FeatureWestern

The Lone Ranger (1938): cast, story & where to watch

1938 · Film

The Lone Ranger poster

Released in 1938, The Lone Ranger is a western film directed by William Witney, running about 264 minutes. “HEIGH-YO, SILVER! NOW WE'RE ON THE SCREEN! The three greatest characters of radio brought to vital screen life in the outstanding serial entertainment of all time.” — that tagline sets the tone.

What it’s about. In 1865, Captain Mark Smith of the Confederate Army leads a band of deserters to conquer Texas and rule it as a dictator. In one of his first actions, he captures and assumes the identity of Texas' new Finance Commissioner, Colonel Marcus Jeffries, after having the real man murdered. When a contingent of Texas Rangers enters the territory, Snead, one of Smith's men, leads them into an ambush by Smith's "troopers". The Rangers are apparently wiped out, although one injured survivor is left. The survivor, nursed back to health by Tonto, swears to avenge the massacre and defeat "Colonel Jeffries" and his men.

Who’s in it. The Lone Ranger stars Bruce Bennett as Bert Rogers, Lee Powell as Allen King, Chief Thundercloud as Tonto and Lynne Roberts as Joan Blanchard, among others.

Where to watch. Streaming options change often. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch The Lone Ranger page.

If you liked it. Fans of The Lone Ranger tend to enjoy The Good, the Bad and the Ugly, Django Unchained, Once Upon a Time in the West and For a Few Dollars More.

Frequently asked

Where can I watch The Lone Ranger (1938)?
Streaming, rental and purchase options for The Lone Ranger change frequently. Check our where-to-watch page for the latest availability in your country.
Who stars in The Lone Ranger?
The Lone Ranger stars Bruce Bennett, Lee Powell, Chief Thundercloud, Lynne Roberts and Stanley Andrews.
When was The Lone Ranger released?
The Lone Ranger was released in 1938, with a runtime of about 264 minutes.