Andrew Jenson | rawr reviews
Gore Verbinski, director of “Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl” and “The Ring,” brings to cinemas the classic American icon of good, justice and morality with “The Lone Ranger.” I’m not sure he was the best choice for bringing back such an icon, but there it is.While I am familiar with the classic TV series from the 1950s, I didn’t grow up watching it. I do remember how child-friendly it was. It wasn’t spectacular or especially influential to me, but its innocence and naïveté had a certain charm which made it memorable and endearing.
Such child-friendliness hardly exists in the remake and the film blunders. It is overly dark at points and reeks of “Pirates of the Caribbean” direction. Where it tries to present a more adult story, it needed to lighten the atmosphere and fully embrace its silly premise. Essentially, it needed to be fun. Not to say it entirely threw out the fun or silliness, but the film got just as ugly and would overwhelm its lighter aspects.
For sure, “The Lone Ranger” should not be a PG–13 movie. Putting the Lone Ranger in such a world is equivalent to putting Roy Rogers in the world of “The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly” — it doesn’t make sense and it doesn’t work.
The basic premise may need work, but the cinematography is gorgeous. Verbinski took advantage of the film’s Southwestern locations and it doesn’t fail to dazzle the eye. I was in absolute glee seeing the vast panoramas, alongside the Lone Ranger’s classic theme.
Johnny Depp and Armie Hammer have wonderful chemistry as Tonto and the Lone Ranger, respectively. The film builds their relationship and balances it well. Their friendship grows naturally and seems genuine in all respects. If only they were featured in a better story.
Additionally, I must give Hans Zimmer his due. While his “Man of Steel” soundtrack was disappointing, his work in “The Lone Ranger” is marvelous. He builds the music perfectly, and it was a pleasure to hear.
Even with its music, lead actors and cinematography working for it, I cannot recommend this film to anyone — especially families. The remake is great occasionally, but it’s not worth the price of admission. If you’re in the mood for the Lone Ranger, watch the old shows starring Clayton Moore, or listen to the original radio program. They’re fun, entertaining and appropriate for all ages, which is how the Lone Ranger should be.