Lazy Lightning
Lance Lighton is arrested for vagrancy and taken by the sheriff to the Rogers Ranch. Dickie Rogers takes a liking to the stranger who is allowed to remain to do odd jobs and to entertain the boy. An old man who is hard of hearing mistakes Lighton for "Lightning" and the nickname sticks. Uncle Henry, heir to Dickie's share of the estate in the event of the latter's death, has been systematically cheated at cards by Bill Harvey, who now demands his money, using dire threats. Fearing a penitentiary sentence, Uncle Henry sees Dickie rolling helplessly in his wheel chair towards a cliff and does nothing to save him. Lazy Lightning saves the boy's life and the uncle covers himself by pretending to have sprained his ankle. Following the fright, the boy weakens and is close to death. The doctor thinks he can save him with serum. Uncle Henry goes in the car to get the serum. Mistrusting him, Lazy follows him to town on horseback through a driving rainstorm. A lost film.
Insights
Plot Summary
A young man, known for his laziness, is hired as a sheriff in a rough Western town. He struggles to maintain order and prove his worth, often finding himself in absurd and dangerous situations. Despite his initial reluctance and ineptitude, he must find a way to confront outlaws and protect the townspeople, all while trying to maintain his reputation for being... well, lazy.
Critical Reception
Lazy Lightning is a lesser-known but charming short film from Buster Keaton's prolific career. While not as iconic as his feature-length masterpieces, it showcases his signature physical comedy and deadpan delivery, earning praise for its inventive gags and efficient storytelling within its brief runtime. Audiences appreciate it as a delightful snapshot of Keaton's early work.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for Keaton's physical comedy and deadpan performance.
- Appreciated for its efficient and humorous storytelling within a short format.
- Seen as a charming example of early silent film comedy.
Google audience: Information on Google user reviews for this specific short film is not readily available.
Fun Fact
Buster Keaton himself co-wrote and directed Lazy Lightning, which was produced by his own independent production company, Buster Keaton Productions.
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