Which of the following elements is NOT typically associated with Western films?

The correct choice, which identifies an element not typically associated with Western films, is the one that points to urban cityscapes and modern technology. Western films are traditionally set in the rural American West during the late 19th to early 20th centuries, focusing on themes such as law versus lawlessness, and often depict the moral struggles of individuals, especially in the context of the untamed frontier.

The presence of archetypal characters like cowboys is a hallmark of the genre, emphasizing their roles as rugged individualists facing both physical and moral challenges. Additionally, the themes surrounding frontier life, such as survival, conflict with native peoples, and the quest for justice, are central to the Western narrative and serve to explore the American experience during that period.

In contrast, urban settings and modern technology are more characteristic of genres that explore contemporary issues or settings, such as urban dramas or science fiction, rather than the historical, rural backdrop crucial to Western films. This discrepancy highlights why urban cityscapes and modern technology do not align with the customary elements associated with Westerns.