vandykeu

This is probably my most controversial movie opinion, but I absolutely love Lightning Jack. It's been basically panned for its entire history, but I just don't understand why. Ok, Paul Hogan is basically playing Mick Dundee as Jack, but he is as lovable here as he was in those films. Cuba Gooding Jr does a great job as mute Ben Doyle. I really like Beverly D'Angelo and LQ Jones in their roles.

As a film, again sure, it is formulaic, but also is not bad as a plot. The setup is pretty clever, and it pokes fun at common western tropes and prejudices in fun ways. It's not Blazing Saddles level of satire, but it also isn't punching down, like some films. Hogans films always do a pretty good job of elevating often-hidden voices in realistic ways, and this one is no different.

And, maybe I'm just weird, but the humor of this movie really speaks to me. It's got great puns and one-liners, and Cuba's written lines are. The silent scream and 'is he bald' line have me in tears every time. It's a bit puerile, but hey, I first saw this picking up off a random shelf at Blockbuster back when I was in my early teens, so what can you do?

In any case, it's a crime that this film is not better appreciated. Just go into it for a good time and you'll have fun.