20 Most Intense Movie Scenes Ever

5. Mexican Standoff - The Good, The Bad & The Ugly

The Good The Bad The Ugly Final Duel
United Artists

Sergio Leone's unforgettable western climaxes with Blondie (Clint Eastwood), Tuco (Eli Wallach) and Angel Eyes (Lee Van Cleef) partaking in a Mexican standoff, as they slowly take their positions and painstakingly eyeball one another for several minutes.

Ennio Morricone's scintillating musical score, Leone's terrific use of close-ups of his actors' faces and the pin-sharp editing combine to make this one of the most exciting final showdowns in the history of cinema, which concludes with Blondie killing Angel Eyes.

It's cinematic perfection and has aged exceptionally well over its 52 years.

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Stay at home dad who spends as much time teaching his kids the merits of Martin Scorsese as possible (against the missus' wishes). General video game, TV and film nut. Occasional sports fan. Full time loon.