Review of 'Rango'
Rango (voiced by Johnny Depp) is a cocky, self-assured, pet chameleon who seeks out action and excitement. After accidentally falling out of a car he finds himself in the deep dessert where the local wildlife see easy pickings. Managing to avoid being eaten Rango discovers an old west town called “Dirt” that is experiencing a severe draught. Bigging up his non-existent talents as a gun-slinger and lucking out in his defeat of a town bully. But he may have bitten off more than he can chew as the town mayor (a turtle voiced by Ned Beatty) appoints Rango town sheriff. Discovering there is only water for five days in a vault that is then robbed, Rango goes in search of where the water has gone…
A fun film that, despite the rather simple plot, manages to keep you guessing and entertained throughout. This is a story of the redemption of a rather deceitful chameleon as he is forced to make good on his word, growing up in the process. A musical quartet of owls periodically provides a rather depressing commentary on the action with the film music provided by the amazing Hans Zimmer. This is not the only big name involved with not only Johnny Depp in the leading role, but also Ned Beatty as the Mayor, Bill Nighy as Rattlesnake Jake, Harry Dean Stanton as Balthazar and Ray Winstone as Bad Bill. With this much talent it might be wondered why this film did not do so well when it was released but I think it might have to do with a lead character that never really appeals to the audience, while looking unusual and quirky he is not what you might call “cute” and with a selfish, dislikeable personality we never really buy into his plight. Certainly there is lots of action and it does look good but it lacks a heart…
An unusual animation that, despite an incredible collection of acting talent, never really pulls us in.
Rating: “It is OK but I have some issues”
Review Date: 2021-04-18
Directed by: Gore Verbinski
Studio: Paramount Pictures
Year: 2011
Length: 107 minutes
Genre: Animation
https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1192628/