First image of Johnny Depp and Armie Hammer from Verbinski’s The Lone Ranger!

The first image from THE LONE RANGER has saddled up, featuring the titular character of The Lone Ranger (Armie Hammer) and Tonto (Johnny Depp).

Take a look:

Definitely a deviation from the “classic” look for both characters, but a unique one nonetheless.  Depp’s incarnation of Tonto looks more akin to his Jack Sparrow when captured by the natives in the second PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN film.  However, Depp always seems to have a plan, even if no one else is aware of it, so I have little doubt that his vision for the character is at least thought out.

Hammer looks sharp as THE LONE RANGER, the main change for him is the jacket and toned down red scarf that was always so prevalent in past incarnations of the character.  Overall, I’m game for this film.  I’m a fan of the character and loved THE LEGEND OF THE LONE RANGER as a kid, so I’m hopeful this will recapture some of that magic for a new generation.

Director Gore Verbinski is currently filming the adventures of THE LONE RANGER in New Mexico along with stars William Fichtner, Tom Wilkenson, James Badge Dale, Ruth Wilson, and Helena Bonham-Carter. 

Produced by Jerry Bruckheimer, the film is expected to be released on May 31, 2013.