Johnny Depp fans have plenty to look forward to, with two new films on the horizon—Ebenezer hitting theaters this holiday season and the action thriller Day Drinker following soon after. But for those wanting to revisit the actor's eclectic filmography, there's a hidden gem making its way to streaming. Rango, the Oscar-winning animated feature that showcased Depp's voice talents, will be available on Peacock starting November 2026.
While Depp is best known for his swashbuckling role in the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise—and there's been talk of his return—Rango remains a standout in his career, albeit one that often flies under the radar. The film was both a critical and commercial success, grossing over $245 million worldwide against a $125 million budget. It also took home the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature, a testament to its unique charm and storytelling.
A Love Letter to Classic Westerns
Directed by Gore Verbinski, who also helmed the first three Pirates movies, Rango is a loving tribute to the spaghetti Westerns of the 1960s and 1970s. The film's title is a nod to the classic Django, while its plot draws heavily from the neo-noir masterpiece Chinatown. Depp's character, a chameleon with delusions of grandeur, even channels the spirit of his own cult favorite, Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas.
These adult influences made Rango an unusual animated film. The late critic Roger Ebert noted in his four-star review, "The more movies you've seen, the more you may like it... But let's say you haven't seen lots of movies. Let's say you're a kid. It may surprise you because it's an animated film that plays like a real movie and really gets you involved."
Stellar Voice Cast and Critical Acclaim
Beyond Depp, the voice cast is a who's who of talent, including Abigail Breslin, Isla Fisher, Alfred Molina, and Bill Nighy. Their performances bring the quirky desert characters to life, adding depth to the film's offbeat humor and heartfelt moments.
On Rotten Tomatoes, Rango holds a "Certified Fresh" 88% approval rating, with the critics' consensus praising it as "a smart, giddily creative burst of beautifully animated entertainment." The film's visual style, which blends realistic CGI with exaggerated character designs, was groundbreaking at the time and still holds up today.
For those who appreciate a good Western, Rango offers a fresh take on the genre, much like Longmire did for TV. And if you're in the mood for more Depp, you might also check out his other streaming hits, such as Adam Driver's 65, which found new life on Tubi.
As November 2026 approaches, mark your calendars for Rango's arrival on Peacock. It's a perfect opportunity to introduce younger viewers to a film that's as entertaining for adults as it is for kids, and a reminder of Depp's versatility as a performer. Stay tuned for more updates on this and other streaming additions.
