Tombstoneis widely believed to be among thebest Westerns of the 1990s, with its inspired storytelling and innovative filmmaking helping it to forge a strong legacy for itself that breaks free of the genre’s many constraints.The film was released at a time when Westerns were steadily decreasing in popularity, butTombstonemanaged to get audiences back on the genre’s side with a gripping true story about friendship, violence, and revenge.
Much ofTombstone’s narrative follows the infamous Doc Holliday, a renowned lawman who helped his friend Wyatt Earp during their well-known cleansing of the Cowboy gang in the Wild West.The film follows the pair as they seek vengeance for Earp’s brotherand protect the citizens of Tombstone, Arizona from the lawlessness on their doorsteps.Val Kilmer’s portrayal of Doc Hollidayis the best part of the film, and there are several details that connect him to the real-life lawman he’s based on.
“Lunger” Is A Reference To Doc Holliday Having Tuberculosis In Tombstone
The Character Is Terminally Sick In Tombstone
ThroughoutTombstone, Holliday is referred to as “lunger” by the other residents of the town, which is intended as a reference to his debilitating illness. The character’s tuberculosis plays a large role in the story, as he’s frequently seen coughing and struggling, which makes him appear weak in the eyes of both his enemies and his friends. He’s a perfect example ofa character with strong values and ideologiesbut without the physical strength to apply them, which is part of the figure’s tragedy.
10 Best Scenes In Tombstone
Val Kilmer’s Tombstone is a classic Western movie for a reason, and while there are countless timeless scenes in the film, these 10 are the best.
Holliday’s sickness comes into play again inTombstone’sending, as he overcomes his physical weakness to take Earp’s place in the duel against Johnny Ringo. This speaks volumes to Holliday’s character and pushes home the film’s central message of persistence in the face of adversity and unwavering loyalty to one’s friends.
Doc Holliday’s Illness Is Also Why He Sweats & Coughs
The Sickness Takes A Physical Toll On Holliday
Doc Holliday is often seen sweating inTombstone, which is a clear way of communicating his sickness to the audience. The film does a great job of characterizing its figures without words:Holliday’s illness makes him appear frail, Earp’s body language betrays his anger and violent tendencies, and Ringo’s attitude is always one of arrogance and pride.
This is exactly what makesTombstoneso engaging - there are elements of the characters that exist beyond the words on the page, and it makes them feel much more well-rounded as a result.
This is exactly what makesTombstoneso engaging - there are elements of the characters that exist beyond the words on the page, and it makes them feel much more well-rounded as a result. Holliday is perhaps the best example of this, as his sickness gives him another dimension of empathy and relatability, but it never prevents him from being the coolest character on the screen.
Tombstone
Cast
Tombstone chronicles legendary marshal Wyatt Earp and his brothers as they seek fortune in a prosperous mining town. Forced to confront a gang threatening the community, Earp joins forces with the infamous Doc Holliday, highlighting a tense battle between lawmen and outlaws in the American West.
