The 7 Most Iconic Heroes of Spaghetti Western Cinema Ranked

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The term Spaghetti Western is used to describe Western films made outside of America, particularly in Italy. Initially a somewhat derogatory label, the best examples of this genre have managed to stand on par with classic American Westerns like The Searchers, High Noon, and The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance in terms of quality. Spaghetti Westerns adopt a darker, more realistic, and bold approach compared to traditional American Westerns, featuring anti-heroes and morally ambiguous yet compelling characters.

Keoma is a somewhat underrated masterpiece within the spaghetti Western genre. Starring Franco Nero, this film tells the story of a man returning from the Civil War who tries to save his town from the control of evil people. The fact that the character's half-brothers are on the opposing side complicates matters further and makes the film darker in line with spaghetti Western traditions. The film reaches its peak with a violent and unforgettable finale, and Nero has proven himself in such roles.

"The Good, the Bad and the Ugly" is a powerful film that can even be recommended to viewers who do not enjoy traditional Westerns. Despite being made in 1966, it seems to have never aged. The character "The Good," played by Clint Eastwood, may technically fit the name but is not truly a good person. However, Tuco is included in this ranking; although it is hard to even call him an anti-hero, he is inevitably loved by the audience. Tuco, who is in a crushed position among the three characters, is often left out in the chaotic race towards the hidden treasure, which justifies his place among spaghetti Western heroes.

Franco Nero will appear again in Keoma ten years after taking the lead in Django. Django, beyond being the inspiration for Django Unchained, is an incredible film in its own right. His character may not be a hero in the traditional Western sense, but as a man arriving in a town filled with bad people, it is reasonable to consider him a hero.

Clint Eastwood first appeared on screen as "The Man with No Name" in "A Fistful of Dollars." This role became a turning point that made Eastwood a star in cinema. In this first film of the Dollars trilogy, Eastwood behaves in a distinctly heroic manner. He is neither overshadowed by Tuco in "The Good, the Bad and the Ugly" nor overshadowed by the true hero of the second film in the trilogy.

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