If you’ve ever watched a classic western, you know the image of the hero riding off into the sunset. It’s the image that most people associate with the genre, but there are many different types. The genre has a unique setting and story, as well as unique characters. Whether you’re looking for a historical setting or something more modern, you’ll find it in the genre of westerns.
Films
There are several films that are considered among the best westerns. Among these are Clint Eastwood’s For a Few Dollars More and Tom Hanks’ ‘The Magnificent Seven’. Both are incredibly powerful films, and feature stellar performances. A more satirical take on the genre is ‘Blazing Saddles’, which is a great spoof of the genre that marks the peak of Mel Brooks’ career. Another film in the genre is ‘The Sisters Brothers’, which rides familiar trails but delivers a witty and affecting drama. Similarly, John Sayles’s ‘The Shootist’ is a surprisingly smart, compelling film with a great ensemble.
The best westerns are often those that capture the spirit of the time. For example, the 1950s westerns were a great time for westerns, as they captured changing attitudes toward the West and Native Americans. The films reflected the spirit of a country recovering from World War II. The Western genre is incredibly flexible, however, and can accommodate a variety of stories and characters. The proverbial figure riding off into the sunset has become a cliche in the genre.
Characters
Western movies often depict the rugged, lawless West of the 19th century, where survival is the currency. In these films, cowboys and bandits battle for territory, and law and order are threatened. The films depict the ruthless power of nature, and their stories have survived through the centuries.
The genre is one of the most popular in cinema, and over the past few years, it has been making a comeback. New films have been made in the western genre, including Chloe Zhao’s standout rodeo drama The Rider. Antoine Fuqua recently remade John Sturges’ classic The Magnificent Seven, a remake of Akira Kurosawa’s Seven Samurai.
Although most people consider John Wayne Westerns to be rosy-tinted, some of the genre’s most memorable characters aren’t white men, or even men of color. One of Ford and John Wayne collaborations, The Searchers, has a genuinely racist character in Ethan Edwards, who threatens to kill his niece if she goes native. The film also has some iconic scenes, including a final shot that is referenced in Star Wars, Lawrence of Arabia, and Saving Private Ryan.
Amenities
Amenities at Best Westerns are geared toward the modern traveler. In addition to complimentary breakfast, the hotel offers free Wi-Fi, on-site guest laundry, and same-day dry-cleaning service. Each guest room features a flat-screen Smart TV and quality bedding. Rooms also have coffee and tea makers. Some of the properties also offer a fitness center or cocktail bar. Some also have social lobbies where guests can interact with each other.
Best Western Premier hotels offer amenities tailored to business travelers. These accommodations feature upgraded guest rooms and lobby design with ergonomic work desks. Additionally, each room comes with a refrigerator and microwave. There’s also a business center with high-speed Wi-Fi. In addition to these features, the Premier hotels also feature a pool, a well-equipped fitness center, and meeting rooms. Some Premier hotels also feature a cocktail bar.
Cost of staying at a Best Western
Best Western hotels offer a variety of amenities, such as indoor pools and gyms. You can also enjoy entertainment options like nightclubs and multiple restaurants. These hotels also offer reasonable prices, and you can earn bonus points by staying at one. If you have enough points, you can earn an award night for just $164.
The Best Western chain offers more than 110,000 rooms in more than 4,500 properties in 80 countries. They also feature nearly 20 different hotel brands, giving travelers the freedom to choose the one that fits their needs and budget best. Best Western is an iconic name in American hospitality, and their business model continues to evolve to accommodate the changing needs of leisure and business travelers.
