In my old age, I have taken to reviewing the fantastic television plays of the 50's and 60's. I cannot help but be "stirred" by the opening strains of William Tell Overture. I know I am about to enter the western fantasy world of the Lo-o-o-one Ranger. What a ridiculous premise. A stoic, resolute purveyor of justice riding a huge white horse called Silver accompanied by his ever faithful companion, Tonto rides through the West setting wrong to right wherever he goes. As kids, we ate it up! No matter what deviance the bad guys cooked up (and some schemes were quite intricate) right was right. And the Lone Ranger was always right! But he was not always Clayton Moore. John Hart subbed for 52 episodes. He was a bigger man and an excellent horseman but eventually Moore was rehired. American audiences don't like change. (Which is why so idiot politicians are elected over and over, but I digress) But in all my internet research, I cannot find a credit for the symphony that recorded that particular theme. The impossible power and nobility of that orchestral performance matched the justice the Masked Man dispensed at lightning speed. It moves me to this day. I don't feel as through I was being patronized or talked down to by the producers or creative force behind the series. Elevated and relieved that there were those that protected and advanced moral value without asking for anything in return. Touched at the ending question: Who was that masked man? A tear swells as the music fades in, louder..."Why don't you know...? That's the Lo-o-one Ranger! Hi ho Silver, away!
Review of The Lone Ranger
