A MILLION WAYS TO DIE IN THE WEST (2014)

While no Blazing Saddles, this may be the funniest (and most fun) western-comedy to come along since.  "Family Guy" creator Seth MacFarlane (director, co-writer, and star) is Albert, an wimpy farmer/sheep owner who spends most of his time avoiding death (it's the Old West, circa 1882, and the film constantly reminds us of the MANY ways one could die an early death in those days) and worshiping girlfriend Louise (Amanda Seyfried) ... who, early on, dumps Albert for the rich, successful Foy (a terrific Neil Patrick Harris), owner of his own first-class moustachery.  But it's when a distraught Albert meets new town resident, Anna (Charlize Theron) - hiding out while her outlaw husband Clinch (Liam Neeson) pulls off a big robbery - it's Albert who must face his own fears to find both true love and his real calling in life.  The raunchy/potty humor, a trademark of MacFarlane's, is in check but also quite toned down (by Seth standards), in a film that's hugely enjoyable and at times laugh-out-loud funny. (rated R)  A-

A MILLION WAYS TO DIE IN THE WEST trailer (adult content)