The Lone Ranger is a 2013 American action western film produced by Walt Disney Pictures and Jerry Bruckheimer Films and directed by Gore Verbinski. Based on the radio series of the same name, the film stars Johnny Depp as Tonto, the narrator of the events, and Armie Hammer as John Reid. It relates Tonto's memories of the duo's earliest efforts to subdue the immoral actions of the corrupt and bring justice in the American Old West. William Fichtner, Barry Pepper, Ruth Wilson, James Badge Dale, Tom Wilkinson and Helena Bonham Carter also are featured in supporting roles. It is the first theatrical film featuring the Lone Ranger and Tonto characters in more than 32 years. Filming was plagued with production problems and budgetary concerns, which at one point led to the film's premature cancellation. The film was released theatrically in the United States on July 3, 2013. The Lone Ranger received mixed to negative reviews in the United States and mixed to positive reviews outside the country. Critics praised the acting performances, western style, but criticized the long length and lack of originality. [ - ]