This is a companion to the recent thread "Outstanding Adventure films of the Golden Age not on DVD".
During Hollywood's golden age, it seemed like more than half the films made were westerns. Although quite a number of westerns have been released on DVD, the western film still seems to be vastly underrepresented on DVD. There continue to be more outstanding western films unreleased on DVD than the films of any other genre. The studios have done a good job of releasing on DVD most of the outstanding western films made after 1960, however there are scores of outstanding western films made during the period 1929-1960 which have been so far neglected. This is a shame, because it was during that period that western filmaking was at its peak.
The following is a chronological list of some of the outstanding western films which the major studios have so far failed to release in region 1 on DVD (in parenthesis after each film title is the name of the studio that made the film and after that the name of the company who it is believed holds the current rights to release the film on DVD if different from the studio that made the film).
1929 The Virginian (Paramount) Based on Owen Wister's novel, which is arguably the finest piece of writing in the western genre. The first outstanding sound western film. One of Gary Cooper's greatest early roles, and Walter Huston is memorable as the heavy. Directed by Victor Fleming who later directed, among other films, Gone With the Wind and The Wizard of Oz. It has some of the typical technical faults of many early sound films, however this is more than offset by the authentic feel the film projects.
1932 Law and Order (Universal) Based on the novel "Saint Johnson" by the underrated William R. Burnett (who also wrote Little Caesar, High Sierra, The Asphalt Jungle, etc.) This is the granddaddy of all the Wyatt Earp/Doc Holliday films. Although inspired by the activities of Wyatt Earp and Doc Holiday in Tombstone they are called by different names. The film is over 70 year old, however it holds up very well in comparison with later versions. No doubt this is in large part due to the great performance of Walter Huston, in one of his best roles. Harry Carey is also excellent. Has never been released on video in any format.
1934 Viva Villa (MGM/Warners) Terrific biopic of the Mexican bandit Pancho Villa, with Wallace Beery giving perhaps the best performance of his career. Parts of the film were directed by Howard Hawks.
1935 The Arizonian (RKO/Warners) Another very good western inspired by the activiites of Wyatt Earp and Doc Holiday in Tombstone, although once again different names are used. One of Richard Dix's best performances, and good supporting performances by Preston Foster and Louis Calhern. Written by Dudley Nichols who later wrote, among other things, the screenplay to "Stagecoach". Has never been released on video in any format.
The Call of the Wild (Fox) Directed by William Wellman. This excellent film is one of Clark Gable's best movies. Frequently classified as either an adventure film or a western. Has never been released on video in any format.
1936 The Last Outlaw (RKO/Warners) A very good neglected western based on an orginal story co-written by John Ford. One of Harry Carey's most engaging performances. Excellent support fron Hoot Gibson, Tom Tyler and Henry Walthall. Released on VHS many years ago by a company called UAV, with a print indicating the film came from the UCLA Archives. One might assume that Warners would have the DVD rights since it is a RKO film, however since another company released it on VHS, there is doubt about who holds the rights to this film.
The Robin Hood of El Dorado (MGM/Warners) Another outstanding biopic of a bandit, in this case Joaquin Murietta. Based on the book by the underrated Walter Noble Burns who also wrote Tombstone and the Saga of Billy the Kid. Excellent lead performance by Warner Baxter, who made a speciality of such roles, and directed by William Wellman. Film was probably ahead of its time. Has never been released on video in any format.
1938 The Law West of Tombstone (RKO/Warners) Extremely likeable western features one of Harry Carey's best performances as a character similar in style to Judge Roy Bean. Good supporting performance by Tim Holt.
1939 Frontier Marshal (Fox) Still another good Wyatt Earp/Doc Holiday inspired western film, and perhaps the first one in which they were called by their real names. Randolph Scott plays Earp in this one. Has never released on video in any format.
Jesse James (Fox) Outstanding technicolor western directed by Henry King, with Tyrone Power as Jesse James and Henry Fonda as Frank James, and a tremendous supporting cast. A great slice of Americana, which is typical of many of Henry King's films. Hard to believe that Fox has so far failed to release this film on DVD.
Union Pacific (Paramount/Univesal Excellent epic western starring Joel McCrea and Barbara Stanwyck. The good news is that Universal has announced this film will be released in June as part of the Cecil B. DeMille collection.
1940 Northwest Passage (MGM/Warners) One of the all time great adventure films. Frequently considered part of the western genre due to its early American frontier setting. Arguably King Vidor's greatest sound film.
Santa Fe Trail (Warners) Entertaining Errol Flynn film, which features one of Ronald Reagan's best roles. Has had some public domain type DVD releases, but it is in need of a definitive DVD release from Warners.
Twenty Mule Team (MGM/Warners) Good western re-teams Wallace Beery and Leo Carillo who had worked together so effectively in "Viva Villa", and who again work well together in this film. Strong supporting cast includes Anne Baxter and Wallace Beery's nephew Noah Beery, Jr. (of Rockford Files fame). There are some very memorable scenes in Death Valley, especially the long stunningly photographed chase scene.
1941 The Shepherd of the Hills (Paramount/Universal) Very good piece of Americana directed by Henry Hathaway, and based on a once very famous novel by Harold Bell Wright. Great teaming of John Wayne and Harry Carey. The good news is that Universal has announced the film is being released on DVD in a couple of months as part of a new John Wayne collection. The collection would be worth purchasing just for this film alone.
Western Union (Fox) Great epic western in technicolor directed by Fritz Lang. Starring Randolph Scott, Robert Young, Dean Jagger, and a host of top notch character actors. Scott gives one of the most memorable performances of his career. Arguably even better than the more famous "Union Pacific".
1945 San Antonio (Warners) Entertaining Errol Flynn film, with the wonderful Alexis Smith an added plus.
1946 Canyon Passage (Universal) This underrated masterpiece is one of the all time great westerns. A tremendous box office hit at the time of its release. This film, along with "My Darling Clementine", was instrumental in ushering in the golden age of "A" western films. Directed by the versatile Jacques Tourneur (who also directed the early Val Lewton films, Out of the Past, Night of the Demon, etc.). Dana Andrews gives one of his greatest performances, and Susan Hayward, as usual, is also outstanding. The supporting performances from the likes of Ward Bond, Lloyd Bridges, Brian Donlevy, Andy Devine, etc are also uniformly excellent. The music and songs contributed by Hoagy Carmichael are among the best ever contributed to a western film, and Hoagy also does a nice job in a key supporting role. The beautiful lush technicolor would seem to make it a natural for DVD. A strong case could be make that, along with "Destry Rides Again", this was the greatest western ever produced by Universal. Hard to understand why Univesal has so far failed to release this film on DVD.
In Old Sacramento (Republic/Paramount) The first in a string of top notch A westerns made by William Elliott at Republic
Smoky (Fox) Excellent horse ranch film directed by Henry King's brother Louis King, who made a speciality of this kind of film. One of Fred MacMurray's best films, with an outstanding cast.
1947 Angel and the Badman (Republic/Paramount) Classic John Wayne film has had several public domain DVD releases, however a definitive first rate studio release is needed.
Gunfighters (Columbia/Sony) Good Randolph Scott western. The success of this film led him to thereafter specialize in westerns.
Ramrod (UA-Paramount) Great atmospheric western starring Joel McCrea. Based on a novel by Luke Short, who was to the western film of that era, what Raymond Chandler was to the film noir/detective film. The first in a string of outstanding westerns based on Luke Short's writings.
Unconquered (Paramount/Universal) Entertaining Cecil B. DeMille early Americana frontier epic starring Gary Cooper. Could be classified as an adventure film or a western.
Wyoming (Republic/Paramount) Another good William Elliott western with strong supporting cast.
1948 Blood On the Moon (RKO/Warners) Another great atmospheric western based on a novel by Luke Short. Arguably, Robert Mitchum's best western film, and except for the John Ford westerns, the best western ever produced by RKO.
Coroner Creek (Columbia/Sony) Excellent revenge western starring Randolph Scott based on a novel by Luke Short. One of Scott's best films. Very hard edged and violent film for its era.
Fort Apache (RK0/Warners) Great John Wayne/John Ford western based on a short story by James Warner Bellah. The first installment in Ford's cavalry trilogy, which were all based on Bellah's writings. The good news is that Warners is releasing this film on DVD in June as part of the John Wayne/John Ford collection.
The Gallant Legion (Republic/Paramount) Good Texas Ranger film starring, among others, William Elliott, Jack Holt, Bruce Cabot, and Andy Devine.
Old Los Angeles (Republic/Parmount) Highly entertaining William Elliott film directed with flair by Joseph Kane, who was the mainstay of the Republic westerns. John Carroll, as a villain, gives one of the most memorable performances of his career. The supporting cast is stellar.
Panhandle (Allied Artists/Warners) Great low budget "A" western starring Rod Cameron. Co-written by Blake Edwards, who also has a key co-starring role. Has never been released on video in any format, and for some unknown reason is never shown on television. The best western ever produced at Allied Artists or Monogram. Film needs to be made available to the public in at least some format.
The Plunderers (Republic/Paramount) One of Republic's better westerns.
Rachel and the Stranger (RKO-Warners) A nice slice of Americana with a terrific cast including Loretta Young, William Holden and Robert Mitchum.
Relentless (Columbia/Sony) Excellent western is one of Robert Young's best films.
The Return of the Badmen (RKO/Warners) Highly enjoyable western entertainment. The bad guys include a virtual who's who of famous outlaws. Robert Ryan is memorable as the main heavy, playing a character called the Sundance Kid, and Gabby Hayes is hilarious as usual. If you can get past the historical ludicrousness of all the name dropping it's a really fun film.
Roughshod (RKO/Warners) Thanks to Peter Fitzgerald for giving a reminder of this gem. This sleeper is one of the better RKO westerns, with Robert Sterling having probably the best role of his career. Good support from Claude Jarman, of "The Yearling" fame, John Ireland (good as usual), and a surrey full of dance hall girls lead by the always interesting Gloria Grahame.
Station West (RKO/Warners) Still another top notch western based on a Luke Short novel. Has a film noir feel, with very strong performances by Dick Powell and Jane Greer of "Out of the Past" fame.
3 Godfathers (MGM/Warners) Good news it that Warners has announced film will be released in June as part of the John Wayne/John Ford collection.
Yellow Sky (Fox) Along with "The Ox Bow Incident", director William Wellman's best western. The good news is that Fox has announced it is releasing the film on DVD in May.
1949 Ambush (MGM/Warners) Good cavalry film starring Robert Taylor. Based on a novel by Luke Short.
Brimstone (Republic/Paramount) Solid Republic Western with a stellar cast. Walter Brennan reprises the villainous partriarch he played in "My Darling Clementine".
Colorado Territory (Warners) Excellent Joel McCrea western directed by action master Raoul Walsh. It is a very successful reworking, in a western setting, of Walsh's earlier gangster film "High Sierra". A classic.
The Doolins of Oklahoma (Columbia/Sony) Very entertaining film about the Bill Doolin outlaw gang, with a top notch cast.
Hellfire (Republic/Paramount) Top notch western which may be William Elliott's best film. Done as a homage to William S. Hart. A very unique western film written by the McGowan brothers.
The Savage Horde (Republic/Paramount) Excellent William Elliott western with outstanding supporting cast.
South of St. Louis (Warners/Paramount) Top notch Joel McCrea western.
The Walking Hills (Columbia/Sony) Part of the cycle of goldhunting films that began with "The Treasure of the Sierra Madre" (1948), and which also includes "Lust For Gold" (1949). An excllent cast with Randolph Scott, Ella Raines, John Ireland, Arthur Kennedy, and Edgar Buchanan. The presence and singing of bluesy folk singer, Josh White, is an added plus. Written by Alan LeMay, who also wrote, among other things, "The Searchers" and "The Unforgiven". Perhaps, the best example of the early work of director John Sturges.
1950 Broken Arrow (Fox) Classic landmark western starring Jimmy Stewart, and directed by Delmer Daves. It is unbelievable that Fox has not yet released this film on DVD in region 1.
Devil's Doorway (MGM/Warners) Good Anthony Mann directed western starring Robert Taylor. Made in the spirit of Broken Arrow, though a darker film.
The Gunfighter (Fox) One of the all time great westerns. Directed by Henry King with Gregory Peck at his best. The faliure of Fox to release this film on DVD in region 1 is inexplicable.
Montana (Warners) Entertaining Errol Flynn western, again with the added plus of Alexis Smith.
Rocky Mountain (Warners) Very good Errol Flynn western directed by the co-director of Robin Hood, William Keighley. Although his earlier westerns had much more lavish budgets, this is arguably Flynn's second best western after "They Died With Their Boots On".
Short Grass (Allied Artists/Warners) Very good low budget "A" western starring Rod Cameron and Johnny Mack Brown.
The Showdown (Republic/Paramount) Another excellent William Elliott western written by the McGowan brothers, with strong supporting cast including Walter Brennan and Marie Windsor.
Singing Guns (Republic/Paramount) Outstanding offbeat western. Usually overlooked, probably because the leading role of the outlaw is played by singer/bandleader, Vaughan Monroe. However, it's an unexpected gem. This may in large part be due to the uniqueness of the writing by the McGowan brothers, who also wrote "Hellfire" and "The Showdown". Monroe does sing a few songs, however that's no detriment, since he was one of the great American singers and, except for one instance, the songs seem to flow seamlessly into the film. There are also excellent supporting performances from Ella Raines, Ward Bond, and Walter Brennan.
Stars In My Crown (MGM/Warners) Excellent Joel Mcrea film directed by Jacques Tourneur. It is usually classified as a western, though it probably could be more accurately classified as Americana.
Wagon Master (RKO/Warners) Outstanding John Ford western. Ben Johnson and Ward Bond at their best. The songs written by Stan Jones and performed by the Sons of the Pioneers greatly enhance the film.
1951 Best of the Badmen (RKO/Warners) Very entertaining western starring Robert Ryan.
Across the Wide Missouri (MGM/Warners) Directed by William Wellman, this memorable western adventure is arguably Clark Gable's best post-war MGM film.
Distant Drums (Warners/Paramount) Very good western adventure film directed by Raoul Walsh and starring Gary Cooper. A reworking by Walsh, in a western setting, of his earlier war film "Objective Burma". Was released on DVD a few years ago by Lions Gate, however it is in need of a new quality DVD release, which hopefully Paramount can provide.
Fort Defiance (UA/Sony) An overlooked gem. Ben Johnson stands out in what is probably his second best starring role, after his part in "Wagon Master". Also, good performances from Peter Graves and Dane Clark.
I'd Climb the Highest Mountain (Fox) This rural 19th century drama is a magnificent piece of Americana. A fine example of the narrative filmaking prowess of one of the most underrated directors, Henry King. From the time of his silent classic, "Tol'able David" (1921), King was known as having a special flair for making movies about rural America, and this movie is probably his best in this vein. William Lundigan gives what is, more than likely, the best performance of his career, and Susan Hayward is also outstanding. This movie is not technically a western since it takes place in rural Georgia, however it is similar in many respects to the film "Stars In My Crown", which is usually classified as a western.
Rawhide (Fox) Very good taut western suspense film starring Tyrone Power and Susan Hayward, and directed by the underrated Henry Hathaway.
Vengeance Valley (MGM/Warners) Good ranchland western based on another novel by Luke Short. This was Burt Lancaster's first western, and Robert Walker plays the villain. Film has been presented on DVD in a fairly decent public domain release, however a definitive release from Warners would be welcome.
1952 The Big Sky (RKO/Warners) Outstanding adventure western directed by Howard Hawks and starring Kirk Douglas. Memorable supporting performance by Arthur Hunnicutt, who also narrates the film.
Bugles In the Afternoon (Warners/Paramount) Very entertaining cavalry western starring Ray Milland
The Iron Mistress (Warners) Very entertaining saga of Jim Bowie in his pre-Alamo days. One of Alan Ladd's better roles.
The Lusty Men (RKO/Warners) Along with "Junior Bonner", this is the all time best rodeo themed movie. Robert Mithcum gives one of his greatest performances in this Nicholas Ray directed film.
Rancho Notorious (RKO/Warners) Good offbeat western directed by Firtz Lang. One of Marlene Dietrich's best film roles.
Ride the Man Down (Republic/Paramount) Next to "Rio Grande", arguably the greatest western ever produced by Republic Studios, which specialized in westerns. Based on one of Luke Short's best novels.
Springfield Rifle (Warners) Good Gary Cooper western. Part of a cycle of western films based around famous firearms which began with Winchester 73 in 1950.
1953 The Charge At Feather River (Warners) This film with its "guardhouse brigade" perhaps served as the protype for "The Dirty Dozen". Was a big box office hit in its day.
Escape From Fort Bravo (MGM/Warners) The first of the long series of outstanding big budget action films directed by John Sturges (Bad Day at Black Rock, Gunfight at the O. K. Coral, The Law and Jake Wade The Magnificent Seven, The Great Escape, Hour of the Gun, etc.)
The Naked Spur (MGM/Warners) One of the classic Jimmy Stewart-Anthony Mann collaborations. Good news is that Warners has announced it will be releasing this film on DVD sometime this year.
1954 The Command (Warners) Good cavlary western based on the writings of James Warner Bellah. One of Guy Madison's best films.
Drum Beat (Warners) Good Alan Ladd western directed by Delmer Daves with Charles Bronson as the Modoc chief Captain Jack. Arguably, Alan Ladd's second best western after "Shane".
Garden of Evil (Fox) Top notch western adventure film starring Gary Cooper, Susan Hayward and Richard Widmark. Directed by Henry Hathaway.
Johnny Guitar (Republic/Paramount) Excellent offbeat western direced by Nicholas Ray and starring Joan Crawford and Sterling Hayden with a stellar supporting cast. If David Lynch had directed a western in the 1950's it might have been something like this film.
The Outcast (Republic/Paramount) Very good Republic western starring John Derek, with good support from Bob Steele and Slim Pickens.
The Raid (Fox) Outstanding Civil War era film is one of Van Heflin's best movies. Good support from Peter Graves, Richard Boone, and Lee Marvin.
1955 The Last Command (Republic/Paramount) Arguably, the best of all the Alamo themed films. Directed by Frank Lloyd, whose speciality was historical dramas and adventure films such as the original The Sea Hawk (1924), Mutiny On the Bounty (1935), Under Two Flags (1936), If I Were King (1938), Rulers of the Sea (1939), etc. This was one of Republic's biggest productions. Sterling Hayden is good as Jim Bowie, and Arthur Hunnicutt seems more authentic in the part then most, if not all, of the other actors who have played Davy Crockett.
A Man Alone (Republic/Paramount) Excellent offbeat western starring and directed by Ray Milland, with strong support from Ward Bond.
Run For Cover (Paramount) Solid western directed by Nicholas Ray, with good performances from James Cagney and John Derek.
Santa Fe Passage (Republic/Paramount) One of the best westerns ever produced by Republic Studios starring, among others, John Payne, Rod Cameron, and Slim Pickens.
The Tall Men (Fox) Outstanding cattle drive themed cinemascope western directed by Raoul Walsh which is arguably Clark Gable's best post war movie. Would seem to be a natural for DVD. Once again, Fox's neglect of this film is inexplicable.
1956 The Last Wagon (Fox) Very good Delmer Daves directed western. To their credit, Fox has announced that this film is being released on DVD in May.
The Proud Ones (Fox) Excellent western starring Robert Ryan and Jeffery Hunter. Rumor has it that it was supposed to be released on DVD in May, however, so far it does not appear listed on the websites of some of the prominent retailers which were checked.
Tension at Table Rock (RKO/Warners) Very good western directed by the legendary writer, director, and producer, Charles Marquis Warren. Features a screenplay by Winston Miller who also wrote, among other things, "My Darling Clementine". Richard Egan's role as the gunman "Wes Tancred" is arguably the best of his career. Features good support from the wonderful Dorothy Malone, and Cameron Mitchell. Also features a small part for the up and coming Angie Dickinson.
Tribute to a Bad Man (MGM/Warners) Good ranchland western features a towering performance from James Cagney.
1957 Decision at Sundown (Columbia/Sony) Very good off- beat western directed by Budd Boetticher and starring Randolph Scott.
The Tall T (Columbia/Sony) One of the best of the series of collaborations between actor Randolph Scott, director Budd Boetticher, and writer Burt Kennedy. One of the all time great westerns. The continued failure of Sony to release this film on DVD is hard to understand.
1958 Buchanan Rides Alone (Columbia/Sony) Another very good Randolph Scott/Budd Boetticher western.
Day of the Outlaw (UA/Sony) Very good western starring Robert Ryan with top notch supporting performance from Burl Ives. David Nelson has a key role in the film.
Fort Dobbs (Warners) A wonderful and underrated western starring Clint Walker and Virginia Mayo, with good supporting work by Brian Keith. Written by Burt Kennedy. Movie is reminiscent of Hondo, and almost as good.
From Hell to Texas (Fox) Outstanding western directed by Henry Hathaway. Stars Don Murray, with memorable supporting performance by Chill Wills. Arguably, the best western ever directed by Henry Hathaway, who also directed, Rawhide, Garden of Evil, 3 of the episodes in How the West Was Won, Nevada Smith, True Grit, etc. The film has never been released on video in any format, and for some unknown reason is never shown on television either.
The Law and Jake Wade (MGM/Warners) Excellent John Sturges directed western starring Robert Taylor and Richard Widmark.
The Light In the Forest (Disney) Picturesque frontier film is very good. Probably Fess Parker's best movie.
Man of the West (UA/Sony) Very good Gary Cooper western directed by Anthony Mann. Probably the best Anthony Mann western which does not star Jimmy Stewart.
The Sheepman (MGM/Warners) Excellent Glenn Ford western with a great mixture of both comedy and drama. Directed by George Marshall and reminiscent in style of his earlier classic "Destry Rides Again". The wonderful supporting performance by Edgar Buchanan is possibly his very best. It's a shame that this film has never been released on either VHS or DVD.
1959 The Hanging Tree (Warners) Outstanding Gary Cooper western directed by Delmer Daves, which also features the debut of George C. Scott. The good news is that Warners has announced that it will be releasing this film on DVD sometime this year.
Ride Lonesome (Columbia/Sony) Another of the great collaborations between Randolph Scott, Budd Boetticher, and Burt Kennedy. Memorable supporting performances from James Coburn, Pernell Roberts, James Best and Lee Van Cleef. A classic. Once again, the continued failure to release this film on DVD is hard to understand.
The Wonderful Country (UA/Sony) A unique western based on the writings of Tom Lea, with a memorable performance by Robert Mitchum.
Yellowstone Kelly (Warnes) Good colorful Clint Walker western.
1960 Comanche Station (Columbia/Sony) The last of the great collaborations between Randolph Scott, Budd Boetticher and Burt Kennedy. Along with "Seven Men From Now", perhaps the greatest of their films. One of the all time great westerns. Once again, Sony's failure to release this film on DVD seems hard to understand. Hopefully, Sony will one day release all 5 of the outstanding Randolph Scott-Budd Boetticher films they control in one great collection.
Seven Ways From Sundown (Universal) One of Audie Murphy's best westerns.
Most of the outstanding westerns made after 1960 seeem to have been released on DVD, with the exception of a few films such as Monte Walsh (1970), The Rounders (1965), Lonely Are the Brave (1962), and perhaps Gold of the Seven Saints (1961).
This list does not include the large number of outstanding B and series Westerns, especially those of Buck Jones, made during the 1930's and 1940's, which have never been released on DVD, and in most cases were never even released on VHS.
Recent activity has shown that some progress is being made, however it would seem that the major studios still have a long way to go to round up these outstanding westerns for DVD release. c Jim Bur
During Hollywood's golden age, it seemed like more than half the films made were westerns. Although quite a number of westerns have been released on DVD, the western film still seems to be vastly underrepresented on DVD. There continue to be more outstanding western films unreleased on DVD than the films of any other genre. The studios have done a good job of releasing on DVD most of the outstanding western films made after 1960, however there are scores of outstanding western films made during the period 1929-1960 which have been so far neglected. This is a shame, because it was during that period that western filmaking was at its peak.
The following is a chronological list of some of the outstanding western films which the major studios have so far failed to release in region 1 on DVD (in parenthesis after each film title is the name of the studio that made the film and after that the name of the company who it is believed holds the current rights to release the film on DVD if different from the studio that made the film).
1929 The Virginian (Paramount) Based on Owen Wister's novel, which is arguably the finest piece of writing in the western genre. The first outstanding sound western film. One of Gary Cooper's greatest early roles, and Walter Huston is memorable as the heavy. Directed by Victor Fleming who later directed, among other films, Gone With the Wind and The Wizard of Oz. It has some of the typical technical faults of many early sound films, however this is more than offset by the authentic feel the film projects.
1932 Law and Order (Universal) Based on the novel "Saint Johnson" by the underrated William R. Burnett (who also wrote Little Caesar, High Sierra, The Asphalt Jungle, etc.) This is the granddaddy of all the Wyatt Earp/Doc Holliday films. Although inspired by the activities of Wyatt Earp and Doc Holiday in Tombstone they are called by different names. The film is over 70 year old, however it holds up very well in comparison with later versions. No doubt this is in large part due to the great performance of Walter Huston, in one of his best roles. Harry Carey is also excellent. Has never been released on video in any format.
1934 Viva Villa (MGM/Warners) Terrific biopic of the Mexican bandit Pancho Villa, with Wallace Beery giving perhaps the best performance of his career. Parts of the film were directed by Howard Hawks.
1935 The Arizonian (RKO/Warners) Another very good western inspired by the activiites of Wyatt Earp and Doc Holiday in Tombstone, although once again different names are used. One of Richard Dix's best performances, and good supporting performances by Preston Foster and Louis Calhern. Written by Dudley Nichols who later wrote, among other things, the screenplay to "Stagecoach". Has never been released on video in any format.
The Call of the Wild (Fox) Directed by William Wellman. This excellent film is one of Clark Gable's best movies. Frequently classified as either an adventure film or a western. Has never been released on video in any format.
1936 The Last Outlaw (RKO/Warners) A very good neglected western based on an orginal story co-written by John Ford. One of Harry Carey's most engaging performances. Excellent support fron Hoot Gibson, Tom Tyler and Henry Walthall. Released on VHS many years ago by a company called UAV, with a print indicating the film came from the UCLA Archives. One might assume that Warners would have the DVD rights since it is a RKO film, however since another company released it on VHS, there is doubt about who holds the rights to this film.
The Robin Hood of El Dorado (MGM/Warners) Another outstanding biopic of a bandit, in this case Joaquin Murietta. Based on the book by the underrated Walter Noble Burns who also wrote Tombstone and the Saga of Billy the Kid. Excellent lead performance by Warner Baxter, who made a speciality of such roles, and directed by William Wellman. Film was probably ahead of its time. Has never been released on video in any format.
1938 The Law West of Tombstone (RKO/Warners) Extremely likeable western features one of Harry Carey's best performances as a character similar in style to Judge Roy Bean. Good supporting performance by Tim Holt.
1939 Frontier Marshal (Fox) Still another good Wyatt Earp/Doc Holiday inspired western film, and perhaps the first one in which they were called by their real names. Randolph Scott plays Earp in this one. Has never released on video in any format.
Jesse James (Fox) Outstanding technicolor western directed by Henry King, with Tyrone Power as Jesse James and Henry Fonda as Frank James, and a tremendous supporting cast. A great slice of Americana, which is typical of many of Henry King's films. Hard to believe that Fox has so far failed to release this film on DVD.
Union Pacific (Paramount/Univesal Excellent epic western starring Joel McCrea and Barbara Stanwyck. The good news is that Universal has announced this film will be released in June as part of the Cecil B. DeMille collection.
1940 Northwest Passage (MGM/Warners) One of the all time great adventure films. Frequently considered part of the western genre due to its early American frontier setting. Arguably King Vidor's greatest sound film.
Santa Fe Trail (Warners) Entertaining Errol Flynn film, which features one of Ronald Reagan's best roles. Has had some public domain type DVD releases, but it is in need of a definitive DVD release from Warners.
Twenty Mule Team (MGM/Warners) Good western re-teams Wallace Beery and Leo Carillo who had worked together so effectively in "Viva Villa", and who again work well together in this film. Strong supporting cast includes Anne Baxter and Wallace Beery's nephew Noah Beery, Jr. (of Rockford Files fame). There are some very memorable scenes in Death Valley, especially the long stunningly photographed chase scene.
1941 The Shepherd of the Hills (Paramount/Universal) Very good piece of Americana directed by Henry Hathaway, and based on a once very famous novel by Harold Bell Wright. Great teaming of John Wayne and Harry Carey. The good news is that Universal has announced the film is being released on DVD in a couple of months as part of a new John Wayne collection. The collection would be worth purchasing just for this film alone.
Western Union (Fox) Great epic western in technicolor directed by Fritz Lang. Starring Randolph Scott, Robert Young, Dean Jagger, and a host of top notch character actors. Scott gives one of the most memorable performances of his career. Arguably even better than the more famous "Union Pacific".
1945 San Antonio (Warners) Entertaining Errol Flynn film, with the wonderful Alexis Smith an added plus.
1946 Canyon Passage (Universal) This underrated masterpiece is one of the all time great westerns. A tremendous box office hit at the time of its release. This film, along with "My Darling Clementine", was instrumental in ushering in the golden age of "A" western films. Directed by the versatile Jacques Tourneur (who also directed the early Val Lewton films, Out of the Past, Night of the Demon, etc.). Dana Andrews gives one of his greatest performances, and Susan Hayward, as usual, is also outstanding. The supporting performances from the likes of Ward Bond, Lloyd Bridges, Brian Donlevy, Andy Devine, etc are also uniformly excellent. The music and songs contributed by Hoagy Carmichael are among the best ever contributed to a western film, and Hoagy also does a nice job in a key supporting role. The beautiful lush technicolor would seem to make it a natural for DVD. A strong case could be make that, along with "Destry Rides Again", this was the greatest western ever produced by Universal. Hard to understand why Univesal has so far failed to release this film on DVD.
In Old Sacramento (Republic/Paramount) The first in a string of top notch A westerns made by William Elliott at Republic
Smoky (Fox) Excellent horse ranch film directed by Henry King's brother Louis King, who made a speciality of this kind of film. One of Fred MacMurray's best films, with an outstanding cast.
1947 Angel and the Badman (Republic/Paramount) Classic John Wayne film has had several public domain DVD releases, however a definitive first rate studio release is needed.
Gunfighters (Columbia/Sony) Good Randolph Scott western. The success of this film led him to thereafter specialize in westerns.
Ramrod (UA-Paramount) Great atmospheric western starring Joel McCrea. Based on a novel by Luke Short, who was to the western film of that era, what Raymond Chandler was to the film noir/detective film. The first in a string of outstanding westerns based on Luke Short's writings.
Unconquered (Paramount/Universal) Entertaining Cecil B. DeMille early Americana frontier epic starring Gary Cooper. Could be classified as an adventure film or a western.
Wyoming (Republic/Paramount) Another good William Elliott western with strong supporting cast.
1948 Blood On the Moon (RKO/Warners) Another great atmospheric western based on a novel by Luke Short. Arguably, Robert Mitchum's best western film, and except for the John Ford westerns, the best western ever produced by RKO.
Coroner Creek (Columbia/Sony) Excellent revenge western starring Randolph Scott based on a novel by Luke Short. One of Scott's best films. Very hard edged and violent film for its era.
Fort Apache (RK0/Warners) Great John Wayne/John Ford western based on a short story by James Warner Bellah. The first installment in Ford's cavalry trilogy, which were all based on Bellah's writings. The good news is that Warners is releasing this film on DVD in June as part of the John Wayne/John Ford collection.
The Gallant Legion (Republic/Paramount) Good Texas Ranger film starring, among others, William Elliott, Jack Holt, Bruce Cabot, and Andy Devine.
Old Los Angeles (Republic/Parmount) Highly entertaining William Elliott film directed with flair by Joseph Kane, who was the mainstay of the Republic westerns. John Carroll, as a villain, gives one of the most memorable performances of his career. The supporting cast is stellar.
Panhandle (Allied Artists/Warners) Great low budget "A" western starring Rod Cameron. Co-written by Blake Edwards, who also has a key co-starring role. Has never been released on video in any format, and for some unknown reason is never shown on television. The best western ever produced at Allied Artists or Monogram. Film needs to be made available to the public in at least some format.
The Plunderers (Republic/Paramount) One of Republic's better westerns.
Rachel and the Stranger (RKO-Warners) A nice slice of Americana with a terrific cast including Loretta Young, William Holden and Robert Mitchum.
Relentless (Columbia/Sony) Excellent western is one of Robert Young's best films.
The Return of the Badmen (RKO/Warners) Highly enjoyable western entertainment. The bad guys include a virtual who's who of famous outlaws. Robert Ryan is memorable as the main heavy, playing a character called the Sundance Kid, and Gabby Hayes is hilarious as usual. If you can get past the historical ludicrousness of all the name dropping it's a really fun film.
Roughshod (RKO/Warners) Thanks to Peter Fitzgerald for giving a reminder of this gem. This sleeper is one of the better RKO westerns, with Robert Sterling having probably the best role of his career. Good support from Claude Jarman, of "The Yearling" fame, John Ireland (good as usual), and a surrey full of dance hall girls lead by the always interesting Gloria Grahame.
Station West (RKO/Warners) Still another top notch western based on a Luke Short novel. Has a film noir feel, with very strong performances by Dick Powell and Jane Greer of "Out of the Past" fame.
3 Godfathers (MGM/Warners) Good news it that Warners has announced film will be released in June as part of the John Wayne/John Ford collection.
Yellow Sky (Fox) Along with "The Ox Bow Incident", director William Wellman's best western. The good news is that Fox has announced it is releasing the film on DVD in May.
1949 Ambush (MGM/Warners) Good cavalry film starring Robert Taylor. Based on a novel by Luke Short.
Brimstone (Republic/Paramount) Solid Republic Western with a stellar cast. Walter Brennan reprises the villainous partriarch he played in "My Darling Clementine".
Colorado Territory (Warners) Excellent Joel McCrea western directed by action master Raoul Walsh. It is a very successful reworking, in a western setting, of Walsh's earlier gangster film "High Sierra". A classic.
The Doolins of Oklahoma (Columbia/Sony) Very entertaining film about the Bill Doolin outlaw gang, with a top notch cast.
Hellfire (Republic/Paramount) Top notch western which may be William Elliott's best film. Done as a homage to William S. Hart. A very unique western film written by the McGowan brothers.
The Savage Horde (Republic/Paramount) Excellent William Elliott western with outstanding supporting cast.
South of St. Louis (Warners/Paramount) Top notch Joel McCrea western.
The Walking Hills (Columbia/Sony) Part of the cycle of goldhunting films that began with "The Treasure of the Sierra Madre" (1948), and which also includes "Lust For Gold" (1949). An excllent cast with Randolph Scott, Ella Raines, John Ireland, Arthur Kennedy, and Edgar Buchanan. The presence and singing of bluesy folk singer, Josh White, is an added plus. Written by Alan LeMay, who also wrote, among other things, "The Searchers" and "The Unforgiven". Perhaps, the best example of the early work of director John Sturges.
1950 Broken Arrow (Fox) Classic landmark western starring Jimmy Stewart, and directed by Delmer Daves. It is unbelievable that Fox has not yet released this film on DVD in region 1.
Devil's Doorway (MGM/Warners) Good Anthony Mann directed western starring Robert Taylor. Made in the spirit of Broken Arrow, though a darker film.
The Gunfighter (Fox) One of the all time great westerns. Directed by Henry King with Gregory Peck at his best. The faliure of Fox to release this film on DVD in region 1 is inexplicable.
Montana (Warners) Entertaining Errol Flynn western, again with the added plus of Alexis Smith.
Rocky Mountain (Warners) Very good Errol Flynn western directed by the co-director of Robin Hood, William Keighley. Although his earlier westerns had much more lavish budgets, this is arguably Flynn's second best western after "They Died With Their Boots On".
Short Grass (Allied Artists/Warners) Very good low budget "A" western starring Rod Cameron and Johnny Mack Brown.
The Showdown (Republic/Paramount) Another excellent William Elliott western written by the McGowan brothers, with strong supporting cast including Walter Brennan and Marie Windsor.
Singing Guns (Republic/Paramount) Outstanding offbeat western. Usually overlooked, probably because the leading role of the outlaw is played by singer/bandleader, Vaughan Monroe. However, it's an unexpected gem. This may in large part be due to the uniqueness of the writing by the McGowan brothers, who also wrote "Hellfire" and "The Showdown". Monroe does sing a few songs, however that's no detriment, since he was one of the great American singers and, except for one instance, the songs seem to flow seamlessly into the film. There are also excellent supporting performances from Ella Raines, Ward Bond, and Walter Brennan.
Stars In My Crown (MGM/Warners) Excellent Joel Mcrea film directed by Jacques Tourneur. It is usually classified as a western, though it probably could be more accurately classified as Americana.
Wagon Master (RKO/Warners) Outstanding John Ford western. Ben Johnson and Ward Bond at their best. The songs written by Stan Jones and performed by the Sons of the Pioneers greatly enhance the film.
1951 Best of the Badmen (RKO/Warners) Very entertaining western starring Robert Ryan.
Across the Wide Missouri (MGM/Warners) Directed by William Wellman, this memorable western adventure is arguably Clark Gable's best post-war MGM film.
Distant Drums (Warners/Paramount) Very good western adventure film directed by Raoul Walsh and starring Gary Cooper. A reworking by Walsh, in a western setting, of his earlier war film "Objective Burma". Was released on DVD a few years ago by Lions Gate, however it is in need of a new quality DVD release, which hopefully Paramount can provide.
Fort Defiance (UA/Sony) An overlooked gem. Ben Johnson stands out in what is probably his second best starring role, after his part in "Wagon Master". Also, good performances from Peter Graves and Dane Clark.
I'd Climb the Highest Mountain (Fox) This rural 19th century drama is a magnificent piece of Americana. A fine example of the narrative filmaking prowess of one of the most underrated directors, Henry King. From the time of his silent classic, "Tol'able David" (1921), King was known as having a special flair for making movies about rural America, and this movie is probably his best in this vein. William Lundigan gives what is, more than likely, the best performance of his career, and Susan Hayward is also outstanding. This movie is not technically a western since it takes place in rural Georgia, however it is similar in many respects to the film "Stars In My Crown", which is usually classified as a western.
Rawhide (Fox) Very good taut western suspense film starring Tyrone Power and Susan Hayward, and directed by the underrated Henry Hathaway.
Vengeance Valley (MGM/Warners) Good ranchland western based on another novel by Luke Short. This was Burt Lancaster's first western, and Robert Walker plays the villain. Film has been presented on DVD in a fairly decent public domain release, however a definitive release from Warners would be welcome.
1952 The Big Sky (RKO/Warners) Outstanding adventure western directed by Howard Hawks and starring Kirk Douglas. Memorable supporting performance by Arthur Hunnicutt, who also narrates the film.
Bugles In the Afternoon (Warners/Paramount) Very entertaining cavalry western starring Ray Milland
The Iron Mistress (Warners) Very entertaining saga of Jim Bowie in his pre-Alamo days. One of Alan Ladd's better roles.
The Lusty Men (RKO/Warners) Along with "Junior Bonner", this is the all time best rodeo themed movie. Robert Mithcum gives one of his greatest performances in this Nicholas Ray directed film.
Rancho Notorious (RKO/Warners) Good offbeat western directed by Firtz Lang. One of Marlene Dietrich's best film roles.
Ride the Man Down (Republic/Paramount) Next to "Rio Grande", arguably the greatest western ever produced by Republic Studios, which specialized in westerns. Based on one of Luke Short's best novels.
Springfield Rifle (Warners) Good Gary Cooper western. Part of a cycle of western films based around famous firearms which began with Winchester 73 in 1950.
1953 The Charge At Feather River (Warners) This film with its "guardhouse brigade" perhaps served as the protype for "The Dirty Dozen". Was a big box office hit in its day.
Escape From Fort Bravo (MGM/Warners) The first of the long series of outstanding big budget action films directed by John Sturges (Bad Day at Black Rock, Gunfight at the O. K. Coral, The Law and Jake Wade The Magnificent Seven, The Great Escape, Hour of the Gun, etc.)
The Naked Spur (MGM/Warners) One of the classic Jimmy Stewart-Anthony Mann collaborations. Good news is that Warners has announced it will be releasing this film on DVD sometime this year.
1954 The Command (Warners) Good cavlary western based on the writings of James Warner Bellah. One of Guy Madison's best films.
Drum Beat (Warners) Good Alan Ladd western directed by Delmer Daves with Charles Bronson as the Modoc chief Captain Jack. Arguably, Alan Ladd's second best western after "Shane".
Garden of Evil (Fox) Top notch western adventure film starring Gary Cooper, Susan Hayward and Richard Widmark. Directed by Henry Hathaway.
Johnny Guitar (Republic/Paramount) Excellent offbeat western direced by Nicholas Ray and starring Joan Crawford and Sterling Hayden with a stellar supporting cast. If David Lynch had directed a western in the 1950's it might have been something like this film.
The Outcast (Republic/Paramount) Very good Republic western starring John Derek, with good support from Bob Steele and Slim Pickens.
The Raid (Fox) Outstanding Civil War era film is one of Van Heflin's best movies. Good support from Peter Graves, Richard Boone, and Lee Marvin.
1955 The Last Command (Republic/Paramount) Arguably, the best of all the Alamo themed films. Directed by Frank Lloyd, whose speciality was historical dramas and adventure films such as the original The Sea Hawk (1924), Mutiny On the Bounty (1935), Under Two Flags (1936), If I Were King (1938), Rulers of the Sea (1939), etc. This was one of Republic's biggest productions. Sterling Hayden is good as Jim Bowie, and Arthur Hunnicutt seems more authentic in the part then most, if not all, of the other actors who have played Davy Crockett.
A Man Alone (Republic/Paramount) Excellent offbeat western starring and directed by Ray Milland, with strong support from Ward Bond.
Run For Cover (Paramount) Solid western directed by Nicholas Ray, with good performances from James Cagney and John Derek.
Santa Fe Passage (Republic/Paramount) One of the best westerns ever produced by Republic Studios starring, among others, John Payne, Rod Cameron, and Slim Pickens.
The Tall Men (Fox) Outstanding cattle drive themed cinemascope western directed by Raoul Walsh which is arguably Clark Gable's best post war movie. Would seem to be a natural for DVD. Once again, Fox's neglect of this film is inexplicable.
1956 The Last Wagon (Fox) Very good Delmer Daves directed western. To their credit, Fox has announced that this film is being released on DVD in May.
The Proud Ones (Fox) Excellent western starring Robert Ryan and Jeffery Hunter. Rumor has it that it was supposed to be released on DVD in May, however, so far it does not appear listed on the websites of some of the prominent retailers which were checked.
Tension at Table Rock (RKO/Warners) Very good western directed by the legendary writer, director, and producer, Charles Marquis Warren. Features a screenplay by Winston Miller who also wrote, among other things, "My Darling Clementine". Richard Egan's role as the gunman "Wes Tancred" is arguably the best of his career. Features good support from the wonderful Dorothy Malone, and Cameron Mitchell. Also features a small part for the up and coming Angie Dickinson.
Tribute to a Bad Man (MGM/Warners) Good ranchland western features a towering performance from James Cagney.
1957 Decision at Sundown (Columbia/Sony) Very good off- beat western directed by Budd Boetticher and starring Randolph Scott.
The Tall T (Columbia/Sony) One of the best of the series of collaborations between actor Randolph Scott, director Budd Boetticher, and writer Burt Kennedy. One of the all time great westerns. The continued failure of Sony to release this film on DVD is hard to understand.
1958 Buchanan Rides Alone (Columbia/Sony) Another very good Randolph Scott/Budd Boetticher western.
Day of the Outlaw (UA/Sony) Very good western starring Robert Ryan with top notch supporting performance from Burl Ives. David Nelson has a key role in the film.
Fort Dobbs (Warners) A wonderful and underrated western starring Clint Walker and Virginia Mayo, with good supporting work by Brian Keith. Written by Burt Kennedy. Movie is reminiscent of Hondo, and almost as good.
From Hell to Texas (Fox) Outstanding western directed by Henry Hathaway. Stars Don Murray, with memorable supporting performance by Chill Wills. Arguably, the best western ever directed by Henry Hathaway, who also directed, Rawhide, Garden of Evil, 3 of the episodes in How the West Was Won, Nevada Smith, True Grit, etc. The film has never been released on video in any format, and for some unknown reason is never shown on television either.
The Law and Jake Wade (MGM/Warners) Excellent John Sturges directed western starring Robert Taylor and Richard Widmark.
The Light In the Forest (Disney) Picturesque frontier film is very good. Probably Fess Parker's best movie.
Man of the West (UA/Sony) Very good Gary Cooper western directed by Anthony Mann. Probably the best Anthony Mann western which does not star Jimmy Stewart.
The Sheepman (MGM/Warners) Excellent Glenn Ford western with a great mixture of both comedy and drama. Directed by George Marshall and reminiscent in style of his earlier classic "Destry Rides Again". The wonderful supporting performance by Edgar Buchanan is possibly his very best. It's a shame that this film has never been released on either VHS or DVD.
1959 The Hanging Tree (Warners) Outstanding Gary Cooper western directed by Delmer Daves, which also features the debut of George C. Scott. The good news is that Warners has announced that it will be releasing this film on DVD sometime this year.
Ride Lonesome (Columbia/Sony) Another of the great collaborations between Randolph Scott, Budd Boetticher, and Burt Kennedy. Memorable supporting performances from James Coburn, Pernell Roberts, James Best and Lee Van Cleef. A classic. Once again, the continued failure to release this film on DVD is hard to understand.
The Wonderful Country (UA/Sony) A unique western based on the writings of Tom Lea, with a memorable performance by Robert Mitchum.
Yellowstone Kelly (Warnes) Good colorful Clint Walker western.
1960 Comanche Station (Columbia/Sony) The last of the great collaborations between Randolph Scott, Budd Boetticher and Burt Kennedy. Along with "Seven Men From Now", perhaps the greatest of their films. One of the all time great westerns. Once again, Sony's failure to release this film on DVD seems hard to understand. Hopefully, Sony will one day release all 5 of the outstanding Randolph Scott-Budd Boetticher films they control in one great collection.
Seven Ways From Sundown (Universal) One of Audie Murphy's best westerns.
Most of the outstanding westerns made after 1960 seeem to have been released on DVD, with the exception of a few films such as Monte Walsh (1970), The Rounders (1965), Lonely Are the Brave (1962), and perhaps Gold of the Seven Saints (1961).
This list does not include the large number of outstanding B and series Westerns, especially those of Buck Jones, made during the 1930's and 1940's, which have never been released on DVD, and in most cases were never even released on VHS.
Recent activity has shown that some progress is being made, however it would seem that the major studios still have a long way to go to round up these outstanding westerns for DVD release. c Jim Bur