Young Guns II, released in theaters on August 1, 1990 , is a stylish and often rock-and-roll-infused sequel that continues the saga of Billy the Kid and his gang. The sequel to the hit film Young Guns blends historical myth with a modern, rebellious energy, providing a charismatic and ultimately poignant look at the outlaws’ final days.
The story picks up with William H. Bonney, a.k.a. Billy the Kid (Emilio Estevez), and his remaining gang members on the run after the events of the first film. The gang is pursued by Governor Lew Wallace (Scott Wilson), who has offered Billy a deal for a pardon that quickly falls apart.
With a bounty on his head, Billy and his crew are now fugitives. He and his gang—Doc Scurlock (Kiefer Sutherland), Jose Chavez y Chavez (Lou Diamond Phillips), and newcomer Arkansas Dave Rudabaugh (Christian Slater) are forced to flee New Mexico.
Their journey is a mix of camaraderie, violence, and a desperate fight for survival.
The film introduces a new antagonist, the relentless and cunning lawman Pat Garrett (William Petersen), a former friend of Billy’s who has now been tasked with hunting him down.
This classic cat-and-mouse game between the two former allies forms the central conflict of the film. The cast is further enriched by Alan Ruck as Hendrick, James Coburn as John Chisum, Viggo Mortensen as Deputy Sheriff John W. Poe, and Jenny Wright as Jane Greathouse.
The film culminates in a legendary showdown, where the myth of Billy the Kid is solidified in a hail of gunfire.
Young Guns II (Photo/20th Century Fox)
Reception for Young Guns II
Young Guns II grossed $8 million on its opening weekend, finishing third at the box office behind Ghost ($10.8 million) and Presumed Innocent ($10.2 million) and ahead of Problem Child ($6.8 million).
The film would gross $44.1 million in its run during the epic summer of 1990’s blockbusters lineup.
Legacy
Young Guns II‘s primarily role is continuing the modernization of the western genre for a 90s audience. It’s remembered for its iconic soundtrack, featuring Jon Bon Jovi’s Academy Award-nominated song Blaze of Glory, which perfectly captured the film’s rebellious spirit.
The film successfully brought back the charismatic ensemble cast, particularly Estevez, whose portrayal of Billy the Kid became his signature role.
Young Guns II stands as a definitive entry in the modern western revival, leaving behind a legacy of cool defiance and the enduring legend of one of the Wild West’s most famous figures.
