By Dylan Fair
Staff Writer
In a day and age where animated films are simply created to fit a money-making mold, Paramount Pictures’ “Rango” strays away from the pack.
With its combination of beautiful animation and a stellar cast, “Rango” proves to be one of the best films of the year.
“Rango” tells a simple western tale of an unnamed chameleon voiced by Johnny Depp. Through a freak car accident, he is freed from his cage and finds himself in the small town of Dirt, whereupon he takes up a gunslinger mentality and the name Rango in order seem like a hero. After his ascension to town sheriff, he must protect Dirt.
The main dilemma in the story comes with the theft of the town’s remaining water supply. Accompanied by his love interest, Beans (Isla Fisher), Rango and a slew of other critters must venture out to bring their lifeblood from home.
The film succeeds mainly on the strength of its brilliantly written script. While presenting audiences with a somewhat overdone story, writer John Logan has crafted an absolutely hilarious work that blends slapstick comedy with black humor.
Surprisingly, the film veers more toward adult subject matter than child-friendly material with unexpectedly dark themes and the occasional curse word.
Even with an exceptional script, the movie was truly brought to life by an incredibly gifted cast. Depp brought charisma to his reptilian character with his voice acting experience from previous films such as “Corpse Bride.” The true stars of the show, however, were Billy Nighy and Timothy Olyphant.
Nighy channels the villain of the story, Rattle Snake Jake, with a menacing, frightening air not seen in many children’s films. Olyphant portrays a Clint Eastwood-esque figure as the “Spirit of the West,” a god-like entity who reminds Rango no man can walk out on his destiny.
By far the most compelling feature of “Rango” is its breathtaking animation. The state-of-the-art CGI technology takes a step further what films like “How to Train Your Dragon” and “Toy Story 3” did a year ago. Features like scales, feathers and especially water are uncannily lifelike.
Director Gore Verbinski was able to put this marvelous western together with a combination of morality and good spirit. “Rango” is a wild ride for kids and parents alike with a very quick pace embodied by delightful chase scenes. The movie also struck a positive chord with parents through its message of the importance of heroes in the world and the need for something to believe in.
“Rango,” with its quirky nature and dazzling visuals, is an early contender for Best Animated Film. While very different, Verbinski’s newest film edges out “The Ring” as his best movie to date. For Depp, it’s his strongest film since “Sweeny Todd.” “Rango” serves as great entertainment for the spring season.
Regardless of age, film lovers would be missing not only a great animated movie, but a fantastic film in general by not seeing “Rango.” Adults and children alike can find something to connect with in regard to the quality aspects of this film.“Rango” is rated PG and is currently playing at theaters nationwide.
I largely agree.