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Taylor Sheridan has established himself as a prominent figure in Hollywood. Initially starting as an actor, he featured in various television series such as Sons of Anarchy, Veronica Mars, and Walker, Texas Ranger. After losing interest in acting, Sheridan shifted his focus to writing and directing, crafting scripts for critically acclaimed films like Sicario, its sequel, Hell or High Water, and Wind River. He views the latter as his directorial debut.
However, Sheridan is most recognized as the mastermind behind the widely popular series Yellowstone. This neo-Western drama garnered immense success, spawning a franchise that includes two prequel series, 1883 and 1923, along with the anticipated sequel series, The Madison. If you’re a fan of Sheridan’s work and the Western genre, here are ten films that should definitely be on your watchlist.
10
‘Brokeback Mountain’ (2005)
Brokeback Mountain may initially seem like an unconventional choice. Yet, like Yellowstone, it falls under the neo-Western category, which merges classic Western elements with modern settings and social issues. This film portrays the intricate romantic relationship between two cowboys from the 1960s through the 1980s and becomes a landmark in LGBTQ+ cinema.
The film received widespread acclaim, particularly for the performances of Heath Ledger and Jake Gyllenhaal. Nominated for several Academy Awards, including Best Picture, its loss remains one of the most talked-about moments in Oscar history.
9
‘Horizon: An American Saga’ (2024)
Horizon: An American Saga is a film tailored for fans of Yellowstone, featuring Kevin Costner, the face of the series. Marking the beginning of a planned series of Western epics, this film explores life during the American Civil War and the characters adjusting to changes in the Midwest.
Costner has long envisioned this franchise, with the initial concept dating back to 1988. After many years in development, Horizon: An American Saga finally premiered in 2024, with three sequels already in the works. While the release dates for these sequels remain unconfirmed, the film stands strong on its own.
8
‘The Power of the Dog’ (2021)
The Power of the Dog unfolds against the backdrop of Montana’s plains. This film leans more towards psychological drama than traditional Western but still intertwines with the genre by presenting a tense rivalry between a rancher, Phil (Benedict Cumberbatch), and a young man, Peter (Kodi Smit-McPhee), in 1920s America.
The dynamic between the formidable Phil and seemingly timid Peter evolves into a riveting exploration of power and vulnerability. Critically lauded for its performances and an unexpected plot twist, The Power of the Dog is frequently highlighted among the best films of the 21st century.
7
‘Dances with Wolves’ (1990)
Dances With Wolves portrays Lieutenant John Dunbar during the American Civil War as he reassesses his loyalties and identity after forming a bond with Native Americans. The film, also featuring Kevin Costner, marked his directorial debut and was praised for its scope and nuanced take on the Western narrative.
Despite its tackling of controversial themes, Dances With Wolves received accolades for its fresh perspective in Western cinema. Sheridan cites this film as pivotal in shaping his approach to the genre, making it one of the four Western films to win the Oscar for Best Picture.
6
‘The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford’ (2007)
The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford dramatizes the complicated relationship between infamous outlaw Jesse James and his accomplice Robert Ford in the lead-up to James’ murder. The film stars an impressive cast including Brad Pitt as James, Casey Affleck as Ford, and Sam Rockwell as Charley Ford.
This cinematic piece unfolds slowly but intensifies during the final act, delivering a gripping portrayal of betrayal. It stands out as a well-crafted film that deserves recognition as one of the hidden gems from the early 2000s.
5
‘3:10 to Yuma’ (2007)
3:10 to Yuma emerged as a notable 2007 remake of the classic Elmore Leonard short story. Critics, including Roger Ebert, praised it for surpassing its predecessor. The film juxtaposes an outlaw (Russell Crowe) with a desperate rancher (Christian Bale) engaged in a tense game of cat-and-mouse, set in the old American West.
Filled with high-stakes action and exciting confrontations, this film perfectly aligns with the tastes of fans who enjoy the gritty storytelling seen in Sheridan’s Wind River or Hell or High Water.
4
‘Legends of the Fall’ (1994)
In 1994, the film Legends of the Fall, featuring Anthony Hopkins and Brad Pitt, spans nearly five decades and reflects on how war, love, and nature influence a family in the early 20th century. The sweeping landscapes of Montana resonate with themes found in Yellowstone, echoing the rugged masculinity and familial ties central to both narratives.
3
‘The Godfather’ (1972)
While The Godfather may seem an odd fit among Westerns, it served as a major influence on Yellowstone. Sheridan pitched his series as “The Godfather in Montana” when presenting it to networks. This iconic film, based on Mario Puzo’s novel, chronicles the rise of the Corleone crime family amid the power struggles of 1940s New York.
Esteemed as one of the greatest films in cinema history, it showcases an ensemble cast led by Marlon Brando and Al Pacino, exploring themes of loyalty and honor that resonate with Sheridan’s storytelling.
2
‘No Country for Old Men’ (2007)
No Country for Old Men, crafted by the Coen brothers, encapsulates a chilling narrative following Llewelyn Moss (Josh Brolin) as he stumbles upon drug money and becomes the target of a relentless assassin, Anton Chigurh (Javier Bardem).
This film exemplifies the neo-Western genre through its depiction of characters grappling with modernization and the violent remnants of the old West. It stands as another notable winner of the Academy Award for Best Picture.
1
‘Unforgiven’ (1992)
Unforgiven, directed by and starring Clint Eastwood, is a pivotal Western that has great significance for both Eastwood and Sheridan. The story follows an aging outlaw seeking redemption while confronting his violent past. Alongside formidable performances from Morgan Freeman and Gene Hackman, it presents a gritty yet profound narrative.
This Academy Award-winning film is noted as one of the four Westerns to win the Oscar for Best Picture, reinforcing its legacy. Sheridan credits Unforgiven as a primary influence on Yellowstone, showcasing its lasting impact on contemporary Western storytelling.
Source
movieweb.com