frontier, showcasing their resilience, ambition, and the challenges they faced in a male-dominated society.
The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance (1962)
Description: The film includes a scene where a showgirl performs in a saloon, adding a touch of the era's entertainment to the story of law and order in the West.
Fact: This film is often cited for its exploration of the myth versus reality of the West.
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The Sons of Katie Elder (1965)
Description: Showgirls are part of the background in this tale of family and revenge, providing a glimpse into the social life of the time.
Fact: The film was one of the last collaborations between John Wayne and director Henry Hathaway.
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The Ballad of Cable Hogue (1970)
Description: This film features a showgirl named Hildy, who becomes romantically involved with the protagonist, Cable Hogue, highlighting the intersection of the wild west and the world of entertainment.
Fact: The film was directed by Sam Peckinpah, known for his gritty westerns, and it's one of his more light-hearted works.
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The Cowboys (1972)
Description: While not central to the plot, a showgirl character appears in a saloon scene, offering a brief respite from the film's more serious themes.
Fact: This was one of John Wayne's later films, showcasing his versatility in roles.
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The Life and Times of Judge Roy Bean (1972)
Description: This film features several showgirls, including one played by Ava Gardner, who adds a layer of sophistication to the rough justice meted out by Judge Roy Bean.
Fact: The film was based on the real-life figure of Judge Roy Bean, known as "The Law West of the Pecos."
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The Missouri Breaks (1976)
Description: Although primarily a story of revenge, the film includes a scene where a showgirl performs, providing a moment of levity in an otherwise intense narrative.
Fact: This was the only film where Marlon Brando and Jack Nicholson co-starred.
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The Outlaw Josey Wales (1976)
Description: While not primarily about showgirls, the film includes a scene where Josey Wales encounters a group of entertainers, including a showgirl, in a saloon, adding a touch of glamour to the gritty narrative.
Fact: Clint Eastwood not only starred in but also directed this film, which became one of his most iconic roles.
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The Shootist (1976)
Description: In this John Wayne's final film, a showgirl character interacts with the aging gunfighter, adding a touch of nostalgia to the story.
Fact: The film was Wayne's last before his death, and it was a fitting tribute to his career.
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The Long Riders (1980)
Description: This film about the James-Younger Gang includes scenes with showgirls, offering a brief look at the entertainment available in frontier towns.
Fact: The film cast real-life brothers to play the gang members, adding authenticity to the portrayal.
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The Great Northfield Minnesota Raid (1972)
Description: While focusing on the James-Younger Gang, the film includes scenes in saloons where showgirls perform, providing a glimpse into the entertainment of the time.
Fact: The movie was one of the first to portray the James-Younger Gang in a less romanticized light.
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