Kurt Russell's Wyatt Earp in Tombstone is celebrated but during production he had worries about box office competition from another Wyatt Earp movie. In a Hollywood occurrence known as "twin movies " two similar projects often emerge around same time. This happened with western biopics Tombstone and Wyatt Earp both centered on famous lawman. Despite Wyatt Earp appearing to have upper hand with larger budget and studio support Tombstone surprisingly outperformed it. Russell concerned about Kevin Costner's Wyatt Earp overshadowing Tombstone ultimately found his film achieving greater success and lasting appeal.
Kurt Russell's Concerns About Tombstone's Box Office Performance
Both Tombstone and Wyatt Earp were being filmed concurrently. While Russell and team filmed Tombstone in Arizona Costner and crew shot Wyatt Earp in New Mexico. Sam Elliott portraying Virgil Earp in Tombstone revealed Russell's anxieties about this competition as reported by Entertainment Weekly. Elliott stated he personally was not concerned about Costner's movie but Russell remained "angst-ridden" throughout shoot regarding potential box office face-off between two westerns.
Elliott reassured Russell emphasizing Wyatt Earp had more financial backing but confidently stated "They haven’t got this fking script and they haven’t got this fking cast." Russell worried only one Earp movie could become a hit fearing Wyatt Earp would eclipse Tombstone. However Elliott’s confidence proved accurate. The superior film ultimately prevailed.
Tombstone's Surprising Box Office Victory Over Wyatt Earp
Russell’s apprehension proved unfounded. Tombstone surpassed Wyatt Earp both critically and commercially. Tombstone received widespread praise while Wyatt Earp faced negative reviews. Wyatt Earp struggled at box office earning $25 million domestically while Tombstone more than doubled that amassing $56 million worldwide. Tombstone benefited from smaller budget almost half the size of Wyatt Earp. Also Tombstone's earlier release by six months gave it advantage audiences may have experienced "Earp fatigue" by time Wyatt Earp arrived.
Tombstone is praised for portraying Old West figures with depth. CBR.com notes Tombstone effectively introduces Kurt Russell's Wyatt Earp showing complexities of famous gunslinger. Film shows both admirable and less heroic qualities exploring what it meant to be lawman in lawless era. Tombstone depicts Wyatt Earp attempting new life in Arizona after leaving his marshal role but inevitably drawn into conflict with Cowboys gang.
Initially in Tombstone Wyatt Earp appears reluctant to embrace violence. He initially uses words and slaps to control situations. However this aversion changes as Cowboys create chaos. CBR.com points out this depiction presents nuanced morally complex version of Wyatt Earp contrasting romanticized heroic portrayals. Wyatt Earp's internal conflict between peaceful intentions and inevitable violence becomes central theme.
Kurt Russell's Unofficial Role as Tombstone's Director
Beyond box office success Tombstone has interesting behind-the-scenes story regarding direction. Comicbook.com suggests Kurt Russell was essentially uncredited director of Tombstone. While George P. Cosmatos is officially credited director some argue Russell heavily influenced film's creation. Original director Kevin Jarre was replaced month into filming. Cosmatos then took over but reports indicate Russell significantly contributed to directing process.
Comicbook.com mentions Michael Biehn stated Cosmatos "had no understanding or appreciation of the screenplay." During production Russell reportedly streamlined script focusing on Wyatt Earp and Doc Holliday dynamic. Russell himself described Cosmatos as "ghost director" implying his own greater involvement. Val Kilmer agreed Russell "essentially" directed Tombstone though some like Biehn say Cosmatos directed him. Despite differing accounts consensus points to Russell playing key role in shaping Tombstone.
Russell acknowledged his significant role in Tombstone's creation but avoided taking official directing credit. He told Rolling Stone "Tombstone will always remain mystery" due to promise made. He highlighted contributions of "fantastic actors" and writer praising "best Western dialogue ever." Russell concluded "If I had not been around Tombstone wouldn’t have either" hinting at his crucial involvement in bringing film to fruition.
Our Take On Kurt Russell's Tombstone Legacy
Tombstone’s enduring popularity over 30 years after release proves its quality. Movieweb.com notes Tombstone's blend of historical accuracy and cinematic excitement contributed to its lasting appeal. Film's strong box office performance initially and later home video success solidified its classic status. Kurt Russell and Val Kilmer's chemistry is frequently cited as highlight with Kilmer’s Doc Holliday becoming iconic. Movieweb.com emphasizes Tombstone's ability to deliver spectacle while maintaining historical integrity. Film continues to gain new viewers through streaming platforms like Tubi.
Ultimately Tombstone stands as testament to unexpected triumph. Kurt Russell’s initial worries about Wyatt Earp competition were misplaced. Tombstone not only outshone its rival but also solidified its place as beloved western and showcased Kurt Russell's talent both in front and possibly behind camera.