Meet the Cast of Once Upon a Time in the West

There were three men in her life. One to take her… one to love her —and one to kill her.

Released on December 21, 1968
Drama Western

Once Upon a Time in the West is a classic spaghetti western film directed by the legendary Sergio Leone. The movie is known for its iconic characters, beautiful cinematography, and gripping storyline. The film features a star-studded cast, including Claudia Cardinale as Jill and Henry Fonda as Frank.

Jill, played by Claudia Cardinale, is a beautiful and strong-willed woman who arrives in the small town of Flagstone with the intention of starting a new life. After the death of her husband and child, Jill is determined to make a fresh start in the American West. However, she soon finds herself in the middle of a dangerous feud between a ruthless gang of outlaws and a group of railroad builders who are determined to reach the sea. Despite the danger, Jill refuses to be intimidated and stands her ground, determined to make a new life for herself in the West.

On the other hand, Frank, played by Henry Fonda, is a ruthless and sadistic gang leader who will stop at nothing to get what he wants. Known for his icy blue eyes and cold demeanor, Frank is a formidable opponent who will stop at nothing to achieve his goals. As the railroad builders advance unstoppably through the Arizona desert, Frank and his gang of outlaws do everything in their power to sabotage their progress and take control of the territory. However, they soon discover that they have met their match in Jill, who refuses to be intimidated and fights back against their brutal tactics. The stage is set for an epic showdown between Jill and Frank, as they battle for control of the American West.

Full Cast of Once Upon a Time in the West

Claudia Cardinale

as Jill

Claudia Cardinale's performance as Jill in 'Once Upon a Time in the West' is a standout element of the film. She brings a sense of vulnerability and determination to the character, making her journey from a newly widowed bride to a resilient landowner captivating. Cardinale's portrayal of Jill's transformation is nuanced and compelling, showcasing her acting prowess. Her on-screen presence adds a layer of complexity to the narrative, making her an unforgettable character in this classic western.

Henry Fonda

as Frank

Henry Fonda's performance as Frank in 'Once Upon a Time in the West' is a masterclass in villainy. Known for his heroic roles, Fonda's unexpected casting as the cold-blooded, ruthless antagonist adds an extra layer of shock and discomfort. His icy blue eyes, usually associated with righteousness, now chillingly convey a sense of merciless cruelty. Fonda's portrayal is nuanced and understated, making Frank all the more terrifying. He effortlessly switches from calm and composed to explosive and violent, keeping the audience on edge. It's a testament to Fonda's versatility as an actor and a standout performance in his illustrious career.

Jason Robards

as 'Cheyenne'

In Sergio Leone's epic Western "Once Upon a Time in the West," Jason Robards delivers a standout performance as the enigmatic outlaw, Cheyenne. Robards brings a unique blend of rugged charm and sardonic humor to the role, making Cheyenne a character that is both captivating and unpredictable. His portrayal is nuanced, revealing a man who is as comfortable with violence as he is with witty banter. Robards's performance is a highlight of the film, adding depth and complexity to the already rich tapestry of characters in this classic Western.

Charles Bronson

as 'Harmonica'

Charles Bronson's portrayal of 'Harmonica' in 'Once Upon a Time in the West' is a masterclass in subtlety and intensity. His character, a mysterious gunslinger seeking revenge, is brought to life with a quiet, simmering rage that is both captivating and chilling. Bronson's performance is largely non-verbal, relying on his expressive eyes and body language to convey his character's complex emotions. His iconic harmonica playing, which serves as a haunting leitmotif throughout the film, adds an additional layer of depth to his character. Bronson's performance is a testament to his skill as an actor, and his 'Harmonica' remains one of the most memorable characters in the history of Western cinema.

Gabriele Ferzetti

as Morton

Gabriele Ferzetti delivers a captivating performance as Morton in "Once Upon a Time in the West". As a wealthy railroad tycoon, Ferzetti brings a sense of sophistication and power to the role. His nuanced portrayal of Morton's physical frailty, contrasted with his ruthless ambition, adds depth to the character. Ferzetti's performance is particularly noteworthy in the scenes where he manipulates others, showcasing his ability to convey a chilling sense of authority. Overall, Ferzetti's portrayal of Morton is a standout element of the film, contributing significantly to its enduring appeal.

Paolo Stoppa

as Sam

Paolo Stoppa's portrayal of Sam in 'Once Upon a Time in the West' is a standout performance, filled with nuance and depth. His character, a member of the outlaw gang led by Frank (Henry Fonda), is not a typical villain. Stoppa brings a sense of humanity to Sam, making him a complex and intriguing character. His interactions with Jill (Claudia Cardinale) are particularly noteworthy, as he manages to convey a sense of empathy and understanding, despite being part of the gang that killed her family. Stoppa's performance adds a layer of complexity to the film, making it a memorable addition to the Western genre.