Movie #34- "Rango" (2011)

Pixar has set the bar high for animation... and even they can't always hit the mark.  Animated films appear to have more complex themes, better story telling, and appeal to adults as well as kids.  The balancing act to attract an audience both young and old is difficult, one that not all animated films can accomplish.
That's where "Rango" caught me off guard.  The plot of a lizard in the Old West struck me with the impression of a kid's movie with a few tossed off jokes for the adults.  Instead, I got a darker story of an individual assuming a different identity while trying to find himself.  You know, the standard philosophical questions for an animated feature.
Kids will still enjoy it as the visuals jump from the screen with some kinetic energy.  But several of the references (including Hunter S. Thompson) will likely be aimed more for the adults along with a couple gunfights that also ensue.
Johnny Depp needs to expand his voice-over universe and Timothy Olyphant nails the voice of a Clint Eastwood like spirit.  A little too long, but proof that not all animation has to be for kids.

Rating: 7/10
Movies I've previously seen: 3
First time viewings: 31