Rango

Rango: Film, 2011 Studio: Nickelodeon Movies Director: Gore Verbinski Run time: 107 minutes.

Plot: Rango is a chameleon who gets dropped in the Mojave desert and sets off on a wild west adventure that reveals a cast of characters including a cactus mouse, iguana, armadillo, desert tortoise, rabbit, rattlesnake, mole and a gila monster among others.  The “townsfolk” of Dirt are parched and desperate as the precious water supply is dwindling and foul play is suspected.  Rango takes on a persona that gives hope to the citizens that a hero has arrived and he is named sheriff, but his persona is all an act.  Gunfights, posses, bank robberies and a corrupt mayor all play into the story.  Rango uncovers that the mayor has secretly been diverting the town’s water supply for his own greed and profit.  The mayor calls in Rattlesnake Jake, the meanest, toughest, and most notorious gunslinger to get rid of Rango.  Jake reveals Rango as a fraud who has lied to the townsfolk and is run out of town in humiliation.  Rango has an encounter with the “Spirit of the West”, realizes his destiny is back in Dirt and returns for one more attempt to win back the trust of the citizens and save the town.

Review/Personal thoughts: This computer animated film is a winner. There is non-stop action, humor, adventure, heroism and realism from a bunch of critters living out the old wild west life. The visuals and animation are remarkable and will capture and hold the attention of viewers.  And many human themes are explored in Rango: finding oneself, courage, corruption, defending the defenseless, justice and the power of working together. The female character Beans is actually a great role model for girls as she shows strength, courage and intelligence.  It is amazing to me how an animated film can be so entertaining and the same time provide valuable themes.  This film is not out on DVD yet but tweens will love the theater experience of Rango... Two thumbs up!

Rated: PG

Interest Level: Ages 9 and up