Hour of the Gun

Hour of the Gun 1967

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Plot Summary

Discover the intricate plot of Hour of the Gun (1967). From unexpected twists to emotional highs and lows, this detailed summary breaks down every moment to give you a deeper understanding of the film’s story.


As the dust settles following their decisive victory at the O.K. Corral, Wyatt Earp, the Deputy Marshal of Tombstone, joins forces with his older brother Virgil Earp, the current City Marshal, and their younger brother Morgan Earp, a special police officer in Tombstone. Together, they form an unbreakable alliance with Doc Holliday, a skilled gambler with a shadowy past. United by their unwavering commitment to justice, this formidable quartet relentlessly tracks the nefarious Ike Clanton gang, determined to hold them accountable for their crimes.

Ike Clanton, a notorious and ruthless rustler, devises a sinister scheme aimed at framing the Earps for murder, intending to see them tried in court. Even after the Earps are exonerated of all charges, Virgil’s efforts for re-election as City Marshal are brutally thwarted by an ambush orchestrated by Clanton’s hired guns, leaving him seriously injured and unable to continue. In a heart-wrenching twist, Morgan decides to take over the campaign for his brother’s position, only to face tragedy himself on election day, having won the office.

Witnessing his brother and family leave for California in search of safety from the escalating violence in Tombstone, Earp takes matters into his own hands. He gains swift justice against Frank Stillwell, thwarting yet another ambush orchestrated by Clanton, and earns the right to go after those responsible for attacking his brothers. Meanwhile, Doc Holliday rallies a loyal group of allies to back Earp’s relentless pursuit of justice against the lawless elements plaguing the town.

Earp and Holliday track down the likes of Pete Spence, Curly Bill Brocius, and Andy Warshaw, often forcing their prey into a corner that leads to confrontation instead of peaceful surrender. While Holliday grows increasingly concerned about Earp’s aggressive tactics, his own health deteriorates due to tuberculosis, compelling Earp to take him to a sanitarium in Colorado for care.

As they embark on this harsh yet unwavering crusade for justice, Earp’s steadfastness in enforcing the law is commendable, even as the heavy toll of violence and loss weighs down on him and his companions. His unyielding resolve becomes a beacon of hope amid chaos, motivating those around him to stand firm against the dark forces seeking to dismantle the very fabric of goodness in Tombstone.

After the Clanton faction has crumbled, opportunistic factions in Tombstone exploit the situation, offering Clanton a chance to flee to Mexico to regroup. Meanwhile, the city’s prominent citizens present Earp with a compelling opportunity—the role of Chief U.S. Marshal, with ambitions of rising to Adjutant General for the territory. Initially ambivalent, Earp shares his thoughts with Doc Holliday, hinting at his intention to return to Tombstone for the position. However, Holliday remains doubtful, convinced that Earp’s true aim lies in pursuing Clanton with support from Mexican officials. As expected, Holliday joins Earp on this new venture, culminating in an explosive confrontation, where Earp faces Clanton in a high-stakes duel that decisively ends the outlaw’s reign.

After tying up loose ends, Earp returns to the sanitarium to pay his respects to Holliday, who is still confined to his bed due to ongoing health challenges. With a heavy heart, Earp bids his friend farewell, promising that this time he genuinely intends to return to Tombstone. However, as he rides away, he confides to a visiting elder from Tombstone about his decision to leave the world of law enforcement behind and escape the tumult of the Southwest. As Earp disappears into the horizon, Holliday casts one last glance at the sprawling countryside before turning back to his poker game with the sanatorium aide, resigned to the uncertain future that awaits.

Timeline

Track the key events of Hour of the Gun (1967) with a comprehensive timeline. Perfect for understanding the sequence of major plot points, this feature offers clarity on how the story unfolds.


Victory at the O.K. Corral

Following a decisive victory at the O.K. Corral, Wyatt Earp and his brothers solidify their commitment to justice. The victory not only strengthens their bond but also amplifies their determination to tackle the criminal underbelly of Tombstone.

O.K. Corral

Formation of the Earp Alliance

Wyatt, Virgil, and Morgan Earp come together with Doc Holliday to form an unbreakable alliance. This formidable group is determined to track down the notorious Ike Clanton gang, holding them accountable for their crimes in Tombstone.

Tombstone

Ike Clanton's Scheme

Ike Clanton devises a plan to frame the Earps for murder, hoping to see them tried in court. His cunning strategy adds tension to the narrative as the Earp brothers battle against false accusations and deceit.

Virgil's Ambush

After being exonerated, Virgil Earp's re-election campaign is shattered when he is ambushed by Clanton's hired guns. The attack leaves Virgil seriously injured, compounding the troubles facing the Earp family.

Tombstone

Morgan Takes Over the Campaign

In a heart-wrenching twist, Morgan Earp takes over Virgil's campaign for City Marshal despite the dangers. Tragically, Morgan wins the election but faces a deadly outcome on that fateful election day.

Tombstone

Earp's Pursuit of Justice

Seeing his brothers leave for safety, Wyatt Earp takes matters into his own hands. He seeks swift justice against Frank Stillwell, thwarting another of Clanton's ambushes, and asserts his right to pursue those who harmed his family.

Formation of Earp's Loyal Allies

Doc Holliday gathers a loyal group of allies to support Earp in his relentless quest for justice against the lawless elements in Tombstone. Their unity embodies the struggle for order amidst chaos.

Confrontations with Outlaws

Earp and Holliday confront notorious outlaws like Pete Spence and Curly Bill Brocius. These encounters often escalate into violent confrontations, showcasing their commitment to law and order.

Holliday's Deteriorating Health

As the violent encounters continue, Doc Holliday's health deteriorates due to tuberculosis. This compels Earp to seek higher ground and take Holliday to a sanitarium in Colorado for medical care.

Colorado sanitarium

Earp's Unyielding Resolve

Even amidst escalating violence and loss, Earp's dedication to enforcing the law never wavers. His steadfastness becomes a beacon of hope for those around him, urging them to stand against evil.

Tombstone

Political Opportunity for Earp

With the Clanton faction defeated, Earp is offered a significant role as Chief U.S. Marshal. Though initially hesitating, discussions with Holliday reveal his true desire to pursue Clanton and restore justice.

Tombstone

Confrontation with Ike Clanton

Earp's journey culminates in a high-stakes duel with Ike Clanton. This confrontation decisively ends Clanton’s reign of terror, marking a significant turning point in restoring peace.

Tombstone

Farewell to Doc Holliday

After dealing with Clanton, Earp returns to the sanitarium to bid farewell to Holliday. This emotional moment highlights their deep friendship amidst the turmoil they faced together.

Colorado sanitarium

Earp's Decision to Leave

As Earp prepares to leave, he confides in a visiting elder about his choice to retire from law enforcement. He yearns to escape the chaos of the Southwest, revealing his weariness after the relentless conflicts.

A Resigned Future for Holliday

As Earp rides away into the horizon, Holliday catches a final glimpse of the sprawling desert before returning to his poker game. This poignant moment encapsulates the uncertain futures that await both men.

Characters

Meet the characters that bring Hour of the Gun (1967) to life. Dive into detailed profiles of the cast and their roles, exploring their motivations, relationships, and arcs within the story.


Wyatt Earp (James Garner)

Wyatt Earp is portrayed as a determined Deputy Marshal grappling with the harsh realities of law enforcement in Tombstone. His unwavering sense of justice motivates him to confront the dangerous Clanton gang. Earp's leadership qualities and commitment to family underscore his dual role as a protector and an enforcer.

👮‍♂️ Lawman 🔫 Determined 🚨 Protector

Doc Holliday (Jason Robards)

Doc Holliday is a charming yet troubled gambler whose loyalty to Earp drives his actions throughout the film. Despite his declining health due to tuberculosis, he embodies courage and resilience, often serving as a moral compass for Earp. His complexities add depth to the theme of friendship as he wrestles with his fate.

♠️ Gambler 🌪️ Troubled 🤞 Loyal

Virgil Earp (Larry Gates)

Virgil Earp stands as the City Marshal, upholding law and order amid increasing chaos. His commitment to public service is evident, but he also experiences the personal toll of violence. His involvement in the narrative emphasizes the sacrifices made by lawmen during a tumultuous period.

🏛️ Marshal ⚖️ Justice-Seeker 🚑 Victim

Morgan Earp (Albert Salmi)

Morgan Earp, the younger brother, embodies bravery and a sense of duty, stepping up when his family needs him the most. His ambition to follow in Virgil's footsteps leads to tragic consequences, highlighting the dangers faced by those who strive for political power amid violence. His journey reflects the heavy burden of legacy.

⚔️ Brave 🔥 Ambitious 😢 Victim

Setting

Uncover the settings of Hour of the Gun (1967), from iconic locations to the time period that shapes its world. See how these elements add depth and context to the movie’s narrative.


Time period

Late 1800s

The late 1800s encapsulate the American West's lawlessness and relentless struggle for justice amid conflict. During this era, notorious outlaw gangs challenged the authority of lawmen, leading to dramatic confrontations and a fight for survival. The shifting allegiances and violent confrontations define the unpredictable landscape in which the story unfolds.

Location

Tombstone, Colorado

Tombstone, a historic town in Arizona, is notorious for its rich Wild West history and gunfights, such as the famous O.K. Corral. Known for its lawlessness in the late 1800s, it attracted gunslingers, merchants, and outlaws alike. In this tumultuous backdrop, crucial events unfold that shape the lives of the Earp brothers and their allies.

🏜️ Wild West 🏙️ Historic Town

Themes

Explore the core themes of Hour of the Gun (1967). From its commentary on social issues to its emotional undertones, delve into the deeper messages woven into the film’s story.


⚔️

Justice

The quest for justice is central to the narrative, portrayed through Wyatt Earp's relentless pursuit of the Clanton gang. The film explores the moral complexities of enforcing the law in a lawless society, raising questions about justice versus vengeance. The characters embody this theme, significantly impacting their lives and decisions.

💔

Loss

The theme of loss permeates the story, particularly through the tragic fates of the Earp brothers. As they strive to protect their family and uphold justice, the high cost of their commitment becomes evident. Their personal sacrifices and the emotional toll of violence highlight the deep scars left by their endeavors.

🤝

Brotherhood

Brotherhood is a crucial element, as the Earp brothers unite against shared adversaries. Their strong bonds drive their determination to seek justice and support one another through challenges. This solidarity reflects themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and the hardships faced while defending their values.

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