Men, guns and penises: How the Western film genre became the definition of masculinity

In the 20th century, Western films were predominantly male-oriented, casting women in domestic roles while reinforcing the hero-villain dichotomy amidst an evolving genre.

Despite its origins in the settler frontier of colonial-era America, the Western genre has been embraced globally, leading to diverse interpretations and challenges to traditional narratives.

Films like Pedro Almodovar's Strange Way of Life showcase how Westerns are being redefined, focusing less on the conventional Anglo perspective and more on varied narratives.

The Western genre, long seen as stagnant, continues to evolve, merging with diverse cultural narratives and expanding its influence and representation across different societies.

Read at english.elpais.com