Haven't seen 3:10 to Yuma yet, but your Western meta reminded me of this article on gay subtext in the cowboy genre. Thought you might like to read it. :)

Also, I just happened to see I Am Legend, and was also very impressed! Something about a man and his dog just pushes every button I have. And that scene where he talks along with the Shrek movie... That's the one that did me in.