Kurt Russell’s Tombstone: A Western Classic That Redefines Genre Norms
Introduction
Kurt Russell’s portrayal of Wyatt Earp in the 1993 film Tombstone has cemented its status as a classic Western. Directed by Kevin Costner, the film is set in Tombstone, Arizona, during the late 19th century and follows the real-life events surrounding the Earp brothers and their involvement in the famous Earp Vendetta Ride. This article aims to analyze Tombstone as a Western film, discussing its adherence to genre norms, its deviations from traditional Western tropes, and its impact on the genre as a whole.
Adherence to Genre Norms
As a Western, Tombstone follows several genre norms that are characteristic of the genre. These include the portrayal of the frontier as a lawless and wild place, the presence of a heroic protagonist, and the use of a moral code that emphasizes justice and honor. The film’s setting in Tombstone, a real historical town, adds authenticity to the narrative and reinforces the genre’s association with the American frontier.
Frontier as a Lawless Place
The film opens with the portrayal of Tombstone as a lawless town, where outlaws and gunslingers roam freely. This is a classic Western trope that has been used in countless films to establish the setting and the stakes. The Earp brothers, led by Wyatt, are depicted as lawmen who are determined to bring order to the town. This adherence to the genre norm of the frontier as a lawless place is a cornerstone of Tombstone.\
Heroic Protagonist
Wyatt Earp is the film’s heroic protagonist, embodying the traditional Western hero. He is portrayed as a man of strong moral principles, who is willing to use violence to uphold the law. Russell’s performance as Wyatt is key to the film’s success, as he brings a sense of gravitas and authority to the role. The character’s development throughout the film, from a lawman to a man who becomes a target of the outlaws, is a classic journey for a Western hero.
Moral Code
Tombstone adheres to the genre’s moral code, which emphasizes justice and honor. The film’s climax, the Gunfight at the O.K. Corral, is a testament to this moral code, as the Earp brothers stand their ground against the outlaws, fighting for what they believe in. The film’s conclusion leaves the audience with a sense of closure, as justice is ultimately served.
Deviations from Traditional Western Tropes
While Tombstone adheres to many genre norms, it also deviates from traditional Western tropes in several significant ways.
Complex Characters
One of the most notable deviations is the complexity of the characters. The film does not shy away from portraying the characters in a nuanced manner, with their flaws and virtues. This complexity extends to the antagonists as well, such as Johnny Ringo, played by Val Kilmer. The film’s portrayal of Ringo as a tragic figure who is as much a victim of his circumstances as a villain is a stark contrast to the one-dimensional villains often found in Westerns.
Gender Roles
Tombstone also challenges traditional gender roles by giving significant roles to female characters. Val Kilmer’s character, Doc Holliday, is a central figure in the film, and his relationship with Wyatt Earp is a key element of the narrative. The film’s portrayal of Holliday as a man who is as capable of violence as any of the male characters challenges the notion that women are secondary to men in Westerns.
Impact on the Genre
Tombstone has had a significant impact on the Western genre. Its adherence to genre norms while also challenging traditional tropes has influenced a new wave of Western films that have emerged in the years since its release.
Influence on Other Filmmakers
The success of Tombstone has inspired other filmmakers to explore the Western genre in new ways. For example, the 2003 film The Three Burials of Melquiades Estrada, directed by Tommy Lee Jones, is a modern Western that draws inspiration from Tombstone in its exploration of complex characters and moral dilemmas.
Genre Evolution
Tombstone has contributed to the evolution of the Western genre by pushing the boundaries of what is considered acceptable within the genre. It has shown that Westerns can be more than just action films; they can be character-driven narratives that explore deeper themes.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Tombstone is a Western film that both adheres to and challenges genre norms. Its adherence to the traditional Western tropes of the lawless frontier, the heroic protagonist, and the moral code of justice and honor is a testament to its status as a classic. However, its deviations from traditional gender roles and its complex characters have also made it a groundbreaking film within the genre. Tombstone has had a lasting impact on the Western genre, influencing filmmakers and contributing to its evolution. As such, it remains an important and relevant film in the annals of cinema history.
