An ‘awesome’ movie with a stellar cast of A-listers combines two very unlikely genres in an action-packed Western sci-fi that is pure entertainment and set in a futuristic version of the 1870s

Blending a Western and an alien movie together could seem like a bizarre concept.

But it’s one which fans of Cowboys & Aliens adore for its unashamed entertainment factor. With a cast list that includes Hollywood greats Daniel Craig and Harrison Ford, the lead characters are forced to fight aliens who have abducted a group of townspeople. It may have divided critics when it was released but the acting and special effects were generally praised and devotees can’t understand the haters, with one asking, “I mean, c’mon, Daniel Craig and Harrison Ford fighting aliens on horseback? What’s not to love?”

Set in the American southwest of 1873, outlaw Jake Lonergan (Craig) wakes up in the desert with no memory and an odd metal bracelet attached to his wrist. He walks to the town of Absolution where he is recognised by the Sheriff who orders his arrest.

A mysterious stranger named Ella. played by Olivia Wilde, backs Jake but along with a young drunk called Percy he is prepared for trial in Santa Fe. Percy’s father, the powerful cattleman Woodrow Dolarhyde (Ford) demands custody of both his son and Jake, who owes him money.

As the drama between the sheriff and Woodrow ensues, an alien invasion takes place and some of the townspeople, including Percy, are abducted. Jake’s bracelet kicks into action and shoots down one of the alien spacecraft. The battle is on to rescue the hostages and discover why the extra-terrestrials have come to earth.

Based on the 2006 graphic novel of the same name by Scott Mitchell Rosenberg, the movie was directed by Jon Favreau and was released in 2011. It had a mixed critical response, although the lead actors performances and the special effects were generally lauded.

Fans of the film share their thoughts on Rotten Tomatoes, where it scores a 44% rating. One was baffled by the negativity surrounding the movie: “Unique storyline, excellent acting, good special effects,” they raved. “I don’t understand the poor reviews but this movie is always moving and never boring. I mean, c’mon, Daniel Craig and Harrison Ford fighting aliens on horseback? What’s not to love? It’s just so good!”

Another loved the mixed genres: “It’s Indiana Jones, Star Wars, James Bond, Alien, Predator, The Frisco Kid, and District 9 wrapped up into a single film and amazingly, it works!” they wrote. A third said: “This is one of my old go to favorites!! I’m not really into westerns generally. This however is funny, dramatic, action packed and the alien aspect is awesome! The actor line up seems to be perfect and really makes the movie great.”

While another added: “Awesome movie. Gave me brief vibes of the Knights of Cedonia music video by Muse as well as the classic movie with Yul Brenner, Westworld. Cowboys, aliens, laser guns, the only things missing are ninjas and dinosaurs.”

Cowboys & Aliens airs on Film 4 at 6.45pm tonight, Friday 5 December.