From sweeping deserts to vibrant cities, Texas has long been a source of inspiration for filmmakers, offering a dynamic backdrop for stories that capture the grit, and culture of the Lone Star State. Whether exploring its sprawling landscapes, complex history, or diverse communities, movies set in Texas are as varied as the state itself. These films delve into the heart of what makes Texas unique, from heartfelt dramas and gritty Westerns to hilarious comedies and thrilling crime sagas.
In this list, we rank the 50 greatest movies set in the greatest state on the planet by celebrating stories that define and transcend Texas’s iconic character. Spanning multiple genres and decades, these films showcase Texas as more than just a setting but also a vital character in the narrative. Whether you’re a Texan proud of your roots or simply a film enthusiast eager to explore Texas’s cinematic legacy, these picks will take you on an unforgettable journey deep into the heart of Texas.
30. The Apostle (1997)
Robert Duvall has been delivering fantastic performances for decades and his turn as an out-of-control Texas Pentecostal preacher is my favorite. He is captivating and charismatic showing the complex nature of being a man of deep faith and being extremely flawed. His life is turned upside down after a violent confrontation and he must go on the run. While seeking redemption and battling his darker impulses, he helps bring life to a run-down congregation. The Apostle stands out for its sincerity and raw emotional power, exploring spirituality and personal redemption in a way that feels real and unflinching. It’s a testament to Duvall’s vision as both an actor and director, making it one of the most acclaimed films of his career
29. The Three Burials of Melquides Estrada (2005)
As a nonlinear neo-Western, The Three Burials of Melquiades Estrada is a layered and complex film that slowly reveals the emotional weight behind each character’s actions. Tommy Lee Jones plays a ranch foreman who seeks to fulfill a promise to his friend by returning his body to Mexico after he has been killed by a border agent. He must traverse the vast and barren Texas landscape with his friend’s body showcasing Jones’ talent while he delivers an emotional and understated performance. His character’s sense of honor and determination is at the heart of the film, providing a powerful portrayal of friendship and loss.
28. North Dallas Forty (1979)
Nick Nolte playing a hard-drinking, over-the-hill, and battered wide receiver struggling with the physical and emotional toll of the game? Sign me up! Nolte is at his raw best and his chemistry with Mac Davis, who plays the quarterback, adds some genuine depth to bonds made through team sports. Essentially a semi-autobiographical of a former Dallas Cowboy this film examines the harsh realities behind the glamour of professional football, highlighting the physical abuse players endure and the unethical practices of the league back in the 1970s..North Dallas Forty confronts difficult themes like drug use, player exploitation, and the emotional detachment required to survive in professional sports. Its authentic feel helps make this one of the best football films ever.
27. Office Space (1999)
One of the original and most meme-able movies, Office Space is a hilarious and sharply satirical comedy that critiques the absurdities of corporate life and mind-numbing office culture. Directed by Mike Judge, the film follows Peter Gibbons as a disgruntled software company employee who becomes fed up with the monotony and bureaucracy of his job. Peter’s apathetic rebellion against his workplace leads to a series of comedic events, from destroying office equipment to plotting an embezzlement scheme. Characters like Gary Cole as the infuriatingly passive-aggressive boss Bill Lumbergh and Milton played by the lovable Stephen Root, with his obsessive attachment to his red stapler, have become iconic in their portrayal of office worker eccentricities. Office Space’s mix of sharp humor and social commentary has made it a cult classic, especially for anyone stuck in the grind of office work
26. Urban Cowboy (1980)
Essentially a different version of Saturday Night Fever but with country music and bull riding. John Travolta was on the tail end of his hot streak. He plays a young man from a small Texas town who moves to Houston to work at an oil refinery and becomes immersed in the urban cowboy scene at the famous Gilley’s nightclub. His chemistry with newcomer Debra Winger would be the heart and soul of this film. Well, that and mechanical bull riding of course. The film captures the Texas honky-tonk culture of the late 1970s and early 1980s, with Gilley’s nightclub serving as a central setting for both the characters’ romance and personal struggles. For country music lovers, the soundtrack is a must listen featuring artists such as Johnny Lee, Charlie Daniels, Mickey Gilley, and more. Much like Saturday Night Fever, Urban Cowboy is a nostalgic look at a specific era and culture that outsiders may not be aware of.
25. Blood Simple (1984)
In the Coen Brothers’ directorial debut, they showcase their distinct style of dark humor and suspense that we would come to love as their signature style. Set in a small Texas town, the film revolves around a web of deceit, betrayal, and murder. Francis McDormand delivers a standout performance as a woman caught in a deadly love triangle involving her bar-owner husband and her lover. When Abby’s husband hires a shady private investigator M. Emmet Walsh to kill her and her lover, the plan spirals out of control, leading to a series of tense and violent confrontations. There is a minimalist style with tense dialogue that heightens the brooding atmosphere of suspense that makes Blood Simple a must-see for fans of noir and crime thrillers.
24. Rolling Thunder (1977)
When it comes to underrated and overlooked revenge thrillers, Rolling Thunder is at the top of that list. It is a gritty and violent film that follows William Devane as a Vietnam POW returning home just to have his family brutally murdered. Devane delivers a cold, restrained performance as Rane, a man scarred by war who seeks vengeance with relentless determination. His chemistry with co-star Tommy Lee Jones as a veteran war buddy along for the vengeful ride helps it become a fun but brutal path of retribution. Writer Paul Schrader knows how to do the lonely tortured man better than anyone out there and Director John Flynn added the gruesome action to help paint the picture.
23. The Sugarland Express (1974)
In his theatrical debut, Steven Spielberg showcases his talent early on for being able to blend high-stakes action with human emotion. The supple Goldie Hawn breaks her hubby out of prison in a desperate attempt for them to reunite with their child. This turns into a wild, high-speed chase across Texas that turns into a media spectacle. Spielberg’s direction is masterful, building tension while injecting moments of humor and warmth, particularly through the couple’s growing bond with a reluctant hostage.
22. The Getaway (1972)
Sam Peckinpah directs a stylish action-thriller with some high-octane chase scenes. But his true talent shines through as this gritty action film is balanced with a character-driven drama starring Steve McQueen and Ali McGraw as a bank-robbing couple on the run. The chemistry between the two leads adds a layer of emotional tension to the film’s relentless pace. With stunning cinematography, and a memorable score by Quincy Jones, The Getaway stands out as one of the best crime films of the 1970s, solidifying McQueen’s legacy as a Hollywood legend.
21. Giant (1956)
The story follows the Benedict family, focusing on the tensions between cattle rancher Bick, his strong-willed wife, Leslie, and their troubled relationship with a ranchhand turn oil tycoon Jett. The film examines the changing culture of family and industry in Texas as it transitions from the cattle economy to oil-driven wealth. Giant is driven by its powerhouse performance of Rock Hudson, Elizabeth Taylor, and most notably, James Dean’s portrayal of the ambitious yet troubled Jett. This would be James Dean’s last role before he passed. He wouldn’t even get to see the film’s release.
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What are some of your favorite movies set in the great state of Texas?
