10 Criminally Underrated Westerns You Must See Before You Die

4. Tombstone

The early nineties saw two films based on the life of renowned gunman Wyatt Earp; Tombstone, which starred Kurt Russell in the title role, and Wyatt Earp, which was helmed by Kevin Costner. One fell afoul of both critics and the box office, while the other suffered the wrath of just one.

Tellingly enough, Tombstone and Wyatt Earp were originally part of the same project. Costner was heavily involved in production on the former project, written by Glory's Kevin Jarre, but felt that the script focussed too much on Earp's supporting cast - hence his decision to make an Earp movie of its own.

For those who've seen both features, the difference is obvious. While Costner's film was immaculately cast, it was boring, uneven and lethargic. Tombstone, on the other hand, benefited from Jarre's script, and exhibited a pace befitting of the drama surrounding the Gunfight at the O.K. Corral and the subsequent Earp Vendetta Ride. It was a box office success, but it's fair to say that critics overlooked some of the film's most compelling features, including Val Kilmer's portrayal of Doc Holliday, an alcoholic gunman suffering from tuberculosis.

Kilmer gives the performance of his life in the role, but was still snubbed during awards season the following year. The fact he didn't even get a nomination is even more frustrating, but that shouldn't stop anyone from enjoying his performance today.