Long before Batman patrolled the streets of Gotham
City another masked vigilante was fighting for justice in the California
desert; Zorro. Inspired by real life outlaw Joaquin Murietta, who was popularly
known as ‘Mexico’s Robin Hood’, Zorro has become one of popular culture’s most
enduring heroes. First debuted in a 1919 novela, the character has been
featured in numerous films, television series, and novels. Despite his
popularity, however, Zorro lay dormant for years after his classic adventures
fell out of favor with the rise of gritty reboots laden with special effects.
In 1998, however, the franchise was revitalized as The Mask of Zorro introduced the adventures of the masked avenger
to a new generation.
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| Who needs superpowers with these skills? |
The story begins in 1821 California in an homage to
the original films and series with aristocrat Diego de la Veg donning his
famous mask just in time to rescue a group of wrongly accused peasants from
execution. The story takes a dark turn, however, when Diego returns home only
to be arrested by his sworn enemy, corrupt governor Don Rafael Montero. During
the ensuing struggle, Diego’s wife, Esperanza, is killed and his infant
daughter, Elena, is kidnapped to be raised as Don Rafael’s child. Twenty years
later, an imprisoned Diego learns that Don Rafael has returned to California with
Elena after exile in Spain and accordingly plots his escape. Upon escaping
prison he meets hapless thief Alejandro who is seeking his own vengeance.
Together, the unlikely pair resurrect the legend of Zorro and embark upon a
journey that will decide the future of California.
Through its nuanced characterizations and believable
script, The Mask of Zorro presents a
hero for the real world. While the majority of adventure and action films today
utilize the excitement and visual flair of supernatural forces and
super-powers, The Mask of Zorro
relates an equally entertaining tale that remains firmly grounded in the
parameters of its historical setting. For example, Don Rafael’s scheme for he
and the other dons to regain their former power highlights the all too real
evils of greed and political corruption and carries far more weight than a
standard ‘take over the world’ super villain plot. Similarly, Diego and
Alejandro’s exploits are more satisfying than those shown in many modern action
and adventure films, as the duo earn their success by relying upon their wits
and skills rather than triumphing through some elaborate gadget or otherworldly
ability. The film particularly stands out for the complexity of its two leads.
While Diego begins the film as a larger than life hero, the loss of both his
family and freedom leave him humbled and jaded. Similarly, although Alejandro
becomes a dashing Zorro, he begins the film as a crude thief who bears a closer
resemblance to a masked bandit than the legendary hero. Despite their flaws,
both men remain likeable characters, even as viewers watch them morally
struggle with the difficult choice between justice and vengeance. What the
films lacks in CGI effects it more than makes up for in its vibrant historical
setting and daring stunts as its two protagonists ride, fence, and dance their
way through the treacherous world of California’s elites. For an adventure that
will satisfy the mind and heart as well as dazzle the eyes look no further than
the infamous ‘Z’ for Zorro.
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| A very spirited dancer |
The film’s uniformly excellent cast brings the
adventures of Zorro to rousing life in a way that will appeal to devoted fans
and newcomers alike. Anthony Hopkins infuses Diego with a world weariness and
guarded compassion that highlight both the idealist he once was and the cynic
he has become. Antonio Banderas is an ideal foil to Hopkins’ wounded hero in
his role as the impulsive Alejandro. In Banderas’ hands Alejandro’s journey
from outlaw to hero is a natural evolution rather than a jarring character
shift as Alejandro continues to maintain his roguishness even as he answers the
call of justice. The chemistry between the two leads provides the film with its
emotional core and many of its most memorable moments, as Hopkins aptly plays
straight-man and mentor to Banderas’ rebellious student. Through her sharp wit
and even sharper swordplay, Catherine Zeta-Jones’ Elena is more than a standard
love interest. Zeta-Jones infuses her role with an intelligence and nuance that
ensure she holds her own in the male-dominated cast, particularly in her scenes
with Banderas which spark with sensual chemistry. Stuart Wilson lends
complexity and sinister charm to his role as the ruthless Don Rafael, who is
motivated as much by personal loss and obsession as by greed. Matt Letscher
aptly portrays the sociopathic Texas Ranger Captain Harrison Love and captures
both Love’s genteel exterior and internal brutality with equal skill.
Through its combination of rousing action, engaging
performances and classic storytelling, The
Mask of Zorro is a worthy entry in
the Zorro franchise. At once an homage to the franchise’s original tales and a
fresh twist on the adventure genre, the film has something for all generations
and serves as an apt reminder of what is sorely lacking in today’s youth and
technology-centric cinema. Nearly one hundred years after his debut Zorro
remains one of popular culture’s most thrilling and fascinating heroes; with
just one viewing of The Mask of Zorro
will unmask all the reasons why.
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| There are many who will proudly wear the mask of Zorro |
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