Movies

If You Loved Tombstone, Don’t Miss This Star-Studded ’90s Western Gem

BBG News

If you appreciated the 1993 film “Tombstone,” you might also enjoy another timeless Western that came out just two years after. Titled “Tombstone,” this movie was directed by George P. Cosmatos and is loosely based on the true tale of Wyatt Earp, a renowned sheriff from the American frontier. The film shows how Earp, along with his brothers, moved to Tombstone, Arizona to leave their past behind, but found themselves tasked with eliminating a gang of troublemakers known as the Cowboys who were causing chaos in the town.

The film “Tombstone” received widespread recognition from critics, who highly praised its cast, including Kurt Russell, Sam Elliott, and Bill Paxton for their acting skills. Val Kilmer’s portrayal of Doc Holliday was particularly noted as standout, with many considering it one of his most memorable performances. This role in “Tombstone” is believed to have kick-started Kilmer’s acting career, helping him secure the part in “Batman Forever.” Today, “Tombstone” is often cited among Val Kilmer’s finest works and is regarded as one of the best Western films ever produced. Despite its reputation, there are other Western movies that offer comparable enjoyment.

Tombstone Fans Will Love The Quick & The Dead

The Quick And The Dead Was Directed By Sam Raimi

1995 saw the release of the Western movie “The Quick and the Dead,” which featured Sharon Stone, Gene Hackman, Russell Crowe, and Leonardo DiCaprio in one of his early roles. This film was the seventh directorial project by Sam Raimi. The story follows Ellen McKenzie (Sharon Stone), also known as “The Lady,” who journeys to the town of Redemption to avenge her father’s death. Pretending to participate in a shooting competition, organized by the mayor, John Herrod (Gene Hackman), she soon realizes that things aren’t as they seem.

Initially upon its debut, “The Quick and the Dead” garnered a mixed reception from audiences. It scored merely 55% on Rotten Tomatoes and was criticized for its overused tropes and falling short compared to previous Westerns. However, with the passage of time, this film has been reevaluated by both critics and viewers, earning recognition as one of Sam Raimi’s most underappreciated directorial works. The movie received praise for its cast’s performances and for featuring a female lead. It also added fresh elements to the Western genre and is definitely worth watching for “Tombstone” fans.

The 1990s Was A Surprisingly Good Decade For Western Movies

The Decade Saw The Release Of Movies Such As Desperado, Dances With Wolves & Unforgiven

The Western movie genre thrived in the early 20th century, with hits like “The Searchers” (1956) and “True Grit” (1979). However, by the 1980s, its popularity started to wane. In the 1990s, a few Western films such as “Tombstone,” directed by notable figures like Kevin Costner and John Sayles, emerged, reintroducing the genre to new viewers and offering fresh storylines. Movies such as “Dances With Wolves” (1990) and “Ride With the Devil” (1999) are often credited with reviving the Western genre.

Without a doubt, one standout western film from the 1990s is the 1992 production, “Unforgiven,” directed and acted by Clint Eastwood. In this movie, Eastwood plays an older outlaw coaxed back into action for one last job, only to grapple with the repercussions of his past decisions. The film provides a gripping tale of regret and redemption and was awarded four Oscars in 1993, including Best Picture. Notably, alongside “The Quick and The Dead,” “Unforgiven” is considered one of Gene Hackman’s finest performances, and it frequently appears among the top western films of the decade, along with “Tombstone.

Sources: Rotten Tomatoes

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2025-05-03 21:10

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