The Mask of Zorro - A Movie Review

A lot of training goes into a warrior. Are you sure that you’re up to it?

The Mask of Zorro was released to theaters in 1998. After the death of his brother, Alejandro Murrieta is out for revenge. Seeking help, the young thief is trained by Zorro. He is also pursuing his own vengeance from long ago.

I didn’t think that I was going to enjoy The Mask of Zorro as much as I did. Always give a film that’s outside of your film genre a chance. Engrossing from start to finish with epic fights, The Mask of Zorro is an excellent film.

Antonio Banderas and Anthony Hopkins deliver committed performances, each delving into their passions. Their interactions were the best part of the film. Since Banderas earned an award for his performance for best actor at the Golden Globes, where was Hopkins's nomination?

This is a role that I have never seen Hopkins in. By far, this has become my new favorite role of Hopkins. I was obsessed with how good he was while watching the film. I didn’t recognize him until my friend pointed him out. Evolving his diction, and getting into the character of an inspiring teacher, Hopkins achieved impressive depths of emotions.

Banderas performed all of his own stunts that we see on film. Performed with the Spanish Olympic team to perfect his sword fighting, Banderas wanted as much authenticity in his performance. The growth of his character is an important part. I liked how the film showcased a scene with Alejandro as a rookie trying to fight all the bad guys.

Catherine Zeta-Jones was spectacular. Aggressive, fierce, and a fighter, I love what both the writers and Zeta-Jones did to this character. Coming from a time when women didn’t hold much power, Elena teaches viewers to stand their ground. I liked all of her interactions with Banderas, particularly in a sword fight.

Other film credits include Stuart Wilson, Matt Letscher, Tony Amendola, and Pedro Armendariz Jr. Jose Maria de Tavira and Diego Sieres cannot go unmentioned. No small part ever goes unnoticed. An ensemble of hundreds was used during crowd surges and the climax of the film. The entire cast worked well together.

Fight scenes were all well-choreographed. The Legend of Zorro is a physically demanding film. A lot of stunts were performed. For most of the stunts, the cast had to land on the right marks or they’d mess up. Most of the cast was trained to use swords properly.

I liked the equal mixture of comedy. Banderas and Hopkins had the best comedic deliveries in their interactions. They had fun in their scenes. The film found the right moments away from the drama to deliver a funny line or background moment.

Martin Campbell’s attention went towards every element of the film. At one point in the production, Campbell was hospitalized with bronchitis! The end results of the film exude top energy. Campbell also went for authenticity, listening to his cast members for their own ideas.

Costumes were especially noteworthy. A shoutout goes to everyone involved in the wardrobe for effective costumes and dresses. Take a close look at both Banderas and Hopkin’s costumes. The material symbolizes their differences in heritage. The period was studied well, matching the styles of the era. Locations are eye-catching too.

Towards the end, the fight scenes get tedious. Overall, I had a great time watching The Mask of Zorro. Before you estimate that you are not going to enjoy a film, think again and give it a chance. I would watch this film again.