Film & TV

Film Review: The Lone Ranger

Lone-RangerBeginning life as a radio serial in 1933, the Lone Ranger has become an enduring hero. Through many films, comics and TV shows, his cowboy heroics have dazzled generations. Whilst the Western genre has gone in and out of favour over the years, the Lone Ranger continues to thrive. This latest incarnation breathes new energy into an American icon as his brand of daring-do rocks the always wild west.

John Reid (Armie Hammer) is a law-man steadfastly protecting his turf. When a group of nefarious villains hatch a plan to take over America, he decides to fight back. Donning a mask and calling himself the Lone Ranger, this western avenger represents justice. With Native American warrior Tonto (Johnny Depp) as his companion, both clean up the wild streets any way they can.

Directed by Gore Verbinksi and starring Johnny Depp you’d think you were watching another Pirates of the Caribbean film. Sharing more than a few similarities, The Lone Ranger is yet another ludicrous romp. Relying heavily on Depp’s performance, it’s a fun ride never once stopping for breath. Despite its long run-time, it glides along smoothly with the unbelievably ridiculous action sequences consistently amusing. Whilst the absurd humour devalues the characters somewhat, it sets out to entertain, which it mostly does.

The performers have a grand time with a script mixing comedy and drama well. Depp’s casting as a Native American may not be politically correct, although his role has much chemistry with Hammer’s stoic hero. The various people they encounter reveal much about their personae and helps viewers become engaged in their many adventures. The cinematography is a huge plus as it expertly captures the grand vistas in which our heroes live.

The Lone Ranger shouldn’t be taken too seriously and is a slice of pure nonsense. It’s an entertaining mega-buck spectacle revelling in its over-the-top escapades with the masked hero celebrating his return to screens in fine style.

Reviewed by Patrick Moore

Rating out of 10: 7

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