The exact number is surprisingly complex, but focusing on films primarily centered around Wyatt Earp’s life and career, particularly his involvement in the Gunfight at the O.K. Corral, we can identify at least eleven significant feature films. This count excludes documentaries, television movies where Earp is a minor character, and episodes of TV series.
The Earp Filmography: More Than Meets the Eye
The legendary lawman Wyatt Earp, a figure synonymous with the Wild West, has captivated audiences for decades. His story, particularly the infamous Gunfight at the O.K. Corral, has been retold numerous times on the big screen. However, determining the definitive number of “Wyatt Earp movies” isn’t as straightforward as it seems.
We must differentiate between films where Earp is the central protagonist and those where he’s merely a supporting character. Furthermore, we need to decide on the inclusion of highly fictionalized accounts versus more historically grounded portrayals. This article focuses on major cinematic releases where Wyatt Earp is a central figure.
Wyatt Earp Movies: Key Titles and Their Legacy
Here’s a breakdown of some of the most notable Wyatt Earp movies, which form the basis of our “eleven” figure:
- “Frontier Marshal” (1934): One of the earliest and, admittedly, loose adaptations of the Earp saga, starring George O’Brien as a character inspired by Earp.
- “My Darling Clementine” (1946): John Ford’s classic Western, featuring Henry Fonda as Wyatt Earp. This film significantly shaped the popular image of Earp.
- “Wichita” (1955): Joel McCrea portrays a fictionalized Earp who tames the lawless town of Wichita, Kansas.
- “Gunfight at the O.K. Corral” (1957): Burt Lancaster stars as Earp alongside Kirk Douglas as Doc Holliday in this iconic and highly influential depiction of the shootout.
- “Hour of the Gun” (1967): James Garner stars as Earp in this more realistic and less romanticized portrayal of the aftermath of the Gunfight at the O.K. Corral.
- “Doc” (1971): Stacy Keach stars as Doc Holliday, but Harris Yulin’s depiction of Earp is significant.
- “Tombstone” (1993): Kurt Russell’s portrayal of Earp in this action-packed and quotable film revived interest in the Earp legend.
- “Wyatt Earp” (1994): Kevin Costner’s epic and historically ambitious, though lengthy, biopic covers Earp’s entire life.
- “Wyatt Earp: Return to Tombstone” (1994): A re-edited version of the Kevin Costner film, with some scenes added to increase focus on his return to Tombstone to hunt down Curly Bill Brocious.
- “Wyatt Earp’s Revenge” (2012): Val Kilmer plays a supporting role while Trace Adkins stars as Wyatt Earp in this direct-to-video Western.
- “Dead Again in Tombstone” (2017): While not solely focused on Earp, this film features him significantly within the framework of a supernatural Western.
It’s important to acknowledge that the quality and historical accuracy of these films vary greatly. Some are considered classics, while others are less critically acclaimed. Nevertheless, they all contribute to the enduring fascination with Wyatt Earp and his legendary status.
FAQs: Unpacking the Wyatt Earp Myth
This section addresses common questions about Wyatt Earp and his cinematic representations, providing a deeper understanding of the legend and the films that perpetuate it.
What makes Wyatt Earp such a compelling figure for filmmakers?
Wyatt Earp embodies the classic Wild West hero – a lawman striving to bring order to a chaotic frontier. His story is filled with action, drama, and moral ambiguity, providing fertile ground for filmmakers to explore themes of justice, loyalty, and the cost of violence. Furthermore, the Gunfight at the O.K. Corral provides a ready-made, dramatic centerpiece for any Earp narrative.
Which Wyatt Earp movie is considered the most historically accurate?
No Wyatt Earp movie is entirely historically accurate. “Hour of the Gun” (1967) is often praised for its more realistic portrayal of the events following the Gunfight at the O.K. Corral, avoiding some of the romanticized tropes of other Westerns. The 1994 “Wyatt Earp” starring Kevin Costner also attempted a more comprehensive and historically grounded approach, though its length often draws criticism. Ultimately, viewers should approach all these films as interpretations, not documentaries.
What are the biggest inaccuracies typically found in Wyatt Earp movies?
Common inaccuracies include exaggerating the scale of the Gunfight at the O.K. Corral, simplifying the complex motivations of the involved parties, romanticizing the characters of Earp and Doc Holliday, and downplaying the controversial aspects of Earp’s career. Many films also take liberties with the timelines and relationships of historical figures.
Why is the Gunfight at the O.K. Corral so central to the Wyatt Earp legend?
The Gunfight at the O.K. Corral is a pivotal moment in American history and popular culture. It represents a clash between law and lawlessness, order and chaos, in the context of the Wild West. The event has become a symbol of frontier justice and the romanticized ideals of the American West.
Who are some of the actors who have portrayed Wyatt Earp on screen?
Numerous actors have portrayed Wyatt Earp, including George O’Brien, Henry Fonda, Joel McCrea, Burt Lancaster, James Garner, Harris Yulin, Kurt Russell, Kevin Costner, Trace Adkins, and Kevin Sorbo (in television). Each actor brings their own interpretation to the role, contributing to the diverse range of portrayals of Earp on screen.
What’s the difference between “Tombstone” and “Wyatt Earp” (1994)?
“Tombstone” (1993), starring Kurt Russell, is a more action-oriented and entertaining film that focuses primarily on the events surrounding the Gunfight at the O.K. Corral and its aftermath. “Wyatt Earp” (1994), starring Kevin Costner, is a much longer and more ambitious biopic that attempts to cover Earp’s entire life, from his childhood to his later years. “Tombstone” is generally considered more popular and rewatchable, while “Wyatt Earp” is praised for its greater historical scope.
Why did Kevin Costner make “Wyatt Earp” so soon after “Tombstone”?
The production of “Wyatt Earp” faced numerous hurdles, including script changes and director shuffles. Initially, Kevin Costner was attached to star in “Tombstone,” but creative differences led him to leave the project and pursue his own version of the Earp story. The competing productions resulted in the release of two major Wyatt Earp films in quick succession.
Are there any documentaries about Wyatt Earp?
Yes, several documentaries explore the life and legend of Wyatt Earp. These documentaries often feature historians, archival footage, and interviews to provide a more nuanced and factual account of Earp’s life than fictionalized films. These can be found on streaming services and through historical societies.
How did the television series “The Life and Legend of Wyatt Earp” impact Earp’s image?
The television series “The Life and Legend of Wyatt Earp,” which ran from 1955 to 1961, starring Hugh O’Brian, significantly shaped the public perception of Earp as a noble and heroic lawman. The series presented a largely idealized version of Earp’s life, which influenced subsequent portrayals in film and popular culture. This clean image helped solidify Earp’s status as a Western icon.
What other figures from the O.K. Corral are frequently depicted in these movies?
Beyond Wyatt Earp, the most commonly featured figures are Doc Holliday, Virgil Earp, and Morgan Earp. Doc Holliday, often portrayed as a complex and charismatic figure, is a frequent co-star in Earp narratives. Virgil and Morgan Earp, Wyatt’s brothers, are typically depicted as loyal deputies involved in the Gunfight at the O.K. Corral. The Clanton gang is also prominently featured as the antagonists.
Why do some people criticize Wyatt Earp’s legacy?
While often portrayed as a hero, Wyatt Earp’s legacy is complex and controversial. Critics point to his involvement in questionable business dealings, his violent tendencies, and his participation in the “Earp Vendetta Ride” after the Gunfight at the O.K. Corral, during which several men were killed. These aspects of his life challenge the romanticized image often presented in films.
Where can I find and watch these Wyatt Earp movies?
Many of the Wyatt Earp movies mentioned in this article are available for streaming on various platforms, including Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, and Criterion Channel. They can also be rented or purchased on digital platforms such as Apple TV and Google Play Movies. Check your local library for DVD copies as well.