The Spiritual Wyatt Earp

Rating: 9/10 (19 February 2008)

"Hurts, don't it?" Those are the first words uttered by Wyatt Earp in Tombstone, an amazing rendering of the story of the Earp brothers, the O.K. Corral, and of the Cowboys on the Arizona frontier. Wyatt Earp and Doc Holliday, the main characters played by Kurt Russell and Val Kilmer respectively, are loyal friends. They have come to Tombstone separately to make their fortune, Earp with his two brothers, Morgan and Virgil, Holliday with his companion Kate. The Earp brothers attempt to live a quiet life, not getting involved in the lawlessness of Tombstone. Yet, the increasing violence pulls at Virgil and Morgan Earp who both agree to be town marshals. Wyatt at first resists the pull of the law, but his loyalty to his brothers win out before the gunfight at the O.K. Corral. Loyalty motives Doc Holliday, as well. In a memorable conversation with Turkey Creek Jack John, Holliday reveals the depth of his feelings: "Turkey Creek Jack Johnson: Why you doing this, Doc? Doc Holliday: Because Wyatt Earp is my friend. Turkey Creek Jack Johnson: Friend? Hell, I got lots of friends. Doc Holliday: ...I don't." In the Old West, a man could not count on much; a true friend may be the difference between life and an early death. Earp benefits from his friends as he rides to end the reign of the Cowboys following the death of his brother, Morgan. There are deep spiritual truths within Tombstone. As mentioned above, friendship and loyalty are highly valued in this film, even by the "bad guys." The Cowboys back up each other's actions, just like the Earp brothers and Doc Holliday. Another is the difference between revenge and a reckoning. "Sherman McMasters: If they were my brothers, I'd want revenge, too. Doc Holliday: Oh, make no mistake. It's not revenge he's after. It's a reckoning." What does Holliday mean by this? How does he differentiate between revenge and the Old Testament idea of a reckoning? The Cowboys have certainly done some horrific things. They had created a hell for the people of Tombstone; Wyatt Earp put an end to that. Yet, it was not until Morgan was killed and Virgil was maimed that Wyatt took decisive action. This would certainly put his actions into the revenge category. Personally, I think there is more weight for the revenge argument, but the Cowboys were not innocent. Wyatt did not have crystal clear motives, but his actions are justified. I loved this movie and enjoy watching it over and over! Full of great lines and interesting characters!