For some Native Americans, new 'Lone Ranger' movie is personal
Posted at: 07/25/2012 11:18 AM
| Updated at: 07/25/2012 11:24 AM
By: MANUEL VALDES Associated Press
 Photo by Jerry Bruckheimer |
SEATTLE (AP) - To most people, the upcoming "Lone Ranger" movie is just a normal Disney blockbuster featuring action, adventure and Johnny Depp looking over-the-top.
But to some Native Americans, it's personal.
The making of the movie -which is being shot partly in New Mexico - and the announcement that Depp portrays sidekick Tonto, have reawakened feelings about a character that has drawn much criticism for being a Hollywood creation that spreads stereotypes.
The Lone Ranger is still in production, but Indian Country has been abuzz for months, with some welcoming a fresh take on the show's old characters.
Parts were filmed on the Navajo Nation with full tribal support, and an Oklahoma tribe recently made Depp an honorary member.
For others, the film represents a sore spot - one that goes back to the 1950s television version of Tonto, who spoke pidgin, wore buckskin and lacked any real cultural traits.
(Copyright 2012 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)
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