Gunslinger Wyatt Earp (Richard Dix) applies his sharpshooting talents to enforcing the law as the deputy of Tombstone, Ariz. And Tombstone, it turns out, can use Earp's help. The town is under the control of the bandit Curly Bill (Edgar Buchanan) and his gang of outlaws. With the help of his friend Doc Holliday (Kent Taylor), Earp attempts to run the bandits out of town. But Curly Bill isn't ready to comply. Only a showdown at the O. K. Corral will settle the score.
A decent retelling of the Tombstone legend starts, oddly enough, with narration by the town itself. I found that quite inventive and a great introduction- Richard Dix makes a philosophical Wyatt Earp who tries to reform Johnny -Don Castle - before he goes down the lawless route courtesy of Bill Brocious. Most of the subplot of Earp reforming Johnny takes up most of the film, and it is quite interesting.
If you're expecting an intense or dark version of Tombstone and Wyatt Earp, then you will be disappointed. This 1942 version is a lively, conversational retelling with light moments as well as action-packed ones. The finale at OK Corral is quite well done.
