STARS: ****
DIRECTOR: Martin Campbell
PRINCIPLE CAST:
Antonio Banderas
Anthony Hopkins
Catherine Zeta-Jones
Once every decade, there comes a film so well-made that it provides enjoyment for everyone.
In the 70s there was STAR WARS, in the 80s we had THE PRINCESS BRIDE, and, for the 90s, we are brought
THE MASK OF ZORRO. This film does something that not many contemporary films do. It entertains.
This movie is an action-packed, comedic, romantic, swashbuckling adventure, much in the
tradition of THE ADVENTURES OF ROBIN HOOD. I was truly surprised that a "movie of the summer"
could deliver such cinematic mastery. It is a rare action/adventure film that has great
direction, writing, and acting.
No one could ask for a better Zorro than Antonio Banderas. He brings such a heroic presence
to Zorro. I would compare him to Errol Flynn. Anthony Hopkins, not surprisingly, delivers a
wonderful performance and Catherine Zeta-Jones is perfect in her role as Elena. No one could have
pulled it off better. Who would've thought two Welsh actors would make such wonderful Mexican
heroes?
I am so pleased that Martin Campbell was the director to bring this film to life. He has a
wonderful ability to bring classic heroes into the nineties without making them TOO nineties.
First, he brought a wonderful James Bond and then a superb Zorro. I'm just waiting for him to
bring us a ROBIN HOOD movie (we can hope can't we?).
Overall, this a wonderful film for all to enjoy! One of the best movies of the year (second
only to PLEASANTVILLE)! A+! Thoroughly entertaining!
