The Legend Reimagined: Brushy Bill and the Myth of Billy the Kid

The film opens with a captivating framing device: an elderly man claiming to be “Brushy Bill” Roberts (Emilio Estevez, expertly disguised with makeup and vocal affectation) recounting his life story to an attorney in 1950. This sets the stage for a revisionist tale, questioning the accepted narrative of Billy the Kid’s death at the hands of Pat Garrett. Whether Roberts’ claim is true becomes secondary to the power of the story itself.

A New Generation of Regulators

Flashbacks transport us to 1879, where a boisterous and charismatic Billy the Kid (Estevez) continues his outlaw life with a revamped crew of Regulators. Returning faces like Doc Spurlock (Kiefer Sutherland) and Jose Chavez y Chavez (Lou Diamond Phillips) are joined by new recruits, including the volatile “Arkansas” Dave Rudabaugh (Christian Slater, delivering a scene-stealing performance) and the youthful Tom O’Folliard (Balthazar Getty). The dynamic between these characters, both old and new, fuels much of the film’s energy.

Garrett’s Transformation and the Price of Loyalty

Adding a layer of complexity is the character of Pat Garrett (William Peterson), initially a friend of Billy’s, who ultimately chooses a different path. Driven by financial incentive and a sense of duty, Garrett accepts a badge and embarks on a mission to capture or kill his former comrade. Peterson’s portrayal is particularly nuanced, showcasing the internal conflict of a man torn between loyalty and obligation. A brief but memorable cameo from James Coburn, who previously played Garrett in “Pat Garrett and Billy the Kid” (1973), adds a delightful meta-touch.

History vs. Hollywood: Does Accuracy Matter?

“Young Guns II” doesn’t pretend to be a historically accurate account of Billy the Kid’s life. And frankly, does it need to be? The film embraces the mythmaking inherent in the Western genre, recognizing that the legend of Billy the Kid is often more compelling than the historical facts. As historian Michael Wallis argues in his book, “Billy the Kid: The Endless Ride” (2007), separating fact from fiction is a perennial challenge when exploring this iconic figure. For those seeking a more rigorous historical account, a visit to Salida, Colorado, where competing museums claim to hold Billy the Kid’s grave and gun, offers a fascinating glimpse into the enduring debate surrounding his life and death.

Old Tucson: A Fitting Backdrop for Western Mythmaking

The film’s visual landscape is inextricably linked to Old Tucson Studios in Arizona. The studio’s weathered sets and authentic atmosphere provide a perfect backdrop for the film’s gritty and romanticized portrayal of the Old West. A visit to Old Tucson reveals its continued use in productions like “Tombstone” (1993), highlighting the studio’s enduring legacy as a cornerstone of Western filmmaking. “Young Guns II,” like many Westerns, utilizes the genre’s visual language to construct a compelling and enduring myth.

The Western’s Enduring Appeal

The popularity of Westerns, alongside musicals, defined early cinema, elevating figures like Tom Mix and John Wayne to iconic status. These stars embodied the spirit of survival and exploration that resonated with audiences. While Emilio Estevez and his co-stars didn’t reach the same legendary heights, they successfully reintroduced the genre to a new generation. “Young Guns” (1988) initially captured the attention of younger viewers, while “Young Guns II” delved deeper into the thematic core of the Western – its exploration of myth, legend, and the complexities of the American frontier.

Beyond the Action: Estevez and a Strong Ensemble Cast

Estevez delivers a captivating performance as Billy the Kid, portraying him as both charismatic and volatile. Sutherland and Phillips reprise their roles with intensity, but it’s William Peterson’s portrayal of Garrett that truly anchors the film. The ensemble cast shines, creating a believable and engaging dynamic. The film isn’t without its flaws, and perhaps could have benefitted from a slightly longer runtime, but its strengths far outweigh its weaknesses.

A Precursor to the Western Revival

While often overshadowed by later Westerns like Clint Eastwood’s “Unforgiven” (1992) and George P. Cosmatos’ “Tombstone” (1993), “Young Guns” and “Young Guns II” deserve recognition for helping to pave the way for the genre’s resurgence in the 1990s. Billy the Kid and his Regulators fired the first shot in this revival.

The Power of the Soundtrack: Jon Bon Jovi’s “Blaze of Glory”

No discussion of “Young Guns II” is complete without mentioning Jon Bon Jovi’s Oscar-nominated and Golden Globe-winning song, “Blaze of Glory.” The song’s lyrics – “Lord I never drew first, but I drew first blood, I’m a devil’s son, call me young gun” – perfectly encapsulate the film’s rebellious spirit and romanticized portrayal of the outlaw life. While not high poetry, the song demonstrates a clear understanding of the story and a genuine enthusiasm for the legend of Billy the Kid.

Ultimately, “Young Guns II” is a potent example of the Western as a vehicle for mythmaking. It’s a thrilling, entertaining, and surprisingly thoughtful film that deserves a wider audience. What makes a compelling Western in your opinion – historical accuracy, thrilling action, or compelling characters?

Frequently Asked Questions About “Young Guns II”