The Wild West has been a popular setting for countless films, but few explore the unique perspective of dwarfs in this rugged landscape. This curated list brings together ten western films where dwarfs play pivotal roles, offering a fresh take on the genre. These films not only entertain but also provide insight into the diverse casting choices in cinema, showcasing the talent and versatility of actors of smaller stature in a genre typically dominated by larger-than-life characters.

The Magnificent Seven (1960)
Description: While not a central character, the film includes a dwarf in the group of outlaws, providing an interesting dynamic to the ensemble cast.
Fact: The film was remade in 2016, but the original remains a classic in the western genre.


The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance (1962)
Description: A dwarf character appears briefly in this John Ford classic, adding to the diverse townsfolk of Shinbone.
Fact: The film is often cited for its exploration of the myth versus reality in the American West.


The Wild Bunch (1969)
Description: A dwarf is part of the gang in this gritty, revisionist western, contributing to the film's portrayal of a group of aging outlaws.
Fact: The film was controversial for its graphic violence, which was quite progressive for its time.


The Outlaw Josey Wales (1976)
Description: A dwarf character is part of the group that joins Josey Wales, contributing to the film's portrayal of a diverse band of outcasts.
Fact: Clint Eastwood both directed and starred in this film, which became one of his signature roles.


The Quick and the Dead (1995)
Description: A dwarf character adds to the eclectic mix of gunfighters in this Sam Raimi-directed western, bringing humor and tension to the duels.
Fact: The film was Sharon Stone's first venture into directing, although she did not direct this film.


The Good, the Bad, the Weird (2008)
Description: While not a traditional western, this Korean film set in the 1930s Manchuria has a dwarf character who plays a crucial part in the treasure hunt, blending action, comedy, and western elements.
Fact: The film was inspired by Sergio Leone's spaghetti westerns and has been praised for its unique take on the genre.


The Great Train Robbery (1903)
Description: This silent film, one of the earliest westerns, includes a scene with a dwarf, showcasing the early inclusion of diverse characters in cinema.
Fact: It was one of the first films to use cross-cutting, a technique to show simultaneous action.


The Legend of Frenchie King (1971)
Description: Although primarily a French comedy, this film features a dwarf character who helps the female outlaws in their quest for oil, adding a unique twist to the western setting.
Fact: The film was one of the highest-grossing French films of the year it was released.


The Villain (1979)
Description: In this comedic western, a dwarf character named Nervous Elk plays a significant role in the plot, adding humor and depth to the film's narrative.
Fact: The film features a cameo by the legendary stuntman Yakima Canutt, known for his work in classic westerns.


The Ballad of Buster Scruggs (2018)
Description: This anthology film by the Coen Brothers includes a segment where a dwarf, played by Brendan Gleeson, is part of a traveling show, bringing a different perspective to the Old West.
Fact: The film was nominated for three Academy Awards, including Best Adapted Screenplay.
