Ep 35. El Toro

The Lone Ranger season 3 episode 35, "El Toro," follows the titular ranger and his faithful companion Tonto as they investigate a string of robberies that have been blamed on a local Mexican rancher named El Toro. Despite being hailed as a hero by his fellow Mexicans, El Toro's reputation in the white community is less favorable, with many viewing him as a dangerous criminal.

As the Lone Ranger begins to delve deeper into the case, he soon realizes that the truth is far more complicated than it first appeared. El Toro is not the mastermind behind the robberies, but rather a victim of circumstance who has been framed by a group of unscrupulous outlaws seeking to profit from his downfall. With the help of Tonto and a few brave allies, the Lone Ranger sets out to clear El Toro's name and bring the real criminals to justice.

The episode is filled with all the classic elements that fans of the show have come to love, including thrilling action sequences, heartwarming moments of camaraderie between the Lone Ranger and Tonto, and a thought-provoking message about the importance of fairness, justice, and tolerance in a world that all too often falls prey to fear, prejudice, and violence.

The performances of the lead actors are particularly noteworthy, with Clayton Moore imbuing the Lone Ranger with the perfect blend of stoicism, charisma, and gruff determination, and Jay Silverheels bringing a sense of humor and pathos to the character of Tonto that helps to round out his portrayal as more than just a sidekick. The supporting cast is equally strong, with Fernando Alvarado delivering a standout performance as El Toro that manages to capture both his bravery and his vulnerability.

The episode also benefits from the skilled direction of veteran TV director George B. Seitz Jr., who manages to keep the tension high throughout and infuses the action scenes with a real sense of energy and excitement. The production values, while somewhat dated by modern standards, are still impressive for their time, with gorgeous location shots and detailed period costumes and sets that help to transport viewers back to the Old West.

Overall, "El Toro" is a standout episode of The Lone Ranger that showcases all the elements that have made the show a beloved classic for over half a century. With its thrilling storyline, strong performances, and timely themes, it is a must-watch for fans of Westerns and classic TV alike.