10 Classic Westerns That Deserved Oscars, But Got Snubbed Instead
Western movies take us back to a time of daring outlaws, brave sheriffs, and epic showdowns in the dusty streets of old towns, Clint Eastwood-style.
But it seems like people who hand out Oscars often don't pay enough attention to these thrilling stories; even though movies like Cimarron, Dances With Wolves, and Unforgiven have won the big prize, there are so many classic westerns that didn't get even a nod from the Academy.
Despite their ability to transport audiences to another time and place, making them feel the tension and excitement of a gunfight or the quiet beauty of a sunset over the plains, these films were overlooked when it came to handing out awards.
It's a real shame, too; because recognizing these films could have introduced more people to the rich storytelling and complex characters that make westerns so memorable.
This list aims to pay our respects to those classic westerns that deserved an Oscar but were sadly (and dare we even say, unfairly) ignored. Consider this list a tribute, of sorts – to the directors, iconic actors, and crews who created these cinematic masterpieces that continue to entertain and inspire us viewers, Oscars or not.
It just proves that a lot of times, a movie's worth isn't measured by the awards it wins but by the impact it has on the audience.
This year, the Academy Awards are scheduled for Sunday, March 10, taking place at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles. The event is to start at 7 p.m. EST.