The Outlaw Josey Wales

Released 1976
Runtime 166
Category Action/Adventure
Language English
Director Clint Eastwood
Cast Clint Eastwood, Sam Bottoms, Bill McKinney, Chief Dan George, Sondra Locke, Paula Trueman, John Vernon
What it's about Missouri farmer-turned-Confederate soldier Josey Wales (Eastwood) becomes an outlaw when he refuses to surrender to "red leg" Union soldier Terrill (McKinney), the man responsible for murdering his wife and son. Pursued by U.S. cavalry and ruthless bounty hunters, Wales teams up with wounded rebel Jamie (Bottoms), then must defend the homestead of an elderly woman and her grandda...

Looking for Your Next Great Film?

You’ve had a taste! How about some more?
Register for FREE access to more content and our weekly newsletter!

Already a member?

By clicking “Register Free & Subscribe Now” you agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge the Privacy Notice.

Don’t want to register, but still want to Support BMBF?

Enjoy Unlimited Access to Best Movies by Farr SEE SUBSCRIPTION OPTIONS

Remove Ads

What it’s about

Missouri farmer-turned-Confederate soldier Josey Wales (Eastwood) becomes an outlaw when he refuses to surrender to “red leg” Union soldier Terrill (McKinney), the man responsible for murdering his wife and son. Pursued by U.S. cavalry and ruthless bounty hunters, Wales teams up with wounded rebel Jamie (Bottoms), then must defend the homestead of an elderly woman and her granddaughter when his enemies find him.

Why we love it

One of Eastwood’s finest and most underrated directorial efforts, “Outlaw” leaves behind the actor’s “Man With No Name” persona for a slightly more honorable, if no less laconic, hero out for vengeance. Though he’s a wanted renegade with an agenda, Wales befriends a wry Cherokee, Lone Watie (Chief Dan George) and two settlers played by old-timer Paula Trueman and sultry Sondra Locke. Cheated of his own family, Wales forms and then must defend a make-shift community where trust and respect are the founding pillars. Great acting, exquisite photography, and an engaging story about alliances make for a rousing, thoughtful Western. Open your door to this “Outlaw.”

Up Next

Rocky