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How the West Was Won

1962 · Movie · G · 164 min

★ 7.1(495)unSUB Rating

WesternAction

A multi-generation pioneer family’s journey westward spans the 1830s through the Civil War and beyond, showing shifting hardships and dangers across different eras. Told through episodic family life, the story follows their struggle to survive, build, and keep going as major historical events unfold.

Also known as The Great Western Story

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Details
Years
1962
Release date
1962-11-02
Language
English
Rated
G
Runtime
164 min
TMDB rating (input)
7.0/10 (495 votes)
About

If you want a sweeping, star-packed American West saga with big thrills and variety, this delivers; Not for you if you prefer a conventional, tightly connected storyline or if you dislike the unique Cinerama-style presentation like Fort Apache or Two Rode Together.

Pros: sweeping Western epic; star-studded cast; memorable set-pieces | Cons: episodic cohesion issues; mixed human connection; Cinerama experience quirks

Themes

  • river
  • settler
  • native american
  • caravan
  • outlaw
  • frontier
  • colonisation
  • family
  • riverboat
  • usa history
  • 3-strip cinerama

Awards & recognition

  • Academy Award — Best Writing, Original Screenplay · 1964
  • Academy Award — Best Film Editing · 1964
  • Academy Award — Best Sound · 1964
  • National Board of Review: Top Ten Films
  • Academy Award — Best Original Score · 1964 · nominated
Show all 12 awards →
  • Academy Award — Best Picture · 1964 · nominated
  • Academy Award — Best Writing, Original Screenplay · 1964 · nominated
  • Academy Award — Best Art Direction, Color · 1964 · nominated
  • Academy Award — Best Cinematography, Color · 1964 · nominated
  • Academy Award — Best Sound · 1964 · nominated
  • Academy Award — Best Costume Design, Color · 1964 · nominated
  • Academy Award — Best Film Editing · 1964 · nominated

Cast & crew