Customer Reviews

The Mask of Zorro [Blu-ray]

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This review refers to the Columbia TriStar DVD Dec 2000 release of "The Mask of Zorro"......

You're a big fan of this Zorro film but don't want to shell out big bucks? This DVD is for you. Columbia/TriStar's transfer to DVD is one of the best I've seen. There isn't one detail about it that's inferior. The picture is presented in beautiful anamorphic widescreen(2.35:1), and shows off the incredible cinematography of the Mexico/California regions. The colors are outstanding. They jump out at you and take your breath away.The sound including the wonderful score, the dialouge and all the swashbuckling action is outstanding in the Dolby Dgigtal 5.1(THX) surround. You can also set it up for 2.0 stereo if you choose.You won't find a ton a special features, but there is "making of" featurette, with some commentary by cast and crew, that is entertaining and informative.For those who would prefer more on the side of extras and don't mind paying more, there is a "special edition" release that has lots of goodies including a video, and lots of commentary(see buying info). There is also a "super-bit" version, also more expensive if you choose.(Don't look for extras there).

The movie is packed with action, adventure, romance, and comedy and drama.It will appeal to you if you love westerns, history, or swashbucklers. The story opens with Zorro(Anthony Hopkins)bounding in to help save the Mexican people from the ruthless Don Rafeal Montero(Stuart Wilson). They have been under Spanish rule and are now about to be free. Montero and Don Diego de la Vega/Zorro have been sworn enemies for years. Montero follows De La Vega back to his home, finds that he is Zorro, a swordfight ensues, Diego's wife is murdered, his baby girl stolen and he is imprisoned.Montero flees back to Spain and raises the child as his own.

Twenty years later........Diego learning of Montero's return, see's a chance to reclaim his daughter, Elena(the beautiful Catherine Zeta-Jones) and breaks out of prison. He now trains a younger and stronger man, Alejandro Murietta(Antonio Banderas), to take his place and to help save the people once again from the ruthless Montero.Lots of adventure abounds as they set out to accomplish these feats, and of course lots of romantic adventure as well between Alejandro and Elena.You never knew sword fighting was so much fun and so sexy until you see these two in a duel!

Hopkins is exquiste as the older Zorro, Banderas charming, funny, and handsome as ever,and Zeta-Jones in one of her earliest roles really shines through. Other notables to watch for are L.Q. Jones as "Three-Fingered Jack", and Pedro Armendariz Jr as Don Pedro. Cinematography by Phil Meheux(The Saint/Goldeneye)is outstanding, Musical score by James Horner brillant as always in giving the perfect feeling to the story, and wonderful direction by Martin Campbell(Vertical Limit/Goldeneye).

Watch for "The Sign of the Z"........Laurie

Remember all those old movies where the swashbuckling hero swoops down to the rescue and saves the day for one and all, defeating the enemies and getting the girl all within a few hours' entertainment? "The Mask of Zorro" is a testament to those movies, embodying all of these characteristics in its magnificent story and exhilarating action sequences. With a powerhouse cast that seems as if they were born to play the parts they play, as well as strong music and a solid story, Zorro once again rises from Hollywood deterioration to save the day in a movie that is good, old-fashioned fun from beginning to end!

The old Zorro legend is given a new twist with this film, which begins with Don Diego de la Vega, the original and legendary Zorro, saving a group of prisoners from execution in the town square and leaving his mark on his nemesis, Don Raphael, warning him to leave and never return. Raphael does leave, but not before killing de la Vega's wife and taking his child, also having him imprisoned. Many years later, Raphael returns, "daughter" in tow, to name himself the new governer and to make sure his past enemy is all but alive in his prison. Through extreme craftiness and cunning, de la Vega escapes, only to discover his life is no longer what it once was.

His venture into the public brings him to the attention of one Alejandro Murrieta, who quarrels with him in the marketplace and then resolves himself to friendship. The two do share a past: on the day of Zorro's last battle, Alejandro, along with his brother, saved him from death. Now, Alejandro is distraught and torn with revenge for Captain Harrison Love, the murderer of his brother, and agrees to take on the mask once worn by de la Vega, who in turn will teach him the art of fighting with honor and grace.

The movie is one of those tributes to the old movies of the past, which played out the story of a hero who won all the goods and the girl in the ending. This one admittedly involves a few more characters than those old movies, but that's not to say that they don't each play a special part in the advancement of the movie. The romance, epic scale, action sequences and extreme wit are all present, making this a very exciting and memorable movie experience.

The advancement of the plot lies within the external battle between Raphael and our two heroes, who devise plan after plan to bring him to his downfall. They discover that he has made plans of tricking Santa Anna out of his own land, thus setting the stage for the impending climax which pits good against evil. The characters are all given the chance to become complex and intelligent, which is important in a movie like this. As they begin to outmatch one another, this adds on to the movie's tension over who will win out in the end.

The settings and music have a vast effect on the look and feel of this movie, which takes place in the 19th century. The sets are full of artistic influences from Spanish backgrounds and artists, giving it the true look and feel of the time period. Costume design also adds to the grandeur and pomp of the aristocracy as well as the impoverished conditions of the poor, adding to the contrast between the two differing demographics. The music, composed by James Horner, is amazing, employing Spanish instruments and rhythms while keeping a mordern feel to its score as well. The music adds a lot of heart to the movie, bringing out the intensity, the romance, the passion, and the victories with stylish and rousing compositions that fit right into the entire picture.

The choreography and stunts for this film are what really make it work for the audience, dazzling us with some of the most effective swordplay ever acted out on film. Most of the battle scenes involve men with swords, fighting against one another with an honorable form of battle. Actors Antonio Banderas, Anthony Hopkins, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Stuart Wilson and Matt Letscher all hit the swordplay as if they are prose, adding believability as well as excitement to these scenes.

The actors mentioned above bring so much to the movie. Banderas is magnificent in his role as Alejandro, the new Zorro, a role he seems destined to have played. His looks, his charm, and his wit and personality all make this Zorro one of the finest ever. Hopkins brings his usual presence to the movie, establishing his character as one of immense wit and intelligence, while also possessing a vast knowledge of the art of fighting. Catherine Zeta-Jones sparkles in her role as Elena, de la Vega's daughter, and the chemistry between she and Banderas is dazzling and intense. Stuart Wilson and Matt Matt Letscher play our enemies, and they do so with performances to match those of the heroes.

"The Mask of Zorro" is one big piece of fun that works on many different levels. Some will find pleasure in watching the actors work with the material, some will find intrigue in watching the romance unfold, while the action and adventure will most likely be the most influential factor that wins over the audience. It never stops moving, and keeps dishing out the thrills, the laughs, and the cheers.

For 90 years, many fans of "Zorro" have seen quite a few adaptation of the swashbuckling hero who dons a black mask, cape, clothing and his sword.

From the original books from 1919 by pulp writer Johnston McCulley to the silent films by Douglas Fairbanks and one of my favorites, the 1958-1960 Disney television series starring Guy Williams. But there has been a sort of lull when it came to "Zorro" films and before the 1998 film "The Mask of Zorro", we were left with the George Hamilton comedy "Zorro, the Gay Blade" in 1981.

But in 1998, producer Steven Spielberg ("Indiana Jones" films, "Schindler's List", "E.T.", "Jurassic Park" films) along with director Martin Campbell ("Casino Royale", "Vertical Limit", "GoldenEye") began working on a new action film based on the hero for a new generation of moviegoers. Featuring a screenplay by John Eskow ("Air America", "Pink Cadillac"), Ted Elliott ("National Treasure"and "Pirates of the Carribean" films) and Terry Rossio ("Pirates of the Carribean" films), music by James Horner ("The Spiderwicke Chronicles", "Troy", "Enemy at the Gates") and cinematographer Phil Meheux ("Casino Royale", "Around the World in 80 Days", "GoldenEye").

The film was released in theaters during the Summer of `98 and with a budget of $95 million, the film went on to make over $250 million worldwide and was received positively by critics.


VIDEO & AUDIO:

"The Mask of Zorro" is presented in 1080p High Definition (aspect ratio 2:40:1). I was quite pleased with the picture quality of the film as there was pretty good detail on the texture of the Mexican and Spanish clothing, detail of the interiors of Don's cave hideout and the dirt and grime on the Murrieta boys. A good number of shots were outdoors, so there was a good amount of lighting. Skin tones were natural and you can see Anthony Hopkins blue eyes quite clearly. I tend to get a bit unnerved with some films shot during the 80's and 90's because they look a bit waxy but "The Mask of Zorro" looks very good for a 1998 film.

As for audio, the film is presented in English, French and Portuguese 5.1 DTS-HD MA (and Spanish 5.1). The soundtrack for the film is actually fantastic. For an older film, I was expecting a front and center channel driven soundtrack but "The Mask of Zorro" really takes advantage of the surround and rear surround channels and also some LFE. You hear the crowds clapping all around you during a scene when Montero arrives back to California. Horses galloping and thunder is also well heard. Fighting sequences, gun shots, explosions are really utilized quite well and for the most part, similar to "Air Force One" which is a 90's film that was given great audio by Sony, the same can be said for "The Mask of Zorro". The lossless soundtrack is clear, understandable and quite immersive during the action sequences.

Subtitles are in English, English SDH, French, Portuguese and Spanish.

SPECIAL FEATURES:

"The Mask of Zorro" comes with the following special features presented in standard definition, English stereo and optional Portuguese or Spanish subtitles:

* movieIQ - With BD-Live, you can obtain information about the film online while watching the film (optional).
* Director's Commentary - Featuring audio commentary with director Marc Campbell. Campbell provides insight on each scene and very thorough in his explanation of the talent, the set and more.
* Exclusive Documentary: Unmasking Zorro - (45:05) The making of "The Mask of Zorro" featuring director Martin Campbell, Anthony Hopkins, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Antonio Banderas and more talking about the film, the history of Zorro, the production and costume design of the film, the music and more.
* Deleted Scenes - (4:50) Featuring two deleted scenes: The Wallet and The Resolution.
* "The Legend of Zorro" Behind-the-Scenes Peek - (5:02) A behind-the-scenes look at the making of "The Legend of Zorro" and interviews with Catherine Zeta-Jones, Antonio Banderas and director Martin Campbell who talk about reuniting seven years later for the sequel of "The Mask of Zorro".
* Music Video by Marc Anthony and Tina Arena -(4:51) Music video for "I Spent My Whole Life Loving You" by Marc Anthony and Tina Arena.
* Exclusive Scene from "The Legend of Zorro" - (1:43) A short sneak peek of the 2005 film "Legend of Zorro".

JUDGMENT CALL:

It actually has been a Zorro month for me during Fall/Winter 2009. Having watched the complete "Zorro" TV series from 1958-1960, I was enchanted by the humor, drama and the action. So, watching "The Mask of Zorro", I felt that it was perfect timing on my part because the film was almost like a continuation of previous films and even the TV series because you forward to the future in which the hero Don de la Vega is now an older man, married and knowing that he's getting too old to be doing jumps and escaping harm.

I was a bit skeptical at first seeing Anthony Hopkins taking on the role of Don Diego. Mainly because I've gotten so used to seeing Guy Williams playing the role of "Zorro" but because this role calls for an older Don Diego, Hopkins is such a talented actor, that he makes you feel comfortable towards his character.

You easily accept him and sympathize for him as Don Diego goes through the worst, imaginable things that the hero has ever experienced. But enter Antonio Banderas. One thing that Guy Williams captured in the classic TV series is a character with class, charisma and is able to deliver in the action. Banderas starts off as a bit of a ruffian but through the course of the film, we see the thief become the hero and much more refined.

And as for Catherine Zeta-Jones, she looks absolutely beautiful in this film and together, she and Banderas played their characters of Alejandro and Elena quite well. They both have that chemical/sexual attraction towards each other but also, aside from the dramatics, the two also have a good repertoire for utilizing their characters to earn some laughs from the audience.

One thing that the original TV series had was high production value in which Walt Disney himself made sure "Zorro" utilized. So, when Steven Spielberg was the name behind the producing of this film, you knew that there would be significant action scenes and most of all, a film that would receive good financing to pull off these fight scenes that Zorro is known for. May it be him battling with a sword, climbing on rooftops or chandeliers, being chased on horseback to Zorro taking on dozens of men, fight choreography was done well and cinematography was also solid and for the most part, those scenes were highly enjoyable.

"The Mask of Zorro" was definitely a hallmark for Zorro films. After that periodic lull of having nothing satisfying since the late 1950's and early 60's, it was great to see the character of Zorro done well for this film. A screenplay that is not only action-driven but also character driven and you get all the humor and sexual attraction in this film as well.

Having seen the TV series and a few of the Zorro films in the past, I'm confident to say that "The Mask of Zorro" is the best Zorro film ever made thus far. For those of us who grew up watching the adventures of Don Diego de la Vega, this film is simply the passing of the title to a new character for a new generation of viewers. Fortunately, the film was handled quite well and I really enjoyed seeing this film again and I'm sure you will too. Definitely recommended!

This film is probably the best sword fighting film I have seen with lots of action and a great story line. A film fact is that the guy who teachs the actors how to sword fence has done so many movies from robin hood, three muskateers and now zorro he is actually in his 70's. Basically the story involves De la Vega (Anthony Hopkins) who is the original Zorro in the movie and then after years of him being in jail he teaches alexandro(Antonio Bandaras) all his skills to continue his service to the people a master/apprentice type movie. A classic quote from the movie De la vega:"zorro was a servant of the people he did what was needed !" Alexandro "Yes and now he is needed agian". The acting is superb Anthony Hopkins(enough said), Antonio Bandaras plays the part of zorro reall swarve and calm and not forgeting the lovely Catherine Zeta Jones who has a spanish look about her and her accent is well done well suited to the part. The DVD sound and picture is superb quality and the special documentary is very interesting, it explains all the planning that is put into the movie from the staged sword fights to the backround scenary.

Packed with action, romance and humor. This is a great movie that anyone would enjoy. It's suitable for all members of the family. Anthony Hopkins, Antonio Banderas and Catherine Zeta-Jones deliver excellent performances. And there's an incredible chemistry between Antonio Banderas and Catherine Zeta-Jones. Get it. You won't be disappointed!

I had long considered watching "The Mask of Zorro". When its sequel, "The Legend of Zorro", came to my town's theater, my family decided that we'd better watch it before seeing the sequel.

"The Mask of Zorro" is a sequel - not a remake - to the Zorro films and series of old. The film begins with the original Zorro, played by Anthony Hopkins, losing his wife and daughter and being imprisoned. The rest of the film is set twenty years later, as the old Zorro teaches a young, skilled thief (played by Antonio Banderas) what he needs to know to put on the mask.

"The Mask of Zorro" is truly a wonderful film. It's directed by Martin Campbell, who also directed films like "Beyond Borders", "GoldenEye", and the upcoming "Casino Royale". I thought it was an interesting how "Mask of Zorro" was filmed in a style extremely similar to that of "GoldenEye". Campbell is a great director, and he has a distinct directorial style to him that is perfect for this film.

The cast is great. Anthony Hopkins, for me anyways, stold the show. He was really fantastic. But Antonio Banderas was wonderful as well; his scenes with Hopkins are some of the best in the film. Catherine Zeta-Jones is beautiful in her scenes, and Stuart Wilson was a hateable badguy.

The film is well-photographed, and it looks terrific thanks to some beautiful sets and scenery. James Horner's score makes it all the more adventurous and exciting, as well as heroic. The script - co-written by Terry Rossio & Ted Elliott, who worked on another fantastic adventure movie, "Pirates of the Caribbean" - is well-written and engrossing. There's never a dull moment.

All in all, I had a great time watching this. "The Mask of Zorro" is a wonderfully fun and immensely entertaining joy of a film, great for watching alone or with the whole family. I'd certainly recommend it to anyone looking to watch a fine movie.

Sometimes, movies are not meant to be thoughtful, deep, or insightful. Sometimes, they're just made to entertain, and MASK OF ZORRO delivers that entertainment in spades!!! Set in the days of Spanish California, this flick tells the tale of Don Diego Vega (Anthony Hopkins), who was the original Zorro. In a plot very much like the classic "Count of Monte Cristo", Diego is suprised by his foe, Governor Montero. He sees his wife killed, baby daughter kidnapped, and is doomed to spent life in prison. 20 years later, Diego escapes to wreak his revenge, but is halted when he learns that Montero has adopted his daughter (the beautiful and spirited Catherine Zeta-Jones). Diego recruits another vengeful soul (Antonio Banderas), who has lost his brother to Montero's henchman, Capt. Love. Diego's attempt to make his new protege the next Zorro is main focus of the plot. Told in a fast paced & fun style, this film has everything for the action film fan: great sword fighting, passionate romance, and a health dose of wit & warmth. All 3 leads are splendid and this film is well worth your time. Highly recommended.

This movie follows a long and distinguished line of "Zorro" movies, which started with Douglas Fairbank's excellent silent sagas. Fortunately, "The Mask of Zorro" hasn't "screwed-up" the genre, and in my opinion, is the "crowning jewel" of the line.

It's a shame that many movie "reviewers" pooh-poohed Catharine Zeta-Jones' portrayal of the heroine "because she wasn't spanish". Explain, then, ANTHONY HOPKINS in the title role? he certainly isn't spanish, yet he did an EXCELLENT JOB as Zorro as did Ms. Zeta-Jones in her role. For the record, she makes this All-American Male's heart "go pitter-pat" whenever I view this movie. I certainly hope her future movie roles are as good as the one in this movie.

Anthony Banderas portrayal of a "redeemed" bad guy was EXCELLENT! I especially enjoyed his homage to Fairbank's Zorro in his "acting job" at the bad guys' banquet table (complaining about "being tired", etc.). He also has good comedic range and expressiveness. Many of todays 'actors" could learn something from this young newcomer!

The soundtrack is TOP-NOTCH! I remember my wife remarking how she "heard things" on my Home Theater system that she missed in the theater. My hat's off to the sound crew for an excellent job!

In conclusion, this movie is a WELCOME RELIEF from the usual mindless dreck currently produced in Hollywood these days. My whole family, including my pre-teen children, thoroughly enjoy this movie, and I would not hesitate to recommend it for "general family fare".

By the way: the GOOD GUYS win, just like they always used to do....

The movie itself was as entertaining and stirring as I remembered from seeing it at the movies, but I was disappointed in the special edition.I bought the special ed for the added features and was annoyed to find that it had no theatrical trailers,no advertising materials, no music video (which I specifically bought this edition for), and only two deleted scenes. My advice to any to buy this edition is this: save your money and just go with the regular version and enjoy this thoroughly entertaining film.
Stephanie

In "The Mast of Zorro", Anthony Hopkins plays Don Diego de la Vega, a freedom fighter in California by the name of Zorro. But the day Spain concedes California to Santa Anna, de la Vega is captured and put into prison. Twenty years later, he escapes and finds that his enemy, Don Rafael (Stuart Wilson) has come back to California. De la Vega also finds that Don Rafael had taken his own daughter, Elena (Catherine Zeta-Jones), as his own. De la Vega, with the help of a young man, Alejandro (Antonio Banderas) are determined to try to stop Don Rafael from his evil plans in taking over California.

The movie is fantastic! One, it has actors Anthony Hopkins, Antonio Banderas, and Catherine Zeta-Jones. Who wouldn't love them? Two, the story line is good. It's very understandable and there doesn't seem to be any gaps in the story. Three, the action is just amazing! There's fencing with a little Bruce Lee touch in it. Four, there are no bad scenes or any foul language in it! It's not the kind of movie you'd watch with younger kids but still, it's very good!

A definite five star movie! If you liked this movie, watch also "The Mark of Zorro".