14 Years Later, This Animated Movie Is Still The Most Innovative Western

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The Western film genre is a classic, and remarkably consistent, form of storytelling. It’s been around since the very beginning of cinema, essentially starting with Edwin S. Porter’s 1903 film, The Great Train Robbery. Many consider this to be the most influential Western ever made, as its basic structure continues to inspire filmmakers today – you can even see echoes of it in modern movies like Rango.

I’ve always been fascinated by The Great Train Robbery. It’s incredible to think it wasn’t just a thrilling Western, but actually the very first narrative film ever created! To me, that makes the Western genre so special – it’s like it’s about the birth of America itself, telling the story of how the country grew westward, all while also being the genre that essentially started the entire movie industry. It’s a genre about its own origins, which is pretty mind-blowing when you think about it.

Westerns that were once overlooked are gaining new fans, likely because the issues they explore feel relevant to current events. The genre often examines the impact of progress and change, which gives these films a lasting appeal. Some of the best Westerns made after the golden age particularly focus on these themes.

Rango Has The Elements Of A Classic Western Movie

Gore Verbinski’s Rango is a modern take on the Western, reimagining classic stories for today’s audiences. The conflict between nature and humanity is a frequent theme in animation – famously seen in the beautiful and original film Princess Mononoke – but Rango specifically adapts this idea within the framework of a Western.

Although the film blends in some contemporary ideas, it remains firmly rooted in the Western genre. It features classic Western elements – a mysterious hero steps up to protect his town from a corrupt authority colluding with criminals – but doesn’t stray too far from these familiar tropes.

The movie also touches on the classic frontier story in a smaller way. Rango solves the town’s biggest issue by bravely exploring previously off-limits and scary areas. At the same time, the mayor is secretly plotting to take control by building a new, modern town that would completely change life for everyone who lives there.

The Frontier Myth Becomes A Hero’s Journey In Rango

Many classic Western films are based on real events and tap into the idea of the American frontier as a place where anyone could succeed through hard work. This belief fueled westward expansion, inspiring people to seek out new and better lives.

The idea that courage leads to a better life is beautifully captured by the ‘Spirit of the West’ – a vision supposedly seen by true heroes when they take risks. This spirit is what motivates Rango’s journey, helping him find his purpose and ultimately become the sheriff he’s meant to be.

The movie Rango follows a classic storytelling pattern, similar to the hero’s journey. What sets it apart is its fresh take on the Western genre. Unlike typical Western heroes who seem effortlessly skilled and confident, Rango is revealed to be less polished. This makes you wonder if those legendary Western characters had hidden flaws and vulnerabilities that were never shown in the stories we tell about them.

Gore Verbinski’s Experience Making Pirates Elevates Rango

One of the most interesting things director Verbinski does in Rango is blend the typically serious and rough-and-tumble Western genre with lighthearted, and sometimes silly, humor. This is particularly clear in the way Rango makes jokes – even outrageous ones about his family – as he tries to build himself up as a hero, like claiming a snake is his brother to explain his background.

It’s easy to see why this action-packed adventure is also hilarious – it was director Gore Verbinski’s first project after finishing the Pirates of the Caribbean films. Many fans consider Dead Man’s Chest the strongest sequel because its heightened humor perfectly matches the wild, energetic action.

Rango’s Animation Breathes Life Into Its Themes

Rango is notable as the only animated film directed by Gore Verbinski, and it’s so visually stunning that it makes you hope he’ll create another one. The movie’s animation is truly breathtaking – the beautiful, wide shots of the desert landscapes are captivating. The unique and quirky visual style also makes the world of Rango feel like a place you’d want to explore.

Despite a simple premise – a lizard becoming sheriff in a quirky animal town by battling a snake – Rango is surprisingly good. While the story itself is fairly predictable, the animation elevates the film, adding layers of meaning to both its visuals and overall message.

The film’s two biggest action scenes are successful thanks to its bold animation style. Rango doesn’t try to be realistic, and that’s a good thing – it fully embraces the possibilities of animation. This animation also makes even small events feel huge, as they would to the film’s animal characters like lizards, turtles, mice, and rattlesnakes.

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2026-01-04 22:41