Val Kilmer’s 5 Best Movies
Val Kilmer gave us so many great movies. From playing a memorable Batman to bringing the Gunfight at the O.K. Corral to life, he had quite the career. Here are his five best films.
1. ‘Top Gun’ (1986)
In Top Gun, Val Kilmer plays Iceman, the skilled and competitive fighter pilot who challenges Tom Cruise’s Maverick. Kilmer’s cool and calculated performance as Iceman became an iconic part of the film. His rivalry with Maverick creates tension throughout the story, making their eventual teamwork all the more satisfying. Top Gun remains a classic in 1980s cinema, with Kilmer’s portrayal of Iceman still standing out as one of his most memorable roles. This film launched Kilmer into stardom, and his performance solidified him as a key figure in Hollywood during that era. Box Office Mojo reports the film earned $357 million, a huge haul at that time.
2. ‘Batman Forever’ (1995)
In Batman Forever, Val Kilmer takes on the iconic role of Bruce Wayne/Batman. His performance offers a more humanized, vulnerable version of the superhero. Unlike the darker, brooding portrayals of the character, Kilmer’s Batman is conflicted, trying to balance his hero persona with his personal life. The film itself is known for its colorful tone and quirky villains, played by Jim Carrey and Tommy Lee Jones. Kilmer’s portrayal of Batman remains a standout despite the film’s mixed reviews, earning him recognition for bringing a different, more emotionally accessible side to the character.
3. ‘The Doors’ (1991)
Val Kilmer’s portrayal of Jim Morrison in The Doors is one of his most acclaimed performances. He fully embodied the wild, charismatic rock icon, capturing Morrison’s charisma, creativity, and struggles with fame and addiction. Kilmer’s dedication to the role is clear; he not only studied Morrison’s life but also learned to sing like him. The Doors is a powerful biographical drama that allowed Kilmer to showcase his talent as both an actor and a singer. His performance earned him widespread praise, and the film remains a defining moment in his career.
4. ‘Tombstone’ (1993)
In Tombstone, Val Kilmer plays the legendary gunfighter Doc Holliday. Kilmer’s portrayal of the witty, unpredictable Holliday became one of the film’s highlights. His chemistry with Kurt Russell, who plays Wyatt Earp, is electric, and his delivery of iconic lines like “I’m your huckleberry” became unforgettable. Kilmer brings depth to a character who is both charming and tragic. His performance is often considered one of the best in Western film, making Tombstone a cult classic and proving Kilmer’s skill at playing complex, memorable characters.
5. ‘Heat’ (1995)
In Heat, Val Kilmer plays Chris Shiherlis, a criminal caught in the world of heists and betrayals. His performance is nuanced and emotional, showing the struggles of a man torn between loyalty to his criminal crew and his desire for a better life.
The film, directed by Michael Mann, features an all-star cast, including Robert De Niro and Al Pacino. Kilmer’s portrayal stands out as a pivotal role in the film, adding depth to the intense drama. Heat remains one of the most highly regarded crime films of the 1990s, and Kilmer’s role is essential to its success.
