Val Kilmer has established one of the most versatile careers of any actor from his generation, making a remarkable entrance into the spotlight in the early 1980s. With an intense on-screen magnetism, Kilmer showcases an extraordinary ability to channel his talent across various genres, seamlessly transitioning from broad comedies to serious action films and compelling biopics. This unique facet of his artistry captivates audiences, as he embodies characters with depth and authenticity, making each performance memorable.
Moreover, Kilmer possesses an enigmatic quality that sets him apart from many actors; viewers never feel they fully grasp his essence. Instead, there always seems to be something more to uncover, an intriguing layer that compels audiences to revisit his performances repeatedly. This elusive charm is precisely what makes Kilmer’s work so engaging and enduring in the cinematic landscape.
Beginning his career at the young age of 17, Kilmer achieved the remarkable distinction of being the youngest student ever accepted into the prestigious Juilliard School for Drama. His early training propelled him quickly through the theater and into film, and by the early 1990s, he had emerged as one of Hollywood’s leading figures. Despite this success, Kilmer chose to sidestep the typical Hollywood lifestyle, opting instead for a quieter existence on a ranch in New Mexico. Here, he dedicated himself to his craft, creating self-produced audition tapes for directors and producers he admired. As his career evolved, Kilmer embraced smaller, more specialized roles, consistently delivering high-quality performances and ultimately amassing a filmography of over 70 movies and numerous stage productions.
In 2015, Kilmer faced a significant health challenge when he was diagnosed with throat cancer. Although the treatment affected his ability to speak, he remained undeterred, continuing to appear on-screen and at events where fans celebrate his remarkable career spanning over four decades. Below, we highlight some of the most iconic roles from this extraordinary actor, who will forever remain, as he famously stated in Tombstone, our huckleberry.
Top Secret! (1984)
Many may overlook the fact that Kilmer’s first major film role was in the Zucker-Abraham-Zucker comedy Top Secret!, a follow-up to their beloved spoof Airplane!. Fresh from Juilliard, where he aspired to portray Hamlet on stage, Kilmer instead took on the role of a ’50s-style rock ‘n’ roll singer sent on a thrilling spy mission behind the Iron Curtain. This hilarious comedy is filled with gags, with absurdities occurring every 15 seconds, from oversized telephones to a reverse-motion bookstore scene. Kilmer executes his role with a perfect blend of seriousness and bewilderment, much like Leslie Nielsen did in Airplane!. He is aware of the zany antics happening around him yet remains oblivious to the humor, which many seasoned comedic actors might find challenging. His impressive performance in this debut role is a testament to his innate talent.
Real Genius (1985)
Directed by Martha Coolidge, who propelled Nicolas Cage to stardom in Valley Girl, Real Genius stands as an underrated classic of 1980s comedies. The film centers on Mitch Taylor, a young science prodigy played by Gabriel Jarret, who enrolls in a Cal Tech-like institution and unwittingly becomes embroiled in a nefarious professor’s plan to develop a lethal laser for military use. Kilmer shines as Mitch’s mentor, Chris Knight, blending brilliance, free-spiritedness, and hedonism. While the story primarily revolves around Mitch, Kilmer’s magnetic presence dominates the screen, captivating audiences with a unique blend of coolness and eccentricity. His charm and comedic timing shine through, ensuring he does not overshadow Jarret, yet it’s clear he is destined for greater acclaim.
Top Gun (1986)
Kilmer’s portrayal of Tom “Iceman” Kazansky in Top Gun catapulted him into the national spotlight. This role marked a stark departure from his previous comedic performances, presenting a formidable challenge, as Tom Cruise starred as the lead, a young, brash fighter pilot attending an elite training school. For the film’s success, director Tony Scott required an adversary capable of matching Cruise’s charisma and intensity. Kilmer delivered impeccably, shedding any remnants of his earlier comedic roles to embody a character with icy confidence and an air of superiority. Yet, despite Iceman’s frosty demeanor, Kilmer infused his character with charm, making it easy for audiences to root for him during the film’s climactic reconciliation scene. His emotional return in the 2022 sequel, Top Gun: Maverick, adds depth to his character, offering a poignant connection that fans appreciate.
The Doors (1991)
By 1991, Kilmer had solidified his status as a leading man, delivering one of the most transformative performances of his career as Jim Morrison in Oliver Stone’s biopic The Doors. Kilmer not only portrayed Morrison but also lent his voice to the film’s musical numbers, showcasing his dedication to authenticity. His nuanced performance was the result of extensive preparation, including hours spent with band producer Paul Rothchild to understand Morrison’s complexities. This portrayal differed significantly from Kilmer’s earlier roles, as he focused on internal conflict rather than dominating the screen with an extroverted persona. Through his interpretation, Kilmer captures the tempestuous nature of Morrison, presenting a character consumed by inner turmoil and struggles that resonate deeply with viewers.
Director Michael Apted, known for his impactful documentary work, created Thunderheart, inspired by the Native American activist Leonard Peltier’s story. This film marked a historic moment as Apted became the first Hollywood director permitted to film on the Pine Ridge Reservation in South Dakota. Kilmer stars as Ray Levoi, an ambitious FBI agent of mixed heritage who has distanced himself from his Native American roots. Assigned to investigate a murder on the reservation, he is compelled to confront his identity and the broader implications of historical oppression. Kilmer’s performance balances the grit of a cop film with a profound sensitivity that adds depth to his character, making it a compelling exploration of personal and cultural conflict.
True Romance (1993)
True Romance is a film renowned for many reasons, including being the breakthrough project for Quentin Tarantino in Hollywood. The film features a star-studded cast, including Christopher Walken, Dennis Hopper, Gary Oldman, and Brad Pitt. However, it is Kilmer’s brief yet impactful appearance as the ghost of Elvis Presley that nearly steals the show. Serving as a spiritual guide to the protagonist, played by Christian Slater, Kilmer’s embodiment of Presley adds an almost mythical quality to the narrative. His ethereal presence, often obscured, aligns perfectly with Kilmer’s own status as a unique figure in Hollywood, building a career that defies conventional norms.
Tombstone (1993)
In the ensemble cast of Tombstone, featuring stars like Kurt Russell, Charlton Heston, and Sam Elliott, it is Kilmer’s portrayal of Doc Holliday that captivates audiences the most. His interpretation of the infamous gunslinger in the classic retelling of the Gunfight at the O.K. Corral sets a new standard for all subsequent portrayals. Kilmer immerses himself in the character, adopting a Southern accent and embodying Holliday’s charm and melancholy. His delivery of memorable lines, such as “Why, Johnny Ringo, you look like somebody just walked over your grave,” showcases his ability to blend humor with gravitas, elevating a complex character into a figure of nobility and allure. This role stands as one of the most iconic performances of Kilmer’s illustrious career.
Heat (1995)
Kilmer’s final classic in the 1990s is his role in Michael Mann’s Heat, where he plays Chris Shiherlis, a member of Robert De Niro’s criminal enterprise. The film chronicles a series of high-stakes heists pursued by the gang and investigated by Al Pacino’s relentless cop, Vincent Hanna. While De Niro and Pacino dominate the narrative, Kilmer’s performance remains compelling, showcasing his ability to hold his own among cinematic giants. Despite also starring as Batman in the same year, Kilmer skillfully navigates the script’s dynamics, understanding that his character’s strength lies in supporting the central conflict. This performance exemplifies Kilmer’s versatility and reinforces the notion that character actors hold a special place in the film industry.
The Salton Sea (2002)
As Kilmer’s career progressed, he took on fewer leading roles in blockbuster films, yet his acting prowess never waned. One standout project from the early 2000s is The Salton Sea, a gritty neo-noir crime film where Kilmer portrays Danny Parker, a former trumpet player ensnared by the methamphetamine culture in Southern California. Faced with corruption from both gangsters and law enforcement, Parker strives to protect his neighbor while unraveling the mystery behind his wife’s murder. This complex character study showcases Kilmer’s ability to navigate darker themes while maintaining an engaging narrative, revealing the depth of his talent even in lesser-known projects.
Kiss Kiss Bang Bang (2005)
One of Kilmer’s most cherished roles in his later career is found in Shane Black’s darkly comedic crime film Kiss Kiss Bang Bang. The plot revolves around a New York actor, portrayed by Robert Downey Jr., who inadvertently becomes involved in a Hollywood murder mystery and partners with Kilmer’s flamboyant gay private investigator, Gay Perry. Kilmer delivers a suave, sardonic performance that contrasts beautifully with Downey’s frenetic energy, showcasing their palpable on-screen chemistry. Their interactions are rich with humor, physical comedy, and even a notorious on-screen kiss, demonstrating Kilmer’s versatility and captivating presence. This role encapsulates many facets of Kilmer’s extensive career, from comedy to charisma, reminding audiences of his extraordinary capabilities as an actor.
Bonus: Val (2021)
The documentary Val offers a captivating glimpse into Kilmer’s life, constructed from personal interview footage, voiceovers by his son Jack, and an extensive collection of home videos spanning his youth and career. This film chronicles Kilmer’s journey while providing an unvarnished perspective on his experiences, achievements, regrets, and reflections on acting. Its strength lies in the honest portrayal of Kilmer’s life and the unique behind-the-scenes insights it offers. Despite his vocal challenges post-cancer, Kilmer wrote the voiceover, enhancing the film’s authenticity. Viewers are treated to rare moments from the set of Top Gun and a candid look at Kilmer’s self-made audition tapes for directors like Oliver Stone and Stanley Kubrick. The documentary also includes less flattering footage, such as Kilmer’s notorious clashes with director John Frankenheimer during the troubled production of The Island of Dr. Moreau. Rather than serving as a promotional piece, Val stands as a sincere exploration of Kilmer’s life, making it a fitting tribute to his enduring legacy.
60 Significant Dates in Hollywood History
Gallery Credit: Jen Austin
