Val Kilmer’s 10 most iconic roles

Val Kilmer has created one of the most diverse careers of all the actors of his generation since he appeared on stage in the early 1980s.

He had a strong magnetism on the screen and had the rare ability to channel him in various directions, slipping effortlessly into all kinds, from comedies to action movies and biographies.

Here are some of his most iconic roles:

Top Secret! (1984)

Kilmer’s first appearance on the big screen came on the extremely confidentiality! (1984), a comedy-parody of Zucker-Abraham-Zucker.

Although he had completed the Juilliard and dreamed of starring Hamlet, Kilmer was chosen for a completely different role.

He plays an American rock ‘n’ roll singer in 50s style, who undertakes a spy mission behind the iron curtain.

Like Leslie Nilson in Airplane! It plays its role with the right combination of seriousness and embarrassment. He knows that crazy things are happening around him, but he never seems to be involved.

Real Genius (1985)

In the science fiction comedy Real Genius, Val Kilmer plays Chris Knight, an extremely clever and hedonist student of physics who guides a younger « child-miracle » scientist.

The film combines science and humor, with Kilmer once again demonstrating his ability to bring a charismatic and revolutionary character to life.

His interpretation is full of intelligence and a sense of freedom, making him one of the most memorable characters of the 80s.

Top Gun (1986)

Val Kilmer’s role as an Iceman in the legendary Top Gun (1986) made him a world star.

In the film, he plays an arrogant but extremely capable pilot, Tom Cruise’s competitor.

Despite his aggression, Kilmer offers a nice and human Iceman, making him one of the most beloved « bad » in the history of cinema.

The film became a legend and Kilmer established his place at the top of Hollywood.

The Doors (1991)

The most decisive moment in Kilmer’s career came in 1991 with his performance as Jim Morrison in Oliver Stone’s The Doors movie.

In the biography of the legendary singer, Kilmer is limited not only to starring Morrison, but also singing the doors’ songs.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ftrzhfcfakw

His excellent interpretation captures the intensity and conflict experienced by the legendary Roccostar, and the success of Kilmer’s role was a reference point for the interpretations of biographical films in the future.

Thunderheart (1992)

In the film Thunderheart (1992), Kilmer plays Ray Levoi, a native American FBI agent who is sent to investigate a murder in the Sioux camp in southern Dakota.

His interpretation, full of emotional tension, reveals the inner struggle of his character to reconcile with his inheritance and at the same time serving his duty.

Kilmer once again proves his ability to adapt to deep and emotional roles.

True Romance (1993)

In True Romance by Quentin Tarantino, Kilmer embodies the ghost of Elvis Presley who appears as a consultant to the film’s hero. Although his appearance is small, Kilmer’s interpretation as Elvis steals the show.

His presence, although limited, offers a fantastic dimension to the film and combines Elvis’s mythology with his cinematic identity.

Tombstone (1993)

Kilmer’s interpretation as Doc Holliday in Tombstone (1993) is perhaps the most legendary in his career.

Kilmer is fully transformed into the infamous gunman, attributing his character with excellent faithful and emotional intensity.

His jokes, such as « I’m Huckleberry », and Holliday’s intense personality make Kilmer’s role unmatched and unforgettable for Western cinematic friends.

Batman Forever (1995)

In Michael Mann’s Heat film, Kilmer plays Chris Shiherlis, a member of the criminal team of Neil McCauley (Robert De Niro).

His interpretation, despite being a secondary role, is excellent and offers strong support for the film’s intensity atmosphere.

Kilmer proves that he can even emerge in secondary roles, giving dynamic and remarkable interpretations.

Kiss Kiss Bang (2005)

In 2005, Kilmer returns with Shan Bang’s Kiss Kiss Bang, where he plays Gay Private Detective Gay Perry.

His chemistry with Robert Downey Junior creates an excellent comedic dynamic, and Kilmer reinves himself as an actor, highlighting the sardonic humor side and his ability to create unique characters.