CBR Ranks Wyatt Earp Movies: 'My Darling Clementine' Tops Over 'Tombstone'

Few figures in Western history have inspired more movies than Wyatt Earp.

From Tombstone to Wyatt Earp and countless retellings of the Gunfight at the O.K. Corral, the legendary lawman has remained one of Hollywood's favorite frontier heroes for decades. But according to a ranking from CBR, the greatest Wyatt Earp movie isn't Tombstone.

Instead, that honor goes to 1946's My Darling Clementine.

Why 'My Darling Clementine' Took the Top Spot

Directed by legendary filmmaker John Ford, My Darling Clementine stars Henry Fonda as Wyatt Earp and tells the story leading up to the famous Gunfight at the O.K. Corral.

CBR praised the film as "by far the greatest Western ever made about Wyatt Earp," noting that Ford brought a unique level of authenticity to the project.

Before becoming one of Hollywood's greatest Western directors, Ford actually knew Wyatt Earp personally. While working as a prop boy during the silent film era, Ford spent time with the famed lawman, who shared stories about his life in the Old West, including detailed accounts of the Gunfight at the O.K. Corral. Ford later drew on those conversations while crafting the film's climactic showdown.

The movie also boasts an impressive cast that includes Henry Fonda, Linda Darnell, Victor Mature, Walter Brennan, Tim Holt, Ward Bond and John Ireland.

A Western That Continues to Earn Acclaim

My Darling Clementine was acclaimed when it debuted in 1946, earning a place among the National Board of Review's Top 10 Films of the Year.

Its reputation has only grown over time.

Today, many critics view the film's darker tone and depiction of violence as reflecting the anxieties of the World War II era. In 1991, it became one of the first 75 films selected for the National Film Registry for its cultural, historical and aesthetic significance.

The American Film Institute has also recognized the film multiple times, nominating Henry Fonda's Wyatt Earp among cinema's greatest heroes while also including My Darling Clementine on several of its most prestigious lists of classic American films.

Where Does 'Tombstone' Rank?

While My Darling Clementine claimed the No. 1 spot, CBR ranked another classic Western ahead of Tombstone. The No. 2 spot went to 1950's Winchester '73, starring James Stewart as Lin McAdam, a man pursuing revenge after a prized Winchester rifle is stolen.

Although Wyatt Earp isn't the central character, the legendary lawman - played by Will Geer - makes a memorable appearance early in the film when he prevents a showdown in Dodge City. The acclaimed Western has gone on to earn a place in the National Film Registry and is widely regarded as one of James Stewart's finest performances.

Tombstone landed at No. 3, with Kurt Russell portraying Wyatt Earp and Val Kilmer delivering his now-iconic performance as Doc Holliday. The film remains one of the most beloved Westerns ever made thanks to its memorable dialogue, standout performances and action-packed retelling of the Gunfight at the O.K. Corral.

This story was originally published by Men's Journal on Jun 28, 2026, where it first appeared in the Entertainment section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

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This story was originally published June 27, 2026 at 8:19 PM.