VHS Review: Tombstone (1993)
A western that deserves the praise
Introduction:
Tombstone is a movie that would be one of those movies that my dad would always put on if it was on. I never watched it fully but I do have memories of my dad watching it and seeing partial scenes from it. I would point out especially the scene of Kurt Russel saying “no” and pointing out how goofy it was and he wouldn’t disagree. So I’m going to cheat a little with this film in this serie because I didn’t actually grow up watching it, but because of the passing of Val Kilmer and this also being one of my dad’s favorite movies, I wanted to write a review of this film. I do have a copy of the film on VHS and so I think it a very valid pick for a VHS review. So with that, here’s my thoughts on Tombstone.
Review:
As someone that is not too familiar with the western genre, Tombstone is a film that makes me want to go through and watch them. I was surprised to see how much I enjoyed this film. The characters are all fantastic and I get a joy watching them together. They also have some of coolest mustaches out there and make me want to keep my mustache the rest of the year lol. Doc Holiday especially is a character that stands out and I think he easily has some of the best dialogue in the film. The performance that Kilmer gives for this character is easily his best performance I’ve seen from him and maybe one of my favorite characters in a film. I like that you know this character has a history and even though he’ sick through the film, he is able to defy all odds and prove people wrong. This is helped with the incredible writing the film has and a line that has stuck out to me since watching is “there’s no normal life Wyatt, it’s just life”. and of course “i’m your huckleberry” The film relies on a lot of dialogue and this could easily not work, but because of the great writing and performances that accompany them, it works in the films favor. The acting also is especially is good. not only from Kilmer, but Kurt Russell, Sam Elliot, and Bill Paxton are all especially great together. They are all able to create performances where you feel from the characters and when a character feels an emotion, you feel it right back. I thought this especially for Wyatt. I love that this film was able to pull off these strong characters and it’s easily the films best part.
As much as I’ve been going on about the characters, writing, and performances, A lot of the other elements of the film are great as well. For one, the overall production feels grand and you never get a sense that you’re watching a movie. From the set design, costumes, and effects, it stands out there. The film also has some fantastic shots to look at and view. Those shots of the gang just watching are simple, yet effective for how cool they look. The score from Bruce Broughton is fantastic all around and the theme has been something that has been stuck in my head since watching it. It’s a memorable score that uses the score at perfect times. This film does so much right and I really do understand now why this film is highly praised among many. I think it’s one flaw is being a little cheesy at certain points. As I’ve mentioned before, that damn scene with Kurt Russell screaming “noooo” is a bit silly and feels a bit out of place as much as I love it. But besides that, this film was awesome and is something that will remembered by me for a while.
Conclusion:
Overall: Tombstone is an iconic western film that makes me want to watch more from the genre. It has some incredible elements attached to it including Val Kilmer’s greatest performance as Doc Holiday. Rest in Peace Val. Your work will always be remembered.