The passing of Val Kilmer earlier this year marked a profound loss for the film industry, leaving a deep emotional impact on movie fans and colleagues alike. From cinematic icons like Tom Cruise to visionary directors such as Michael Mann, tributes have poured in, honoring Kilmer’s unforgettable legacy. Now, Willow co-star Warwick Davis has joined in, reflecting on how Kilmer’s presence made an indelible difference during the making of the cult fantasy movie.
In an interview, Davis opened up about his experience working alongside Kilmer, who famously portrayed the swashbuckling Madmartigan in Willow. Davis described Kilmer as a crucial source of support during the film’s demanding production. “He’s really the reason I got through the making of the film Willow,” Davis said. “Because if ever I was tired, exhausted, fed up, cold, he’d say, ‘Come on, keep going!’ And he’d be the kind of leader of the army, keeping us going. He was a beautiful man.”
Davis also emphasized the warmth and generosity Kilmer brought to the set—traits he believes were too often overlooked in the public eye. “I always like to tell the world how great he was,” he said. “Because I often think the media gave the wrong impression of who he was as a person. He was a very warm, generous, kind-hearted person.”
Kilmer’s career is a testament to artistic versatility, spanning decades and encompassing a wide array of roles across multiple movie genres. Whether as the comic spy in Top Secret!, the iconic Doc Holliday in Tombstone, or Jim Morrison in The Doors, his performances were marked by a unique blend of charisma and intensity. Few actors could transition from Batman to a role in a fantasy movie plot like Willow with such effortless brilliance.
Though Kilmer was unable to reprise his role in the Disney+ sequel series of Willow due to ongoing health struggles, his presence was felt nonetheless. His son, Jack Kilmer, lent his voice to Madmartigan in several episodes—an emotional and poignant homage to his father’s enduring impact.
As fans revisit Kilmer’s remarkable filmography, from action-packed blockbusters to heartfelt dramas, the question remains: what is your favorite Val Kilmer performance? Whether your preference lies in the thrill of Heat, the haunting soul of The Doors, or the magical realms of fantasy movies, his legacy continues to inspire and captivate.
