Kurt Russell’s Western Films Evaluated
By Jeremy Smith
The 1970s marked a tumultuous time for the United States, and Hollywood was no exception. With the grim realities of the Vietnam War in the backdrop and the political turmoil of Richard Nixon’s administration, filmmakers began to craft narratives that resonated with the disillusionment of the era. Iconic works like “The Godfather,” “Serpico,” and “Nashville” emerged, while even lighter fare like “The Bad News Bears” carried an undercurrent of anti-establishment sentiments. John Wayne, the epitome of the American western hero, found himself out of favor as he battled cancer, highlighting a shift away from his manly archetype. As he faded from the scene, the Western genre faced an uncertain future.
In this context, Kurt Russell found himself at a crossroads. The once Disney child star had matured into a striking figure capable of shaping the Western hero archetype during his prime. Unfortunately, the Western genre itself seemed to stall just as he was poised to step into it. However, Russell swiftly transitioned to adult roles, demonstrating his acting chops in “Elvis” and showcasing his tough-guy credentials in “Escape from New York.” It wasn’t until 1993’s “Tombstone” that he finally stepped into the Western spotlight, channeling Wyatt Earp with natural ease. Since then, Russell has only officially starred in three Western films, each evoking strong reactions among viewers. Here’s how they stack up.
3. Bone Tomahawk
In S. Craig Zahler’s debut, “Bone Tomahawk,” the film attempts an audacious blend of Western and horror, drawing inspiration from John Ford’s “The Searchers.” However, despite the potential for greatness, Zahler’s inexperience is evident in the film’s pacing and staging. Russell stands out, embodying a sheriff on a mission to rescue a kidnapped woman from a mutant tribe known as “troglodytes.” Unfortunately, the film’s commentary falls flat, veering towards a poorly handled depiction of its themes. While opinions on this film vary widely, it’s hard not to feel that Russell deserves a more polished vehicle to showcase his talents.
2. Tombstone
While “Tombstone” may not be the utmost pinnacle of Western cinema, it delivers an undeniably entertaining experience. Written by Kevin Jarre, the film attempts to provide a semi-factual recounting of Wyatt Earp’s life. However, it evolves into an action-packed spectacle thanks to a strong supporting cast featuring Val Kilmer, Sam Elliott, and Powers Booth. Russell serves as the film’s anchor, delivering memorable lines while allowing his co-stars to shine. Despite the tumultuous production, where Russell’s personality shines through, he embraces the role with a swagger reminiscent of the great John Wayne. While the film may lack depth, it provides a fun and engaging ride for its audience.
- The Hateful Eight
Quentin Tarantino’s “The Hateful Eight” positions Russell as John “The Hangman” Ruth, a bounty hunter caught in a snowstorm with an eclectic group of characters. This film drips with tension and could easily translate to a stage adaptation, although its length poses challenges in both formats. Russell commands attention, effectively portraying a character shrouded in the guise of righteousness while engaging in morally questionable actions. This film serves as a homage to the Western genre’s legacy while reinterpreting themes of justice and violence. The longer miniseries cut available on Netflix offers an enhanced experience for those seeking the richness of Russell’s performance, showcasing a nuanced portrayal that evokes the spirit of a bygone cinematic era.
In summary, Kurt Russell’s contributions to the Western genre, despite being limited in number, provide a compelling exploration of character and storytelling in this classic American tradition.
