Horses have been an integral part of Western films since they were first used in silent films in the early 1900s. Horses were used in everything from stunts to providing a much-needed mode of transportation in the vast, open landscapes of the West. However, while they provided an iconic image of the Western genre, the use of horses in these films can also be seen as problematic. This raises the question of whether old Western movies hurt horses. In this article, we will explore the various ways in which horses were used in old Western films, the potential risks posed to horses, and the measures taken to protect them on set.
History of Horses in Western Films
Horses have been a key feature of Western films since the early days of the genre. Silent films such as The Great Train Robbery (1903) and The Great K&B Train Robbery (1912) featured horses prominently, setting the precedent for their use in the genre. Horses were also used as a form of transportation in films such as Stagecoach (1939) and The Searchers (1956). In these films, horses were used to traverse the vast and open landscapes of the Old West, providing a sense of freedom and adventure.
Potential Risks to Horses
The use of horses in Western films can also pose risks to the horses themselves. Stunt work often involves horses running at high speeds, risking potential falls or collisions. Furthermore, horses are often subjected to loud noises and special effects that can startle and frighten them, putting them at risk of injury. In addition, horses can be exposed to extreme weather conditions, such as intense heat or cold, which can be dangerous for the animals.
Measures Taken to Protect Horses
In light of the potential risks posed to horses, filmmakers have taken steps to ensure their safety. Horse wranglers are always on set to provide guidance and supervision, and stunt riders are trained to perform stunts safely and without putting the horses in danger. In addition, the American Humane Association (AHA) has established guidelines for the humane treatment of animals in films, television, and other media. These guidelines cover everything from the proper housing and care of animals to the conditions in which they can be used on set.
Reaction of Animal Rights Groups
The use of horses in Western films has been met with criticism from animal rights groups. Organizations such as PETA have raised concerns about the potential risks posed to horses, and have called for greater oversight and regulation of animal use in films. They have also argued that the use of horses in films perpetuates the notion of horses as expendable objects, rather than sentient beings that deserve respect and compassion.
Alternatives to the Use of Horses
In recent years, some filmmakers have begun to explore alternatives to the use of horses in Western films. For example, the use of green screen technology and computer-generated imagery (CGI) has allowed filmmakers to create convincing Western landscapes without the need for live horses. In addition, some filmmakers have chosen to use stunt riders on motorbikes and ATVs instead of horses, reducing the risk of injury to the animals.
Horses in Modern Western Films
Despite the potential risks posed to horses, the animals remain a key feature of modern Western films. Horses are featured prominently in films such as The Revenant (2015) and The Ballad of Buster Scruggs (2018), as well as TV shows such as Westworld (2016-present) and Godless (2017). In these films, horse wranglers and stunt riders are still employed to ensure the safety of the animals, and the American Humane Association has continued to set and enforce guidelines for their humane treatment.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while the use of horses in old Western films can pose risks to the animals, filmmakers have taken steps to ensure their safety. Stunt riders are trained to perform stunts safely, and the American Humane Association has established guidelines for the humane treatment of animals in films. Furthermore, some filmmakers have chosen to use alternatives to horses, such as computer-generated imagery and motorbikes, reducing the risk of injury to the animals. Ultimately, while the use of horses in Western films can be seen as problematic, the risks posed to horses can be minimized with the proper safety measures in place.
FAQs
Are horses still used in Western films?
Yes, horses are still used in Western films. Horse wranglers and stunt riders are employed to ensure their safety, and the American Humane Association has established guidelines for the humane treatment of animals in films.
What alternatives to horses are used in Western films?
Some filmmakers have chosen to use alternatives to horses, such as computer-generated imagery and motorbikes, reducing the risk of injury to the animals.
What measures are taken to protect horses in Western films?
Horse wranglers are always on set to provide guidance and supervision, and stunt riders are trained to perform stunts safely and without putting the horses in danger. In addition, the American Humane Association has established guidelines for the humane treatment of animals in films, television, and other media.
What risks are posed to horses in Western films?
The use of horses in Western films can pose risks to the horses themselves. Stunt work often involves horses running at high speeds, risking potential falls or collisions. Furthermore, horses are often subjected to loud noises and special effects that can startle and frighten them, putting them at risk of injury. In addition, horses can be exposed to extreme weather conditions, such as intense heat or cold, which can be dangerous for the animals.