Hi-Yo Action! Johnny Depp's Lone Ranger Finally Starts Shooting

Production has kicked off on the Gore Verbinski-directed action flick, starring Depp as Tonto, after nearly shutting down for good last year

The Lone Ranger is galloping forward at last.

Barely six months after being shelved due to budget concerns, production on Jerry Bruckheimer and director Gore Verbinski's latest collaboration with Disney—starring Armie Hammer as the titular hero and some dude named Johnny Depp as the Ranger's loyal pal Tonto—has kicked off in the southwestern United States.

The project was re-greenlighted in October, which makes it seem as if the comedic Western wasn't in limbo for very long.

But Bruckheimer first brought the idea to Disney in 2007 and Depp has been attached to it since 2008!

Now that's some Tonto-esque loyalty.

The reboot of the beloved comic strip/radio show/TV show/film series will feature Depp's character in a more prominent role—the tale of how John Reid became the justice-seeking Lone Ranger will be recounted by Tonto.

Joining Depp and Hammer for the ride are Helena Bonham Carter (we are shocked!), Tom Wilkinson, Barry Pepper, William Fichtner and Luther star Ruth Wilson.

The Lone Ranger is starting with exterior shots and studio work in New Mexico before moving on to locations in Arizona, Utah and Colorado.