No Country for Old Men: The Ultimate 21st Century Western Reigns Supreme in Major Poll

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The poll has been concluded for the best Western movie of the 21st century, and it’s “No Country for Old Men” that has emerged victorious. This award-winning contemporary masterpiece solidified the Coen brothers as the ideal directors to bring to life the harsh, crime-infused portrayal of America found in Cormac McCarthy’s novel.

The New York Times gathered thoughts from over 500 prominent directors, actors, and well-known figures in Hollywood to identify the top movies from the last 25 years. Among these, the chilling portrayal of Anton Chigurh by Javier Bardem and the powerful acting coupled with a dark atmosphere in “No Country for Old Men” have significantly boosted its esteem since it was released in 2007.

No Country For Old Men Is The Top Western Of The 21st Century

The Film Clocked In At Number 6 Overall

This century’s ranking places “No Country for Old Men” at the sixth spot, making it the highest-ranked authentic Western on the list. However, Paul Thomas Anderson’s crime saga, “There Will Be Blood,” which includes some Western elements, ranks third. The top two positions were occupied by groundbreaking films: “Mulholland Drive” and “Parasite.

In a recent article, “Succession” actor Brian Cox praised the movie “No Country for Old Men,” stating it showcases the Coen brothers at their creative peak and continually pushing the boundaries of filmmaking. He specifically highlighted Javier Bardem’s exceptional performance as a key factor contributing to the film’s high praise.

In a grisly saga of violence and destiny, the movie “No Country for Old Men” created an exceptionally distinct ambiance by incorporating lengthy scenes devoid of music or dialogue. This film’s haunting visual style offers a chilling portrayal of America’s murky underworld, revealing its less savory aspects.

Our Take On No Country For Old Men’s Placement

This Just Might Be The Coen Brothers’ Magnum Opus

Among the contemporary Western films produced in the 21st century, only a few manage to rival the great classics from the past, and “No Country for Old Men” certainly fits this category. While Javier Bardem’s haunting portrayal of Chigurh often dominates discussions about this movie, performers like Tommy Lee Jones, Josh Brolin, and Woody Harrelson bring exceptional depth to an already remarkable script.

The film “No Country for Old Men” rightfully earns a spot among the top films of this century due to its skillful blend of intense drama and genuine horror. Interestingly, it’s one of only four Western films in Academy Awards history to win Best Picture, and even two decades after its initial release, it continues to receive new recognition as a neo-Western masterpiece.

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2025-07-05 18:37