Gunfight at the O.K. Corral (1957) Movie Review: A Classic Western Showdown
Introduction
“Gunfight at the O.K. Corral,” directed by John Sturges and released in 1957, stands as one of the most iconic Western films of its era. With a star-studded cast led by Burt Lancaster as Wyatt Earp and Kirk Douglas as Doc Holliday, this classic film brings to life the legendary gunfight that took place in Tombstone, Arizona, in 1881. While the movie takes some liberties with historical accuracy, it remains a quintessential Western that explores themes of justice, friendship, and the wild, lawless American frontier. In this review, we will delve into the film’s plot, performances, and its significance in the Western genre, as well as provide information on where to watch it online.
Plot Overview
“Gunfight at the O.K. Corral” is a dramatization of the events leading up to and including the infamous 30-second shootout between lawmen and outlaws in Tombstone. The story begins with Wyatt Earp (Burt Lancaster), a lawman known for his unyielding sense of justice, who becomes entangled in a personal and professional conflict in Tombstone. Earp is reluctantly drawn into a deadly feud with the Clanton-McLaury gang, a group of ruthless outlaws terrorizing the town.
Alongside Earp is Doc Holliday (Kirk Douglas), a skilled gunslinger and gambler suffering from tuberculosis. Despite his illness and reputation as a dangerous man, Holliday forms a close bond with Earp, and the two men become allies in their fight against the Clantons.
As tensions rise in Tombstone, the situation escalates to a deadly confrontation at the O.K. Corral. The film meticulously builds up to this climactic moment, showcasing the moral dilemmas and personal struggles of its protagonists. The final showdown is a gripping and intense sequence that has become one of the most famous scenes in Western cinema.
Performances
Burt Lancaster delivers a strong performance as Wyatt Earp, portraying the character with a stoic and commanding presence. Lancaster’s Earp is a man of few words, driven by a strict moral code and an unwavering commitment to justice. His portrayal captures the essence of the legendary lawman, making Earp both a heroic and complex figure.
Kirk Douglas, as Doc Holliday, is equally compelling. Douglas brings a charismatic and layered performance to the role, embodying Holliday’s reckless bravado and underlying vulnerability. The dynamic between Lancaster and Douglas is one of the film’s highlights, with their on-screen chemistry effectively conveying the deep, if unlikely, friendship between Earp and Holliday.
The supporting cast, including Rhonda Fleming as Laura Denbow, Earp’s love interest, and Jo Van Fleet as Kate Fisher, Holliday’s estranged lover, also deliver noteworthy performances. The villains of the film, led by Lyle Bettger as Ike Clanton, are convincingly menacing, providing formidable opponents for the protagonists.
Themes and Characterization
“Gunfight at the O.K. Corral” explores themes central to the Western genre, including justice, loyalty, and the conflict between law and chaos. The film delves into the motivations of its characters, particularly Earp and Holliday, who are portrayed as complex figures shaped by their past experiences and moral convictions.
Wyatt Earp is depicted as a man burdened by his role as a lawman, torn between his duty to uphold the law and his desire for personal peace. His relationship with Doc Holliday is pivotal to the film, as it highlights the contrast between Earp’s disciplined nature and Holliday’s more reckless, self-destructive tendencies. Despite their differences, the two men share a mutual respect and loyalty that transcends their personal flaws.
Doc Holliday, on the other hand, is portrayed as a tragic figure—a man who is both a brilliant marksman and a doomed outcast. His battle with tuberculosis adds a layer of poignancy to his character, making his involvement in the gunfight both heroic and tragic. The film presents Holliday as a man who has little to lose, making him an unpredictable and dangerous ally.
The theme of justice is central to the film, with Earp’s pursuit of law and order contrasting with the lawlessness of the Clanton gang. The gunfight itself is depicted not just as a battle for control of Tombstone, but as a larger struggle between civilization and the untamed wilderness of the American frontier.
Cinematography and Direction
John Sturges, known for his work in the Western genre, directs “Gunfight at the O.K. Corral” with a steady hand, balancing character development with action. The film’s pacing allows for a gradual build-up to the titular gunfight, giving the audience time to understand the stakes and the motivations of the characters involved.
The cinematography, by Charles Lang, captures the stark beauty of the Western landscape, with wide shots of the arid desert and the bustling town of Tombstone. The use of color and light adds to the film’s atmosphere, enhancing the tension as the story progresses toward its inevitable conclusion.
The climactic gunfight is choreographed with precision, making it a memorable and visually striking sequence. Sturges’s direction ensures that the tension remains high throughout the film, culminating in a final showdown that is both thrilling and emotionally charged.
Legacy and Impact
“Gunfight at the O.K. Corral” has left an indelible mark on the Western genre, influencing subsequent films and solidifying the O.K. Corral shootout as a legendary event in American folklore. The film’s portrayal of Wyatt Earp and Doc Holliday has become iconic, with Lancaster and Douglas’s performances widely regarded as definitive interpretations of these historical figures.
The film’s success at the box office and its critical acclaim helped to cement its status as a classic Western, and it remains a touchstone for fans of the genre. “Gunfight at the O.K. Corral” exemplifies the themes and motifs that define Western cinema, making it an essential viewing experience for anyone interested in the genre.
Where to Watch “Gunfight at the O.K. Corral” Online in the United States
For those interested in watching “Gunfight at the O.K. Corral,” here are some streaming and purchase options available in the United States:
1. Amazon Prime Video
- Availability: The film is available for rental or purchase on Amazon Prime Video.
- Rental Price: Approximately $3.99
- Purchase Price: Around $12.99
2. Apple iTunes
- Availability: “Gunfight at the O.K. Corral” can also be rented or purchased on Apple iTunes.
- Rental Price: Around $3.99
- Purchase Price: Approximately $12.99
3. Google Play Movies & TV
- Availability: The film is available for rental or purchase on Google Play Movies & TV.
- Rental Price: Roughly $2.99
- Purchase Price: Around $12.99
4. YouTube Movies
- Availability: The film is also available on YouTube Movies for rent or purchase.
- Rental Price: Approximately $2.99
- Purchase Price: Around $12.99
Conclusion
“Gunfight at the O.K. Corral” (1957) remains a quintessential Western that captures the essence of the genre. With its strong performances, particularly from Burt Lancaster and Kirk Douglas, and its expertly crafted narrative, the film stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of Westerns. The story of Wyatt Earp and Doc Holliday, brought to life through vivid cinematography and direction, continues to resonate with audiences, offering a timeless exploration of justice, friendship, and the rugged American frontier.
Whether you are a longtime fan of Westerns or a newcomer to the genre, “Gunfight at the O.K. Corral” is a must-watch film that offers a gripping and emotionally charged portrayal of one of the most legendary events in American history. With various streaming options available, it’s easier than ever to experience this classic piece of cinema.
