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Lightning Jack is a heartwarming and humorous western comedy film released in 1994, directed by Simon Wincer, and starring Paul Hogan, Cuba Gooding Jr., and Beverly D'Angelo. The film tells the story of an Australian horse thief named Lightning Jack (Hogan) who travels to the American West in hopes of becoming a legendary outlaw like his hero, Billy the Kid.

As the story opens, Jack is a small-time crook who steals horses and is constantly on the run from the law, until he decides to expand his horizons by heading to America to team up with his hero. His plan is quickly derailed when he discovers that Billy the Kid has been dead for many years. Dismissed by a gang of bank robbers and outlaws, Jack is eventually taken in by Ben Doyle (Gooding), a mute, African American cowboy who works as a sharpshooter for hire.

Ben is incredibly skilled with a pistol, but he's also socially awkward, unable to speak due to a childhood trauma. Although initially unsure if he can work with Ben, Jack quickly realizes that his new partner is a smart and determined cowboy with a lot of heart. Together, the unlikely duo sets out on a journey of personal and professional growth.

Along the way, Jack and Ben try to rob a bank unsuccessfully, and they end up saving an abused woman named Lana Castel (D'Angelo), who is married to a wealthy and cruel man. Due to her abusive relationship, Lana has developed a hard exterior, but Jack and Ben manage to get through to her, and she ultimately joins them on their journey.

As the trio travels across the West, they encounter a wide variety of colorful characters, including a sharpshooting dwarf named Pecos (Frank McRae), hostile Indians, and an ambitious cowboy who wants to be a bigger outlaw than Jack. Throughout their journey, Jack goes from a selfish thief to a compassionate leader, who ultimately helps Ben find his voice, and Lana find her independence.

What sets Lightning Jack apart from other western comedies is its unique blend of humor, action, and heart. The film has plenty of laughs and exciting shootouts, but it's also a touching story of friendship, redemption, and personal growth. The chemistry between Hogan, Gooding, and D'Angelo is excellent, and the characters are well-developed and likable.

The film also benefits from strong supporting performances, particularly from Frank McRae as the lovable and badass Pecos. The cinematography is gorgeous, showcasing the stunning natural landscapes of the American West, and the score by Bruce Rowland perfectly captures the film's mix of humor and heart.

Although it received mixed reviews upon its release, Lightning Jack has developed a cult following over the years, and for good reason. It's a fun, heartwarming, and enjoyable movie that will make you laugh, cry, and root for its lovable characters. If you're a fan of westerns, comedies, or just good movies in general, give Lightning Jack a watch.

Lightning Jack is a 1994 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 38 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.5.