Kevin Costner’s film Wyatt Earp, originally released in 1994, has made an unexpected resurgence as a popular title on Netflix. After a disappointing box office performance where it grossed just $55.9 million against a budget of $63 million, the film now ranks as the eighth most popular movie on the platform in the United States as of February 2, 2024.
Released during the summer of 1994, Wyatt Earp portrays the life of the legendary lawman, with Costner in the lead role. Directed by Lawrence Kasdan, the film follows Earp’s journey from his early days through his career as a marshal, culminating in his involvement in the infamous O.K. Corral gunfight. The movie features a notable ensemble cast including Dennis Quaid as Doc Holliday, Gene Hackman, and Isabella Rossellini, among others.
From Box Office Disappointment to Streaming Success
Despite its star-studded cast and ambitious storytelling, Wyatt Earp received mixed reviews upon release, achieving a mere 31% rating on Rotten Tomatoes from critics. Many cited its sprawling narrative as a weakness, although audiences rated it significantly higher, with a score of 61%. This disparity reflects a broader appreciation for the film’s direction and performances, even if critics found it challenging to endorse fully.
The renewed interest in Wyatt Earp comes at a time when Costner’s association with Westerns is undergoing a shift. Following his departure from the hit series Yellowstone in 2024, the future of his upcoming film series, Horizon: An American Saga, remains uncertain. Nevertheless, he is actively producing a new Civil War miniseries titled The Gray House, which is set to debut on Prime Video on February 26, 2024.
A Tale of Two Films
The release of Wyatt Earp coincided with another film about the same historical figure: Tombstone. Released just six months earlier in December 1993, Tombstone achieved commercial success and is now regarded as one of the best Westerns of all time. The contrasting fates of these two films highlight the unpredictable nature of the film industry, where even high-profile projects can falter despite strong historical narratives and talented casts.
As Costner’s film continues to climb Netflix’s rankings, it serves as a reminder of the cyclical nature of cinematic appreciation. Films that may have struggled in theaters can find new life in the streaming era, reaching audiences who may have missed them upon their initial release. With its current popularity, Wyatt Earp may finally be receiving the recognition it struggled to gain decades ago.
This resurgence underscores the evolving landscape of film consumption and the potential for older titles to gain traction on platforms like Netflix, highlighting how viewer preferences can shift over time.
