The vast and rugged landscapes of the old American West have been a subject of fascination for film lovers for over a century. Paramount+ has curated an impressive collection of westerns that continue to captivate with tales of outlaws, lawmen, gunfighters, and pioneers. Here are some of the best westerns available on Paramount+ that you can’t afford to miss, ranked:

1. True Grit (2010): This tale of vengeance and valor features Jeff Bridges in an Academy Award-nominated performance as Rooster Cogburn, the one-eyed marshal who helps a young girl track down her father’s killer.

2. Once Upon a Time in The West (1968): A masterpiece by Sergio Leone, this film is well-noted for its extended opening sequence, Ennio Morricone’s renowned score, and Henry Fonda’s against-type casting as the villain.

3. The Outlaw Josey Wales (1976): Directed by and starring Clint Eastwood, this post-Civil War tale follows a farmer turned outlaw on a quest for revenge, transcending to a journey about redemption and forgiveness.

4. Yellowstone (2018-present): While not a film, this TV series by Taylor Sheridan has become a modern-day staple in Western drama with Kevin Costner leading as John Dutton defending his sprawling Montana ranch.

5. El Dorado (1966): A charismatic ensemble cast including John Wayne and Robert Mitchum in a Howard Hawks-directed classic that combines action with doses of humor as they play gunfighters protecting a family’s ranch from ruthless bandidos.

6. The Magnificent Seven (1960): An iconic western that redefined the genre, it stars Yul Brynner and Steve McQueen as part of a group of gunslingers hired to protect a Mexican village from bandits.

7. High Noon (1952): Gary Cooper stars in this real-time western about a town marshal forced to face a gang of killers alone after the townsfolk he protected turn their backs on him.

8. 3:10 to Yuma (2007): A gripping story of morality and duty in which Russell Crowe plays an infamous outlaw being escorted to jail by Christian Bale’s struggling rancher desperate for reward money.

9. Lonesome Dove (1989): Another series entry but too monumental not to mention. This epic mini-series based on Larry McMurtry’s novel follows two aging Texas Rangers on one last cattle drive.

10. Hell on Wheels (2011-2016): This TV series set after the Civil War centers around the construction of the First Transcontinental Railroad and offers an intense portrayal of the era’s hardships and lawlessness.

Paramount+ might not have an as extensive catalogue as some other streamers when it comes to Westerns, but the above titles are more than enough to satisfy any fan’s appetite for action-packed storytelling set amidst frontier justice and scenic backdrops. Each production brings something unique to the table while embodying the essence of what makes Westerns enduringly popular.