Watch Hour of the Gun

Based on a true story, Hour of the Gun is an intense western drama directed by John Sturges, released in 1967. The iconic James Garner plays the role of the fearless and determined Wyatt Earp while Jason Robards stars as his infamous sidekick, Doc Holliday. Robert Ryan delivers yet another brilliant performance as Ike Clanton, the leader of the gang that caused the famous shootout at the O.K. Corral.

Hour of the Gun follows the events that took place in Tombstone, Arizona, in the late 1800s. After killing a group of outlaws, including the ruthless Johnny Ringo, Earp and his brothers discover that their troubles are far from over. Powerful local rancher, Ike Clanton, seeks revenge for the losses his gang suffered and targets the Earp brothers. With tensions escalating, Wyatt Earp and Doc Holliday refuse to back down, leading to the infamous showdown at the O.K. Corral.

However, Hour of the Gun is not your typical western film as it primarily focuses on the aftermath of the gunfight. The movie explores the political corruption and personal vendettas that dominated Tombstone, resulting in a gripping and gritty tale. The story delves deep into the harrowing events that followed the shootout, revealing the complex and often treacherous players involved in the power struggle.

One of the film's most notable aspects is the compelling character development. The performances from the lead actors are exceptional, particularly Garner and Robards, whose conflicting personalities add great depth and nuance to the story. Garner's portrayal of Wyatt Earp is particularly striking, showcasing the legendary lawman's unwavering conviction and determination to make things right. Robards' portrayal of the alcoholic Doc Holliday, infuses the story with a romantically tragic presence that keeps drawing the audience's attention.

Director John Sturges masterfully balances intense action scenes with quiet moments, allowing the tension between the characters to simmer and slowly boil over. The film's climax is particularly notable as it showcases the inevitable consequences of unchecked power and revenge. As the Earp brothers and the Clanton gang face each other in a final showdown, the violence on display is both thrilling and heart-wrenching.

The cinematography of the film is breathtaking, showing off the film's gorgeous American Southwest locale. The sweeping vistas of the desert and the rocky terrain provide a beautiful backdrop that contrasts sharply with the chaos and violence that takes place onscreen. Overall, Hour of the Gun serves as both stunning visual feast and a gripping tale of morality, politics and justice.

While it may not be as well-known as some other western films of the era, Hour of the Gun is definitely one to watch for fans of the genre. The film offers a refreshing take on the iconic Earp-Holliday rivalry and delivers a tense and gripping story that keeps the audience hooked until the very end. The combination of the star-studded cast, high-stakes drama, and breathtaking visuals make it a fantastic film that is deserving of a wider audience.

In conclusion, Hour of the Gun is a classic western that deserves more recognition than it currently receives. James Garner and Jason Robards lead a talented cast in a story that is both gripping and complex. Director John Sturges masterfully balances quiet moments with thrilling action, crafting a film that is both visually stunning and deeply engaging. For collectors of classic westerns or those looking for a new take on a familiar story, Hour of the Gun is definitely worth watching.

Hour of the Gun is a 1967 western with a runtime of 1 hour and 40 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.6 and a MetaScore of 68.