5 Classic Val Kilmer Films To Stream In Celebration Of His Life And Career
To commemorate the recent passing of the charismatic and iconic Val Kilmer, we’re looking back on some of his most memorable film roles from cowboy to rockstar, super-hero, fighter pilot and beyond. You can relive his most magical silver screen moments on the major streaming platforms linked below.
Top Gun (1986)
There would be no “Maverick” without “Iceman”, and Kilmer’s role as Tom Cruise’s main rival in Top Gun provided a critical foil that highlighted their respective differences in style and personality. When that tension and competition gave forth to respect and collaboration, the film was able to give viewers that emotional taste of what teamwork really means in the military.
Tombstone (1993)
As Doc Holliday, Kilmer pulled off one of the best mustaches a Western has ever seen and brought that old Hollywood movie star style into the 90s. The push and pull between charming gunslinger and consumptive gambler created a role to which he brought so much depth.
The Doors (1991)
Kilmer showed us another side to his acting chops in his portrayal of Doors front man, Jim Morrison, embracing the unpredictable and self-destructive facets of life as a musician. Directed by Oliver Stone, the film was met with mixed reviews, but Kilmer was consistently praised for his performance in which he did most of the singing himself.
Heat (1995)
Continuing a string of action roles, Kilmer played Chris Shiherlis, a member of Robert De Niro’s heist crew and getaway driver. His performance balanced the character’s emotional backstory and calmness under pressure, with his shootout scenes becoming standout moments in the ensemble film which also included Al Pacino, Tom Sizemore, and Jon Voight.
Batman Forever (1995)
Donning the iconic black mask and cape, Kilmer stepped into the pantheon of Hollywood superhero legends in this installment of the Batman saga, which also featured Jim Carrey as The Riddler, Tommy Lee Jones as Two-Face, and Nicole Kidman as love interest Dr. Chase Meridian. Its box office success surpassed Jurassic Park‘s record for highest opening weekend.