The 1995 film "Wild Bill" is a biographical western drama that attempts to capture the essence of the infamous gunslinger Wild Bill Hickock, played by Jeff Bridges. The movie follows Hickock's early career, his rise to notoriety, and his eventual relocation to Deadwood, where he reunites with his old flame, Calamity Jane. While the film boasts an impressive cast, including Ellen Barkin as Calamity Jane, and features striking cinematography, it ultimately falls short in its execution, struggling to balance action, drama, and history.

The film's greatest strength lies in its performances, with Bridges delivering a nuanced and charismatic portrayal of Wild Bill. He brings depth and complexity to the character, making it easy to become invested in his story. The chemistry between Bridges and Barkin is also noteworthy, adding a compelling layer to the narrative. However, the supporting cast is often underutilized, and the characters feel somewhat one-dimensional. The plot, while engaging at times, is marred by a disjointed narrative that fails to provide a cohesive or comprehensive look at Wild Bill's life. The film's 98-minute runtime feels rushed, with key events and relationships glossed over or simplified for the sake of brevity.

Despite its flaws, "Wild Bill" remains a visually stunning film, with a keen attention to period detail and a striking color palette. The action sequences are intense and well-choreographed, making for some thrilling moments. The movie also touches on themes of fame, mortality, and the fleeting nature of human connection, adding a layer of depth to the narrative. However, these themes are not fully explored, and the film's tone often feels inconsistent, veering wildly from somber drama to action-packed spectacle. Overall, "Wild Bill" is a flawed but fascinating film that will appeal to fans of westerns and those interested in the legend of Wild Bill Hickock. While it may not be a definitive or entirely satisfying biopic, it remains a compelling and visually stunning tale of a legendary lawman's turbulent life.