The western has had a long and strange history, which has seen it change from being one of the most popular movie genres, for decades until the 1960s, to one of the least popular in the '80s and '90s. But while interest in the Old West has varied, it's an era that has continued to fascinate filmmakers, from the earliest days of cinema to the present day, both in the US and in other countries. This is a genre that allows directors to experiment with conventions, address social and political issues, and introduce other genres into mix--from horror westerns to comedy westerns, via brutal bloodbaths, thrilling action, and haunting introspection. Some of the greatest actors and directors of all time became famous for their work in the western, and there are exceptional examples still made every year.

The influence of the western stretches beyond the theater, too--to TV, comic books, and video games. When Red Dead Redemption was released in 2010, it was met with rave reviews and massive sales. This was a game that threw the player into an incredibly immersive version of the old west and Mexico, one that drew heavy influence from western movies. Grizzled hero John Marston was clearly based on Clint Eastwood's Man with No Name, the violence was straight out of Tombstone or a Peckinpah movie, and the grand vistas of the west took their inspiration from the classic movies of John Ford and John Wayne.

Red Dead Redemption 2 has finally released on PlayStation 4 and Xbox One, and fans can expect an even more detailed, immersive world in which to work, kill, and explore. If you've been playing it to death since its launch, chances are that you're just about finished and are likely in the mood for more stories like it. Lucky for you there's a pantheon of amazing Western films out there that'll satiate your desires. Here are 15 must-see westerns that show the great breadth of the genre. Let's saddle up and ride into town.

If you're keen to learn more about the upcoming open-world western, read our Red Dead 2 review. Red Dead Redemption 2 is adding a bunch of exciting new mechanics that are incredibly exciting and intriguing, so be sure to check out our in-depth feature showcasing them all. Though, if you're more intrigued about the game's development and some of its major inspirations and influences, you should read our feature discussing how previous Rockstar games, like Bully, Max Payne 3, and L.A. Noire impacted its mechanics.

In the meantime, tell us which western films you love the most in the comments below!