Howdy Pards,

Well, I reckon anyone who knows Wild Ol' Dan knows that I am from the generation that grew up with Clayton Moore and Jay Silverheels and I will forever be faithful to their memory and their legacy.

Having said that, I found Disney's new Lone Ranger with Armie Hammer and Johnny Depp to be one awesome Western! Fresh and new and action packed.

I saw it this mornin' first thing...and after readin' all those negative critical reviews I really didn't know what to expect...some of them make it sound like it's the worst movie ever made. But, just as I suspected they wouldn't know a good western if they saw one. Disney's new Lone Ranger adventure is one good western.

First, let's talk about the breath-taking locations...Monument Valley, New Mexico, Utah...this film is a celebration of and a tribute to the Great American West.

The actors? Outstanding performances by one and all. Johnny Depp shines. Armie Hammer wears the mask well. All the supporting players are excellent...and Silver...my gosh...Silver puts in an astonishing performance.

Faithful to the legend? Yes. This is the origin story of course.
So, ambushed rangers, the great horse Silver, silver bullet, mask from the vest of his brother...William Tell Overture...it's all there.

Stunts and Action? My gosh...it was amazing...delightful...and a joy to watch.

Humor? Yes...lots of it.

Go see this movie with an open mind and enjoy the ride. See if your blood doesn't stir when the William Tell Overture is heard at the end. Mine sure did.

There are some differences from the TV and Radio programs, of course...but overall this is a joyous return to those thrilling days of yesteryear. The new twists add spice to a thoroughly delicious experience...a thrill packed ride and then some!

I'll be buying this on Blu-ray the minute it comes out this fall...and I'll probably be headed back to the theater to see it again this week.

Let me know what you thought when you see it. And, my gosh, whatever you do...GO SEE IT!

Adios for now. Talk to ya on down the trail.

Wild Ol' Dan