El Diablo

Year: 1990

Runtime: 115 mins

Language: English

Director: Peter Markle

WesternComedy

Mild‑mannered teacher Billy Ray Smith (Anthony Edwards) vows to bring his student’s kidnapper to justice, but he lacks any cowboy experience. He enlists a quick‑draw gunslinger (Joe Pantoliano) and a hard‑hearted cowboy (Louis Gossett Jr.) to aid him. With their help, Smith finally has a chance to capture the ruthless bandit El Diablo (Robert Beltran).

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El Diablo (1990) – Full Plot Summary & Ending Explained

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Last Updated: October 09, 2025 at 15:03

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Unlikely Hero Comedies like El Diablo

Inept but determined underdogs find unlikely mentors on a humorous quest.If you enjoyed the humorous journey of Billy Ray Smith in El Diablo, you'll love these films featuring bumbling heroes who partner with unlikely mentors. Discover movies with similar themes of comedic incompetence, underdog spirit, and action-packed, lighthearted quests.

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Narrative Summary

The narrative centers on an ill-equipped protagonist who must undertake a significant challenge far beyond their normal life. Their growth is fueled by a mix of sheer determination and the guidance of one or more cynical but capable mentors. The plot follows a classic quest structure, with humorous set pieces arising from the hero's awkwardness, ultimately building to a triumphant, satisfying conclusion.

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Narrative Summary

Stories in this thread use the Western genre as a framework for comedy and character-driven fun. The narratives are straightforward, often involving a clear goal like a rescue or a chase, and unfold at a steady pace. Conflict is present but balanced by humorous dialogue, situational comedy, and the inherent charm of its quirky cast, leading to a happy resolution.

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These films are united by their specific mix of genre and tone: the Western setting combined with a light, comedic approach. They share a medium intensity, steady pacing, and a focus on delivering an adventurous, humorous experience rather than a gritty or dramatic one.

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Characters, Settings & Themes in El Diablo

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