Kilmer shines (SPOILERS, PERHAPS)

Rating: Null/10 (28 August 2004)

Well, our friend Val Kilmer comes on strong in this gem of an entertaining western. Even though this story is centered on the Earp brothers, the character of Doc Holliday played by Kilmer is the most intriguing. His make-up is convincing and you have no doubt that this man is a "lunger" as his adversary Ringo calls him. Actually, Kilmer portrays a very horrible killer but you look up to him as a lovable light-hearted hero in this movie.
His character is like Mike Tyson in many ways; you resent the personality, crimes and mistakes but you cheer for him and want to see him destroy his adversary. You would want this guy protecting your butt, but would not want him marrying your daughter. The most memorable lines for me are when Holliday challenges Ringo after Ringo challenges Wyatt Earp. "I'm your huckleberry...just say when...".
You see, in the Old West days, there were gunslingers who were simply masters at quick draw shooting. In those days, it was fair game to challenge to a gun battle anyone who carried a firearm. Even though Wyatt Earp was a ruthless lawman, he did not have a chance in heaven at defeating Ringo. But Holliday WAS a legendary gunslinger just like Ringo and Ringo respected and feared Holliday's skills. With that being said, you must hold on to your seat as the story moves to an exciting scene with an inevitable confrontation. Val Kilmer is a brilliant performer. (and I haven't even seen The Doors yet)