Top 10 Val Kilmer Movies (That Aren’t Top Gun or Batman)
- Publish date
- Thursday, 3 Apr 2025, 6:25AM

The passing of Val Kilmer has left a big hole in the hearts of movie lovers everywhere. Whether he was giving Tom Cruise a run for his money as Iceman in Top Gun, or donning the cape and cowl in Batman Forever, Kilmer’s iconic roles have etched themselves into film history.
But let’s face it — you’ve probably seen those blockbusters already. What you may have missed are some of the lesser-known gems that show just how versatile, daring, and downright unforgettable Val Kilmer really was on screen.
So, here it is — 10 Val Kilmer Movies You Need to See (That Aren’t Top Gun or Batman):
1. Tombstone (1993)
“I’m your Huckleberry.”
Kilmer’s turn as Doc Holliday is the stuff of movie legend. A witty, whiskey-soaked gambler with a death wish and a sharp tongue, Kilmer delivers one of the best supporting performances of the ’90s. If you haven’t seen it — fix that.
2. The Doors (1991)
As Jim Morrison, Kilmer doesn’t just act — he becomes the legendary frontman. His performance is so convincing, even members of The Doors had trouble telling his vocals from Jim’s. An electric biopic for music fans and cinephiles alike.
3. Heat (1995)
Going toe-to-toe with Pacino and De Niro is no small feat, but Kilmer more than holds his own as Chris Shiherlis, a cool-headed thief with a tragic edge. It’s action-packed, emotional, and pure Michael Mann magic.
4. Kiss Kiss Bang Bang (2005)
Kilmer flexes his comedic muscle in this slick, hilarious crime caper. As Gay Perry (yes, that’s the character’s name), he’s got razor-sharp timing and killer chemistry with Robert Downey Jr. A modern cult classic.
5. Willow (1988)
Long before fantasy was mainstream, Willow gave us swords, sorcery, and Kilmer as the dashing, reluctant hero Madmartigan. It’s nostalgic, fun, and packed with swashbuckling charm.
6. The Salton Sea (2002)
Dark, gritty, and criminally underrated. Kilmer plays a man haunted by grief and consumed by vengeance. It’s a haunting dive into identity and revenge — and proof of Kilmer’s range when things get raw.
7. Real Genius (1985)
A young Kilmer in peak ’80s form. As Chris Knight, a boy-genius with a rebellious streak, he brings charisma and comedic gold to this feel-good flick about lasers, college, and sticking it to the man.
8. Spartan (2004)
Written and directed by David Mamet, this political thriller features Kilmer in full tough-guy mode. The plot’s twisty, the dialogue’s razor-sharp, and Kilmer’s performance is intensely watchable.
9. At First Sight (1999)
A softer side of Kilmer. In this romantic drama, he plays a blind man adjusting to life after gaining vision — and the emotional fallout that comes with it. It’s tender, heartfelt, and seriously underrated.
10. MacGruber (2010)
Yes. MacGruber. As the delightfully evil Dieter Von Cunth (you read that right), Kilmer chews the scenery and has a blast doing it. It’s stupid in the best possible way — and shows he never took himself too seriously.
🎬 Val Kilmer wasn’t just a leading man — he was a shapeshifter. From drama to comedy, fantasy to thriller, he brought unforgettable energy to every role. So if you’re looking to celebrate the man behind the iconic Iceman and Gotham’s Caped Crusader, dive into some of these under-the-radar classics.
Which of these is your favourite? Or did we miss one you love? Hit us up on Facebook or text the studio line — we’d love to hear your picks.