'Lone Ranger' starts shooting in N. Mexico Johnny Depp will play the roll of sidekick, Tonto, in Disney's big-screen adaptation of "The Lone Ranger." UPI/David Silpa ALBUQUERQUE, Feb. 29 (UPI) -- Shooting has begun in New Mexico on Disney's big-screen adaptation of "The Lone Ranger," starring Armie Hammer and Johnny Depp, producers said. Hammer is playing the title character in the comedy-western, while Depp will play his sidekick Tonto in the film Jerry Bruckheimer is producing and Gore Verbinski is directing. The characters previously appeared in comic books, a TV show and numerous films. News said Wednesday "The Lone Ranger" shoot is starting with exterior shots and studio work in New Mexico. The production then will move on to Arizona, Utah and Colorado. The film's cast will also include frequent Depp collaborator Helena Bonham Carter, as well as Tom Wilkinson, Barry Pepper, William Fichtner and Ruth Wilson, E! said. Depp, Bruckheimer and Verbinski previously collaborated on the "Pirates of the Caribbean" blockbuster franchise.