Introduction to the Movie The Doc Holliday (2023)

The Doc Holliday (2023) is a Western film directed by Brett Bentman, offering a fresh perspective on the life of the legendary figure John Henry “Doc” Holliday. The movie focuses on a lesser-explored period in Doc Holliday’s life, before his involvement in the famous gunfight at the O.K. Corral. Featuring a cast including Tom Zembrod, Billy Blair, Stephen Brodie, and Derrick Redford, the film promises a gripping tale of friendship, loyalty, and tense confrontations.

Basic Information

• Director: Brett Bentman
• Main Cast:
  • Tom Zembrod as Doc Holliday
  • Derrick Redford as Wyatt Earp
  • Billy Blair as Jeffrey Bridle
  • Stephen Brodie as John Bridle
  • Robert Keith as Pastor Willingham
  • Tiffany McDonald as Georgia
• Genre: Western, Drama
• Runtime: 92 minutes
• Release Date: March 1, 2023
• IMDb Rating: 3.7/10
• Streaming Platforms: Available on Prime Video, Fandango at Home, Plex, and other streaming services.

Plot Summary

Set in rural Georgia, the film follows Doc Holliday (Tom Zembrod), who runs a small dental practice while living a somewhat reckless life, often indulging in alcohol. His life takes a turn when Wyatt Earp (Derrick Redford), a young lawman, arrives and enlists Doc for a dangerous mission: to track down the notorious Bridle brothers, infamous outlaws of the West.

The journey transforms Doc Holliday from a drunken dentist into a bounty hunter, laying the foundation for his enduring friendship with Wyatt Earp—a bond that would later lead them to the historic events in Tombstone. The film not only delivers action but also delves into the psychological struggles of its characters, particularly Doc Holliday’s internal conflict between a quiet life and the call of adventure.

Highlights

1. Authentic Western Atmosphere: The film is praised for capturing the essence of the Western genre, with scenes that evoke the spirit of the Old West, from gunfights to rugged towns. Despite its low budget, the production team successfully creates a vivid Western setting.
2. Acting: Tom Zembrod portrays a Doc Holliday distinct from iconic depictions (such as Val Kilmer’s in Tombstone), presenting a carefree yet charismatic figure. Supporting actors, particularly Billy Blair and Stephen Brodie, add intensity to key moments.
3. Unique Storyline: Instead of focusing on the well-known O.K. Corral shootout, the film explores an earlier chapter in the relationship between Doc Holliday and Wyatt Earp, offering a fresh take for Western enthusiasts.

Audience and Critic Feedback

The film has received mixed reviews:

• Strengths:
  • Many viewers appreciate the effort to produce a Western on a limited budget.
  • The Western atmosphere is well-executed, appealing to fans of the genre.
• Weaknesses:
  • Some criticize the slow pacing and lack of climactic moments, which may disappoint viewers expecting high-octane action.
  • Technical flaws, such as a drone shadow appearing in a chase scene, detract from the film’s professionalism.
  • Certain reviews note that the film fails to innovate compared to earlier depictions of Doc Holliday (Tombstone, Wyatt Earp), making it challenging to stand out.

On IMDb, the film scores 3.7/10, with some acknowledging it as a commendable effort but not on par with classic Doc Holliday films. On Rotten Tomatoes, it faces harsher criticism, with some calling it “a film lacking impact and failing to fully utilize the potential of its historical figure.” However, certain audiences praise the production’s effort and authentic setting.

Comparison to Other Works

If you enjoyed Tombstone (1993) with Val Kilmer’s stellar portrayal of Doc Holliday, The Doc Holliday (2023) may not meet expectations for grandeur or psychological depth. However, it’s worth watching for those interested in a different angle on the character, focusing on an underrepresented phase of his life. The film is the first in a series by director Brett Bentman, followed by Doc Holliday 2 and Doc Holliday 3 (2024), which continue to explore the character’s story.

Target Audience

• Suitable for:
  • Fans of Western films looking for a new take on Doc Holliday.
  • Viewers who enjoy low-budget, independent films with a unique charm.
• Not suitable for:
  • Those expecting a high-action blockbuster or a film with the depth of Tombstone.
  • Audiences sensitive to technical errors or slow-paced storytelling.

Where to Watch

You can watch The Doc Holliday (2023) on platforms such as:

• Prime Video: Available for rent or purchase.
• Fandango at Home: Offers rent or buy options.
• Plex: Free with ads.
• Roku: Accessible via streaming channels.

Conclusion

The Doc Holliday (2023) is an independent Western that provides a fresh perspective on the historical figure Doc Holliday. While it doesn’t rival classics like Tombstone, it’s a worthwhile watch for fans of the genre and those curious about a lesser-known chapter in the friendship between Doc Holliday and Wyatt Earp. If you’re a fan of independent films or want to see a unique take on Doc Holliday, give this movie a chance to make its mark!

Personal Rating: 4/10 – A respectable effort but in need of more innovation to leave a lasting impression.