Review of Rango (2011)

Rango (2011), directed by Gore Verbinski and produced by the renowned animation studio Industrial Light & Magic (ILM), is an animated film that defies expectations and offers a refreshing take on the western genre. With its eccentric characters, beautifully crafted animation, and sharp wit, Rango stands out not only as a family-friendly film but also as a playful homage to the spaghetti westerns of the past. The film is both a parody and a celebration of the genre, providing a compelling, adventurous story wrapped in a vibrant, visually stunning world.

What sets Rango apart from other animated films is its mature themes, engaging characters, and the remarkable way it combines classic western tropes with a unique sense of humor and heart. It’s a story about identity, heroism, and the power of storytelling — all packaged within the hilarious and quirky antics of a chameleon.

Plot: A Fish Out of Water Story

The film follows Rango (voiced by Johnny Depp), a pet chameleon with a flair for dramatic acting who, after accidentally being thrown out of his comfortable life in a terrarium, finds himself stranded in the Mojave Desert. Rango is a wanderer, unsure of who he truly is and yearning for something more than his dull existence. As he stumbles into the small, lawless town of Dirt, he takes on the persona of a gunslinging hero, convincing the residents that he is the legendary “Rango.”

Dirt, a dusty and rundown town inhabited by a variety of anthropomorphic animals, is facing a severe water crisis. The town’s citizens, desperate for a solution, look to Rango to be their savior, and he quickly becomes the town’s sheriff. However, Rango is woefully unprepared for the role and is forced to grapple with his own inadequacies while trying to uncover the true cause of the water shortage, all while contending with the dark forces controlling the town.

Rango’s journey is one of self-discovery. He starts as a character full of bravado and self-doubt but gradually learns what it means to be a true hero. His quest is not just about saving the town, but also about understanding who he is, what he stands for, and how his actions can shape the world around him.

A Western With a Twist

Rango is first and foremost a love letter to the western genre. From its visuals to its music, the film evokes classic westerns with a modern twist. The character of Rango himself is a direct reference to the “cowboy with a past” archetype often seen in western films, though Rango’s backstory is constantly shifting, making his self-image unreliable and unpredictable. He’s not just any hero — he’s a flawed, insecure one who grows throughout the film in an unexpectedly emotional way.

The film’s setting, the dusty town of Dirt, is a direct nod to the traditional western towns where much of the genre’s action takes place. The town is rundown, inhabited by eccentric characters like Beans (voiced by Isla Fisher), a no-nonsense iguana, and a variety of odd animals that serve as Rango’s allies and adversaries. The way the film incorporates classic western elements — such as the “showdown,” a mysterious villain, and the hero’s reluctant rise to prominence — is both clever and refreshing.

However, what makes Rango stand out is the way it subverts traditional western tropes. The film isn’t afraid to acknowledge the absurdity of some of these conventions while still embracing them. For example, the town’s desperate need for water is not just a plot device; it also serves as a commentary on resource management and the impact of greed. The villainous forces in Rango are not just caricatures of evil, but representations of the moral corruption that can arise from the pursuit of power.

The film also presents a unique blend of animation and style. The visual design of the characters, especially Rango himself, is distinct from typical animated films. Rango is not your cute, stylized animated protagonist. His face is full of wrinkles, his eyes are large and expressive, and his appearance overall feels more realistic than what you might expect from a family film. This gritty realism adds to the sense of a lived-in world, making the film feel like a western with a surreal, almost dreamlike quality.

Themes of Identity, Heroism, and Power

One of the most striking aspects of Rango is its exploration of identity and heroism. Rango’s initial role as sheriff is a case of pure fiction; he’s playing a part he has no real qualifications for, and his bravado is clearly a facade. The film plays with the idea of self-perception and the narrative we create about ourselves. As Rango’s journey unfolds, he is forced to confront his own self-doubt and realize that being a hero doesn’t come from adopting a persona, but from embracing one’s true nature.

The theme of storytelling also plays a crucial role in Rango. Throughout the film, characters are repeatedly reminded that the story they tell about themselves is often more important than the truth. Rango’s growth as a character is tied to his ability to accept the responsibility of telling the truth, both to himself and to others. In this way, Rango becomes not just a traditional western, but a meditation on the role of stories in shaping our perceptions of the world.

Another key theme is the abuse of power and greed. The villain of the story, the corrupt corporation run by the character of the Mayor (voiced by Ned Beatty), manipulates the town’s water supply for personal gain, serving as a clear metaphor for the environmental and political issues facing the real world. This subtext gives the film more weight, allowing it to resonate with both children and adults on a deeper level.

Animation: A Visual Masterpiece

One of the most impressive elements of Rango is its animation. The film was created by the visual effects powerhouse ILM, which is known for its work on live-action blockbusters like the Pirates of the Caribbean series. The animation is detailed and rich, with a strong emphasis on texture and lighting that gives the world of Dirt a unique, almost tactile quality. The desert setting is brought to life with stunning vistas and intricate details, creating a visually immersive experience.

Rango’s character design stands out as one of the film’s most iconic aspects. His exaggerated, expressive features — from his bulging eyes to his scaly skin — make him one of the most memorable animated protagonists in recent years. The characters around him are equally well-designed, with each animal in Dirt given its own distinctive look and personality.

The film also makes creative use of camera angles, framing, and movement, often drawing inspiration from the conventions of the western genre. The use of wide shots and sweeping desert vistas emphasizes the isolation of the characters, while the tight close-ups during moments of tension add to the suspense. The action scenes, including the climactic showdown, are thrilling and visually dynamic, with the fluidity of the animation enhancing the intensity.

Johnny Depp: A Perfect Voice for Rango

Johnny Depp, known for his eccentric roles, brings his signature quirkiness and depth to the character of Rango. Depp’s portrayal adds layers to the character, making him simultaneously vulnerable and endearing. His voice work is full of energy, with Rango’s often over-the-top bravado providing the perfect balance to his moments of self-doubt. Depp’s performance is a key element in making Rango a memorable and relatable character, and his unique approach to the role elevates the film as a whole.

Isla Fisher provides an excellent voice performance as Beans, Rango’s love interest and ally. Her character is smart, independent, and resourceful, and Fisher’s voice work adds a grounded, rational presence to the film, balancing out Rango’s more eccentric nature. Other notable voice actors include Bill Nighy as the villainous Rattlesnake Jake, and Alfred Molina as the sarcastic, no-nonsense road agent, all of whom contribute to the film’s delightful ensemble.

A Unique and Thought-Provoking Animated Film

In a sea of family-friendly, brightly colored animated films, Rango stands out as a bold, intelligent, and visually stunning creation that’s not afraid to challenge its audience. With its unique take on the western genre, memorable characters, and mature themes of identity, heroism, and power, Rango is a film that resonates on multiple levels. It is a movie that appeals not only to children looking for an adventurous story, but also to adults who appreciate its deeper reflections on society, storytelling, and personal growth.

Rango is a remarkable achievement in animation — a film that manages to be both a nostalgic tribute to the western genre and a fresh, original take on animated storytelling. Its mix of humor, heart, and visual brilliance makes it one of the standout animated films of the 21st century, and a timeless adventure that will continue to captivate audiences for years to come.