A Review of Westerns in the 1980s: 'The Long Riders' and Other Notable Films

While Western films had enjoyed a renaissance during the 1960s and 1970s, the genre seemed to lose favor in theaters by the 1980s.

Despite the decline, a few notable Westerns managed to stand out during this period. One of the most well-received was The Long Riders, released in 1980 and directed by Walter Hill. The film was produced and starred brothers Stacey and James Keach, portraying the legendary outlaws Frank and Jesse James, respectively.

Cast and Production Details

The cast of The Long Riders featured numerous actor brothers, creating a familial feel to the production. Keith Carradine and David Carradine took on the roles of the Younger brothers, while Christopher and Nicholas Guest portrayed the Ford brothers. Originally, Beau and Jeff Bridges were also slated to join the cast but had to be replaced due to scheduling conflicts.

Key Aspects of the Film

While the film lacked a strong narrative arc, it was praised for its realistic portrayal of the American West. Unlike the more Hollywoodized versions of the period, The Long Riders aimed to capture the authenticity and brutal realities of life in the Old West. Additionally, Walter Hill's effort to depict violence authentically contributed to the film's appeal.

On websites like Rotten Tomatoes, The Long Riders has received a high rating of 83, indicating its positive reception by both critics and audiences.

Among other notable Westerns released in the 1980s, a few stand out:

The Legend of the Lone Ranger (1981)

This film retold the classic story of the Lone Ranger, focusing on his origin as a daring and resourceful masked rider of the plains. Notable for its high production values and the actors involved, it stands as a more faithful adaptation compared to its recent remake.

Pale Rider (1985)

Often heralded as an uncredited remake of Shane, Pale Rider tells the story of a gunslinger named Mark Harlan, who rides into a mining town to battle industrial mining companies. Despite its connection to the original Shane, the film has gained critical acclaim with time.

Silverado (1985)

Gunfighters seeking revenge on corrupt companies wreak havoc on a small town in this Western classic. The film features a strong ensemble cast and remains a beloved entry in the genre despite its cliche-ridden script.

Young Guns (1982)

This film revisits the story of Billy the Kid but with its own unique spin. The cast, including Danny Glover, Val Kilmer, and Kevin Kline, brings a lot of star power and flavor to the tale. While the script is often criticized for its reliance on cliche, the love for the genre is palpable.

While these films varied in their quality and impact, they all contributed to the enduring legacy of Western cinema in the 1980s. Whether through a realistic depiction of the era, strong performances, or a throwback to the golden age of Westerns, these films remain significant works in the genre.