Review of The Mask of Zorro (1998) by Craig H — 21 Jul 2009

The Mask Of Zorro follows Don Diego de la Vega as the local hero Zorro, who gets captured and, with his wife killed and daughter raised by his arch-enemy Don Rafael Montero, escapes from prison 20 years later to exact his revenge. On his way, he encounters Alejandro Murrieta, who also wants revenge for the murder of his brother, and works to ensure that the legacy of Zorro can carry onâ?¦.

For a film with such a long history and notable trademarks of its own, it certainly feels like a proper â??old-schoolâ?? adventure. The setting, music and iconic actions associated with Zorro (slashing a â??Zâ??, for example) is all here. Due to sticking to the rich backstory that Zorro has, it oozes as much Hispanic and Californian charm possible and has a lovely sense of humour throughout its showing. Much of the feel-good factor can be attributed to the main leads. Banderas, Zeta-Jones and Hopkins are a delight to watch throughout, and play off each other well. Finally, any action-adventure film needs to have cracking set-pieces, and with an elaborate battle on horses, as well as the finale at the gold-mine, this box is ticked as well.

If there is a downer to the film itâ??s that it still doesnâ??t do anything particularly groundbreaking, and is evident as it stays well within its safe boundaries. If you are looking for something new and innovative, donâ??t look here.

The Mask Of Zorro is a typical Sunday family film to watch. Rarely does the film pause for breath, and the passing of Zorro from old to new is not affected in a bad way. A film that, in todayâ??s modern and demanding society, probably shouldnâ??t be acceptable to enjoy, but boy you just canâ??t help but get involved!