9) Tombstone
Starring: Kurt Russell, Val Kilmer, Sam Elliot and Bill Paxton
Directed by: George P. Cosmatos
It’s surprising that “Tombstone” doesn’t get its due credit in the pantheon of the western genre. Most critics felt that it was mediocre to above average, but they would be dead wrong.
Kurt Russell dons the infamous character Wyatt Earp while Val Kilmer gives the performance of a lifetime as Doc Holliday. Kilmer especially shines as the drunken, jaundiced cancer ridden legendary killer. There’s no question that “Tombstone” is Kilmer’s best work and you will fall out of your seat laughing when he uses a small tin cup as a way to mock a rival twirling his gun. It’s special.
“Tombstone” is brutal, violent, ruthless and dangerous. The climax might put a tear in your eye. It follows the story of the Earp family moving to Tombstone, Arizona and run into a band of outlaws who call themselves “The Cowboys.” The tension escalates and ultimately leads up to the infamous shoot-out at the O.K. Corral.
If you haven’t seen this one then do yourself a favor and rent it now.