5 Best Western Comedies Of All Time, Ranked
While rare, Western comedies rank among the most entertaining subgenres in film. The top Western comedies listed here, from least to most noteworthy, rely on classic elements of the Western genre while emphasizing humor. Typical Western films often offer thrilling action and intense dramatic themes. However, Western comedies cleverly introduce comedy within serious contexts.
These standout Western comedies critique the genre itself, including its common characters and plotlines. Filmmakers use humor to parody serious narratives found in Westerns. Several Western comedy films deserve recognition as some of the finest comedies in cinema history. Here are the top five Western comedies of all time.
5. The Ballad of Buster Scruggs (2018)
The Ballad of Buster Scruggs presents six distinct stories set in the Old West after the Civil War. Directed by Joel and Ethan Coen, this innovative film features characters such as a deadly singing gunslinger and a pair of bounty hunters. Unlike their earlier, more intense work in No Country For Old Men (2007), this film showcases the whimsical character charm present in Fargo (1996) and The Big Lebowski (1998).
4. Little Big Man (1970)
Little Big Man features a remarkable duo: Dustin Hoffman and Faye Dunaway. Under the direction of Arthur Penn, known for Bonnie and Clyde, this film recounts the life of Jack Crabb (Hoffman), raised by Indigenous Peoples. This revisionist Western broke new ground by enabling Indigenous representation on screen. Part of the New Hollywood movement, it showcases rich satire and strong performances, especially by Hoffman and Dunaway.
3. Destry Rides Again (1939)
Destry Rides Again marks one of James Stewart's early career-defining roles. Directed by George Marshall, this classic seamlessly blends comedy and drama. Deputy Sheriff Tom Destry Jr. must bring order to Bottleneck without resorting to firearms. This film also highlights Marlene Dietrich as Frenchy, an enchanting saloon singer.
2. My Name Is Nobody (1973)
My Name Is Nobody draws inspiration from spaghetti Western pioneer Sergio Leone. Starring Terrence Hill and Harry Fonda, it follows Nessuno—Hill’s character—challenging the aging gunslinger Jack Beauregard (Fonda) to go out with a dramatic flair. Hill contributes the slapstick humor, contrasting Fonda’s reserved portrayal of a traditional Western figure.
1. Blazing Saddles (1974)
Blazing Saddles is often hailed as the greatest Western comedy ever created. Directed by Mel Brooks, noted for his comedic genius in Young Frankenstein, this film stars Cleavon Little as Bart and Gene Wilder as Jim, with Madeline Kahn delivering an Oscar-winning performance. The hilarious screenplay emerges from Brooks, Andrew Bergman, and Richard Pryor, resulting in a movie that ranks among the funniest in film history. Hence, Blazing Saddles stands as the definitive Western comedy.
Earlier, SSP told about all Harry Potter movies: ranked from worst to best.