As a connoisseur of Western films and a keen observer of the portrayal of Black characters in this genre, I must say that these characters have come a long way since the days of the stereotypical sidekick or buffoon. The characters on this list showcase the richness and complexity of the Black experience during the Wild West era, and they serve as a testament to the talent and versatility of the actors who brought them to life.
I’m a huge fan of horse operas, and I’ve watched many of the best westerns of all time.
On the other hand, one aspect of the western genre that has often left me feeling unsettled is its tendency to either A: Completely exclude Black characters or B: Include Black characters, but in small or insignificant roles, or in a disrespectful manner. For instance, I can’t help but notice it in the 1931 movie, “Cimarron.
Whenever I come across Black characters playing significant roles in western films, it really sparks my enthusiasm. Here are some instances where that happens, and boy, am I thrilled about it!
Ned Logan (Morgan Freeman) – Unforgiven
As a devoted cinema enthusiast, I can’t help but express my admiration for Clint Eastwood’s masterpiece, “Unforgiven.” This gripping tale revolves around a disfigured prostitute and the reward her associates placed on those responsible for her plight. Often hailed as a profound western, it stands among my favorite films, and I find myself constantly debating whether “The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly” or “Unforgiven” is the superior western masterpiece.
In this movie, Eastwood, who’s not only the director but also the lead actor, portrays William Munny, a former bandit grappling with financial difficulties on his struggling farm. Seeking financial aid, he recruits his old companion, Ned Logan (played by Morgan Freeman), and a young, inexperienced cowboy known as “the Schofield Kid”.
Contrary to Munny, who remains a lethal individual deep down, Ned has lost that aspect of himself and grapples with re-entering his former profession. In a crucial scene, it’s evident that he is no longer capable of taking a life, as he has effectively left that world behind. Moreover, I find Ned’s character incredibly layered. He desires to assist – not only the sex workers but also his longtime riding companion – yet he battles with this need because he feels inadequate for the task.
Sadly, Logan encounters an unscrupulous character named Little Bill, who is a police officer with questionable ethics. His tale, though heartbreaking, stands out in a genre not typically known for remarkable portrayals by African American actors.
Cuffee (Danielle Deadwyler) – The Harder They Fall
In this primarily Black-cast western movie helmed by Jeymes Samuel, a cowboy named Nat Love (Jonathan Majors) pursues vengeance against a formidable outlaw named Rufus Buck (Idris Elba). Notably, most of the main characters are inspired by real individuals, making this tale also serve as a piece of historical fiction.
Among such an exceptional ensemble of characters, I find myself particularly drawn to Cuffee, portrayed by Danielle Deadwyler, as she is the one who captivates my interest the most.
Cuffee is intriguing due to her likely status as the most skilled marksman among many in her group, mirroring the true story of Cathay Williams, the first (and apparently only) woman to serve in the U.S. Army during the Frontier Wars. She was both underestimated and feared for her exceptional shooting abilities.
My preferred scene is where she stands off against Cherokee Bill, portrayed by Lakeith Stanfield, as it resembles a fierce duel over speed and skill. Truthfully, I yearn for more outstanding western roles for African-American women, as their representation is disappointingly low. By the way…
Moses “Mo” Washington (Letitia Wright) – Surrounded
Following the Civil War, Mo Washington, a liberated woman, seeks fortune by hunting for gold. However, unexpected events force her to shelter with a bandit named Jamie Bell, while others depart in search of aid after her stagecoach was ambushed.
In the film, Wright, whom I initially encountered through “Black Panther”, exhibits an unyielding strength. Her resilience is evident as she portrays a former Buffalo Soldier, but it’s truly challenged when interacting with Jamie Bell’s character, who delivers a rather flamboyant acting style.
However, Mo seems unfazed. Unfortunately, as a Black woman, some people fail to see her as credible. This changes dramatically once she pulls out her firearms, compelling them to acknowledge her authority.
Similar to Cuffee from the previous post, Mo realizes she’s been undervalued. It makes her victories over unknowing males even sweeter.
Buck (Sidney Poitier) – Buck And The Preacher
In this thrilling western movie, Poitier takes on the role of Buck, a veteran, for his first directorial effort. Buck assists other African Americans in their journey across the country, traversing indigenous lands. He’s made a pact with the native people, which proves crucial when white bounty hunters attempt to halt his mission. The climax is filled with suspense and excitement.
I thoroughly enjoyed the movie titled “Buck and the Preacher,” and I wish I had included it among Sidney Poitier’s finest works after his passing. The film also stars Harry Belafonte as a character named “Preacher” (though he’s not actually a preacher), alongside Ruby Dee as Buck’s wife. This movie is filled with exciting action and humor that will leave you grinning from ear to ear.
One thing I admire about Buck is his unwavering commitment to his principles and fulfilling his responsibilities towards fellow African Americans. Additionally, I appreciate how he seems to anticipate situations two steps ahead, and the unique bond he’s formed with native communities, as they both identify a common enemy to unite against.
Among Sidney Poitier’s films, “Buck and the Preacher” stands out as one of the top westerns with prominent Black characters.
Daniel Holt (Jeffrey Wright) – Ride With The Devil
Ang Lee’s Ride With the Devil is a western like no other.
Ride with the Devil narrates a complex account from the American Civil War era, depicting a story where opposing groups, specifically the Jayhawks and the Bushwhackers, engage in a prolonged conflict. In simpler terms, this film portrays a narrative about white men who were at odds, leading to mutual violence among them during that time.
Why, precisely, does it include it? The reason is that the character, Daniel Holt, played by Jeffrey Wright, was once a slave who subsequently fought for the Confederacy. He obtained his freedom through a Southern acquaintance.
This is definitely one of Jeffrey Wright’s best roles because he plays such a complex character. And this is because he’s not conflicted about which side he’s chosen. He’d rather fight beside his friend than fight for his potential future, which is a unique perspective, to be sure.
Django Freeman (Jamie Foxx) – Django Unchained
In this reimagined western directed by Quentin Tarantino, a former slave named Jamie Foxx is recruited by a bounty hunter, played by Christoph Waltz, to track down some fugitives. However, he eventually takes on the role of a bounty hunter himself, gaining his freedom in the process.
During Black History Month, I enjoy revisiting the film “Django Unchained,” as it offers a sense of fulfillment for me as a Black individual, given its powerful narrative and themes.
From a state of bondage, Django transitions to avenging the plantation owner’s death within his grand estate. Quite intriguing, isn’t it?
Django is a particularly fascinating character, though, since he flourishes so wonderfully. My favorite part is when he’s decked out in that fancy blue outfit, and he kills a racist jerk with gusto. I mean, seriously. How cool can you possibly get?
Major Marquis Warren, “The Bounty Hunter” (Samuel L. Jackson) – The Hateful Eight
In another Western film by Tarantino (originally intended as a sequel to Django Unchained before he changed his mind), a diverse group finds themselves trapped in a cabin on a wintry day. Conflict erupts, leading to violence.
Some might say that Tarantino did Jackson dirty in Django by making him an Uncle Tom-esque character, but if so, he did right by him in The Hateful Eight, where Jackson is arguably the coolest character in the movie.
As a devoted admirer, I find myself immersed in the role of a bounty hunter this time around, and it seems that my character, Jackson, consistently outsmarts almost everyone he crosses paths with. This exceptional skill set makes a compelling case for Major Marquis Warren being one of the most remarkable characters in Jackson’s extensive acting portfolio.
It’s worth noting that not everyone shares my enthusiasm for “The Hateful Eight” when it comes to Quentin Tarantino’s films, but personally, it ranks as my second favorite (after the undeniable classic, “Pulp Fiction”). The compelling character portrayed by Jackson is a significant factor behind my appreciation.
For more news on any future westerns, be sure to swing by here often!
Read More
Sorry. No data so far.
2024-12-14 19:07