The Lone Ranger was a favourite of many young boys and girls since the 1930s. With its’ beginnings on US radio in 1933, a series of books followed which described the efforts of the masked “Lone Ranger” to bring justice throughout the American Old West. An equally popular television series ran from 1949 – 1957, where a mass audience grew fond of the masked hero and his off-sider “Tonto”. These characters have become enduring icons of American pop culture.
Breathing life into this old favourite is director Gore Verbinski. This action and adventure western movie sees the lead characters of John Reid/The Lone Ranger (played by Armie Hammer) and Tonto (played by Johnny Depp) again on the side of good, engaging in the task of enforcing justice to those keen to avoid it. The Lone Ranger sits upon his beautiful white stallion named Silver and shouts “Hi-Ho Silver – Away” in traditional style.
Back from the city, John Reid is deputised as a Texas Ranger and finds himself on a mission to find the man that killed his brother. Narrated by Tonto, an American Indian spirit warrior, he recounts the untold tales that transformed John Reid, a man of the law, into a legend of justice. Using a large dose of humour, the two unlikely heroes must learn to work together and fight against greed and corruption. In another nod to tradition, we hear Tonto refer to the Lone Ranger as “Ke-mo-sah-bee”, which means “trusted friend”.
Despite The Lone Ranger being the main character, it is almost certain that Depp’s “Tonto” will steal the show with his comedic delivery and total role immersion. The Lone Ranger will be released in Australian cinemas next Thursday 4th July.
View Trailer Here
