Top Villains in Clint Eastwood's Western Films: A Definitive Ranking

Clint Eastwood is known for his roles in Western movies, but let's not forget about the memorable villains he faced. A hero is only as good as the antagonist they go up against. The villains in Eastwood's Westerns stood out because of their great performances and well-developed characters. After starring in so many iconic Western films, it's only right that his villains are remembered just as much.

A good villain should have depth in their motives and behavior, but some of the most memorable ones are just plain wicked.

Eastwood may have often portrayed the hero in his movies, but that doesn't mean his characters always operated within clear moral boundaries. In Western films, the setting of the lawless West and a strong emphasis on individualism can blur the lines between right and wrong. This individualistic mindset can also lead the villains to believe they are above any consequences for their actions. A well-crafted villain should have depth in their motivations and behaviors, but the most memorable ones are simply wicked.

The Women - The Beguiled (1971)

Played by Geraldine Page, Elizabeth Hartman, and Jo Ann Harris

Clint Eastwood and Elizabeth Hartman in The Beguiled (1971) - Played by Geraldine Page, Elizabeth Hartman, and Jo Ann Harris - The Women - The Beguiled (1971)

The remake of The Beguiled by Sofia Coppola has received praise as one of her top films. However, the original version starring Eastwood is often underrated for its impact on the Southern Gothic genre. In the story, a young soldier is taken in by a group of women at a school. The women's jealousy towards Eastwood's character, John, ultimately leads to his demise. Despite not being clear-cut villains, the women are portrayed as complex and multi-dimensional characters in Eastwood's film. John himself exhibits qualities of a villain through his actions towards them.

The Beguiled is available to rent on Prime Video.

Coy LaHood - Pale Rider (1985)

Played by Richard Dysart

Richard Dysart in Pale Rider - Played by Richard Dysart - Coy LaHood - Pale Rider (1985)

In "Pale Rider," Eastwood portrays a supernatural character who confronts the villains as a mysterious figure of death. The antagonist, Coy LaHood, is a man who dislikes anyone who stands in his way, but he is puzzled by Preacher's ability to survive against all odds. LaHood, a bully, tries to manipulate or threaten Preacher into obeying him, but in the end, such individuals never succeed in Western tales. He is a significant antagonist in Western films because he symbolizes the struggle against death that every person faces.

You can watch "Pale Rider" on Prime Video.

Frank Harlan - Joe Kidd

Played by Robert Duvall

Robert Duvall as Harlan in Joe Kidd - Played by Robert Duvall - Frank Harlan - Joe Kidd

In most of Joe Kidd, it appears that Joe (Eastwood) is supporting Harlan (Duvall) in his quest to unlawfully take over land from a group of Mexicans who are being forced out by white settlers. Harlan is portrayed as a character easy to dislike, as he shows little concern for those he harms and is solely focused on gaining power and control over the land. This theme of greed and exploitation is common in Western movies, reflecting the historical drive to acquire resources during the movement West. Harlan is depicted as a cunning villain for his swift actions in displacing a whole community of people.

Watch Joe Kidd on Netflix.

Captain Wilson - Hang ‘Em High (1968)

Played by Ed Begley

Ed Begley as Captain Wilson in Hang 'Em High - Played by Ed Begley - Captain Wilson - Hang ‘Em High (1968)

In Hang 'Em High, the line between right and wrong is often unclear as Cooper (Eastwood) is urged to seek legal justice against the men who hanged him, rather than seeking vengeance. The movie explores the theme of upholding the law in a setting where settlements are scarce and enforcement is lacking. Characters like Captain Wilson exploit this situation, taking matters into their own hands and carrying out revenge as they see fit. Wilson's introduction as the leader of Cooper's attackers showcases his ruthless nature, making him a compelling yet chilling character.

Catch Hang 'Em High on HBO Max.

Captain Terrill - The Outlaw Josey Wales (1976)

Played by Bill McKinney

Bill McKinney as Captain Terrill in The Outlaw Josey Wales - Played by Bill McKinney - Captain Terrill - The Outlaw Josey Wales (1976)

The Outlaw Josey Wales explores the aftermath of the American Civil War through the story of Josey Wales, who sides with the Confederates after Union soldiers kill his family. Captain Terrill, the Union leader, is not portrayed as evil because of his affiliation, but rather as a victim of the brutality of war. The film uses the Civil War setting as a metaphor to illustrate the broader impact of conflict. Terrill's character serves as a symbol, highlighting the deeper message about the consequences of war.

Ramón Rojo - A Fistful Of Dollars (1964)

Played by Gian Maria Volonté

Gian Maria Volonté as Ramón Rojo aims a rifle in a scene from A Fistful of Dollars. - Played by Gian Maria Volonté - Ramón Rojo - A Fistful Of Dollars (1964)

In the first film of the Dollars Trilogy directed by Sergio Leone, A Fistful of Dollars had to stand out from other Westerns of its time. Despite the genre's popularity, this movie succeeded with the help of actors Clint Eastwood and Gian Maria Volonté. The opening scene immediately grabs your attention, but it's the character Ramón Rojo who keeps the excitement going. As the villain, he proves to be a formidable opponent for Eastwood's character. Notably, this film marked Eastwood's first major role in a leading role.

El Indio - For A Few Dollars More (1965)

Played by Gian Maria Volonté

El Indio reaches for his gun in For a Few Dollars More - Played by Gian Maria Volonté - El Indio - For A Few Dollars More (1965)

El Indio, a character in the movie, stands out from typical Western villains. Played by Volonté, he captures the audience's attention with a dark secret he keeps hidden. The pocket watch he always carries holds a mysterious significance, adding depth to his character. Despite his ruthless nature, Indio seems haunted by his past and shows signs of inner turmoil, if not genuine remorse. This film, often overlooked in the Dollars Trilogy, deserves more recognition for its compelling villain.

Watch For A Few Dollars More on HBO Max.

The Stranger - High Plains Drifter (1973)

Played by Clint Eastwood

Clint Eastwood as the Stranger and Mariana Hill as Callie Travers in High Plains Drifter - Played by Clint Eastwood - The Stranger - High Plains Drifter (1973)

Little Bill Daggett - Unforgiven (1992)

In the movie Unforgiven, Little Bill Daggett is portrayed as the antagonist. He is a complex character, blurring the lines between being a villain and a hero. Throughout the film, his actions force the audience to question their perceptions of justice and morality. Despite his brutal methods and questionable motives, there is a sense that his actions are driven by a twisted sense of justice. Gene Hackman's portrayal of Little Bill Daggett adds layers to the character, leaving a lasting impact on the viewers.

Played by Gene Hackman

Gene Hackman As Little Bill Daggett In Unforgiven - Played by Gene Hackman - Little Bill Daggett - Unforgiven (1992)

Unforgiven, a film starring Eastwood, is not just one of his best works but also raises the question of whether he excels more as an actor or a director. The movie delves into Eastwood's legacy and the declining influence of Western films. Little Bill Daggett, played by Hackman, embodies the dangers of abusing power as a corrupt sheriff. His ruthless and unapologetic cruelty towards others makes him a formidable villain, with his followers mirroring his despicable actions.

Angel Eyes - The Good, The Bad & The Ugly (1966)

Played by Lee Van Cleef

Angel Eyes (Lee Van Cleef) squinting in the desert before their climactic duel in The Good, The Bad and The Ugly - Played by Lee Van Cleef - Angel Eyes - The Good, The Bad & The Ugly (1966)

Eastwood's The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly is considered the ultimate Western film, largely due to the character Angel Eyes portrayed by Van Cleef. Van Cleef's portrayal of Angel Eyes is truly captivating, with his menacing presence leaping off the screen. What sets Angel Eyes apart from other villains is his ruthless nature - willing to do whatever it takes to get what he wants. It's even more impressive considering Van Cleef had previously played a hero in a Leone film, making his performance as Angel Eyes truly his standout role.

Editor's P/S:

The article provides an insightful exploration of the memorable villains featured in Clint Eastwood's Western films. The writer successfully conveys the depth and complexity of these antagonists, highlighting their motivations and the impact they have on the stories. The descriptions of each villain are vivid and engaging, capturing their unique personalities and the challenges they pose to Eastwood's characters. Overall, the article offers a well-rounded perspective on the importance of compelling villains in Western films and the significant contributions made by Eastwood's antagonists to the genre.

The writer's inclusion of various streaming platforms where these films are available is a valuable addition, allowing readers to easily access and experience these classic Westerns. This thoughtful touch enhances the article's practicality and makes it a helpful resource for Western film enthusiasts.