Western Legends: Lee Van Cleef

Lee Van Cleef carved a unique place in Western cinema with his sharp features, intense gaze, and unforgettable presence. Often cast as a villain or antihero, he became one of the most iconic faces of Spaghetti Westerns, particularly during the 1960s and 1970s. Here’s a look at his top 10 Western films that defined his career:

1. For a Few Dollars More (1965)

Van Cleef’s breakout role as Colonel Douglas Mortimer paired him with Clint Eastwood under Sergio Leone’s direction. His mix of cold precision and personal vendetta made this film a Spaghetti Western classic.

2. The Good, the Bad and the Ugly (1966)

Arguably his most famous role, Van Cleef played the ruthless bounty hunter “Angel Eyes” opposite Eastwood and Eli Wallach. His cold, calculating villain defined the “bad” in Leone’s legendary trilogy.

3. The Big Gundown (1966)

Directed by Sergio Sollima, this film showcased Van Cleef as a relentless bounty hunter pursuing a suspected criminal. It’s widely considered one of his best performances and a standout Spaghetti Western.

4. Day of Anger (1967)

Van Cleef starred as a seasoned gunslinger mentoring a young outcast, played by Giuliano Gemma. The film mixes action with themes of loyalty and betrayal, making it a fan favorite.

5. Sabata (1969)

This stylish and playful Western featured Van Cleef as the mysterious and deadly Sabata, known for his trick weapons and unflappable cool. Its success spawned sequels and cemented his leading-man status.

6. Return of Sabata (1971)

Van Cleef reprised his Sabata role in this sequel, bringing back the character’s charm and deadly skills. Though less acclaimed than the original, it remains a staple for Sabata fans.

7. Death Rides a Horse (1967)

A gritty revenge tale, Van Cleef played a gunslinger teaming up with a younger man (John Phillip Law) seeking vengeance. Their uneasy partnership drives the tension and action.

8. The Grand Duel (1972)

Another revenge Western, Van Cleef portrayed a former sheriff aiding a fugitive to clear his name. The film’s moody atmosphere and memorable music have earned it cult status.

9. Beyond the Law (1968)

Van Cleef took on a somewhat different role as an outlaw who assumes the identity of a lawman. It’s a lesser-known but intriguing entry in his Western catalog.

10. Barquero (1970)

In this American-made Western, Van Cleef played the steely ferryman Travis, holding off bandits trying to cross a river. His tough, no-nonsense performance stood out among his more European works.

These films highlight Van Cleef’s range — from cold-blooded villains to complex antiheroes. His legacy in the Western genre remains strong, and his sharp profile still looms large in the minds of fans worldwide.