The Jack Bull

19991h 56m Directed by John Badham
6.3
(95 votes)
WesternTV Movie

Overview

When the law fails to punish a fellow rancher that has abused his horses, a Wyoming horse trader sacrifices it all in a quest for justice.

The Jack Bull

A Quest for Justice in the Wild West: Unpacking "The Jack Bull"

Noura Haddad
Noura HaddadDec 4, 2025
The Jack Bull, a 1999 TV movie, is a classic Western tale of justice, morality, and the unwavering commitment to standing up for what is right. The film tells the story of a Wyoming horse trader who, driven by a sense of responsibility and outrage, takes the law into his own hands after witnessing the brutal abuse of horses by a fellow rancher. With its straightforward narrative and unapologetic portrayal of the harsh realities of the American West, The Jack Bull is a thought-provoking and emotionally charged film that explores the complexities of justice, loyalty, and the human condition.\n

One of the standout aspects of The Jack Bull is its thoughtful pacing and character development. The film takes its time to establish the protagonist's motivations and backstory, allowing the audience to form a deep connection with the character and become invested in his quest for justice. The supporting cast is equally well-developed, with each character bringing their own unique perspective and nuance to the story. The cinematography is also noteworthy, capturing the breathtaking beauty of the Wyoming landscape and immersing the viewer in the world of the film. However, the movie's TV movie origins are occasionally evident, with some of the production values and action sequences feeling a bit lacking in comparison to bigger-budget Westerns.\n

Despite some of its technical limitations, The Jack Bull remains a powerful and affecting film that lingers in the mind long after the credits roll. The movie's themes of justice, morality, and personal responsibility are timeless and universal, and the film's thoughtful exploration of these issues is both nuanced and thought-provoking. The Jack Bull is not a flashy or action-packed Western, but rather a contemplative and character-driven drama that rewards patience and attention. With its strong performances, beautiful cinematography, and unflinching portrayal of the human condition, The Jack Bull is a must-see for fans of the Western genre and anyone looking for a compelling and emotionally resonant film. While it may not be a perfect movie, The Jack Bull is a hidden gem that is well worth seeking out for its thoughtful storytelling and memorable characters.

CAST

John Cusack
John Cusack
Myrl Redding
John Goodman
John Goodman
Judge Tolliver
L.Q. Jones
L.Q. Jones
Henry Ballard
Miranda Otto
Miranda Otto
Cora Redding
John Savage
John Savage
Slater
Rex Linn
Rex Linn
Shelby Dykes
John C. McGinley
John C. McGinley
Woody
Kurt Fuller
Kurt Fuller
Conrad
Drake Bell
Drake Bell
Cage Redding
Glenn Morshower
Glenn Morshower
Col. Jeffries

Trailer

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