In the midst of a journey, a pet chameleon with an identity crisis finds himself unexpectedly thrown from his sheltered life in a terrarium into the vast, harsh Mojave Desert. Lost and alone, the chameleon stumbles upon the dusty, lawless town of Dirt, an outpost desperate for water and clinging to the last remnants of the Old West. With no clear path home and inspired by his encounters, he adopts the persona of "Rango," projecting himself as a tough and capable gunslinger. His theatricality and unlikely bravery quickly draw the attention of Dirt's weary residents, who are in dire need of a hero to help solve their water crisis.

Eager for a sense of purpose and belonging, Rango embraces his new role as the sheriff of Dirt with zeal, but his efforts to protect the town and uncover the mystery behind their dwindling water supply thrust him into a world of intrigue far beyond his understanding. As he navigates a complex web of characters, including the smart and elusive lizard Beans, and faces threats from both within and outside the town, Rango's quest challenges not only his courage but also his very identity. The adventure compels him to confront his deepest fears and, in doing so, defines the hero he always aspired to be, revealing the importance of honesty, bravery, and self-discovery amidst adversity.