Today’s quick review: The Legend of Zorro. For ten years, Alejandro de la Vega (Antonio Banderas) has protected the people of California as the masked adventurer Zorro, at the cost of his relationship with his wife Elena (Catherine Zeta-Jones) and son Joaquin (Adrian Alonso). Now, with California on the verge of statehood, Alejandro finds it hard to give up the mask, even as he faces romantic competition from Armand (Rufus Sewell), a French count.
The Legend of Zorro is an action adventure and the sequel to The Mask of Zorro. Set a decade after the first film, The Legend of Zorro picks up with Alejandro as he contemplates retiring from his vigilante career to spend more time with his family. The movie is a lighthearted adventure with a fun mix of action and comedy. However, a loose plot, a weak villain, and a heavier focus on comedy make it a step down from its predecessor.
The Legend of Zorro is a lighter take on the character than the previous film. The action is a shade less violent, with less swordplay and more acrobatics. The conflict is more diffuse, swapping the revenge plot featured in the first film for the lower-stakes drama of domestic turmoil. The comedy is more frequent and less subtle. Tonally, the film feels like a victory lap for Alejandro, in spite of the many setbacks he faces.
These elements work fine together, but they make for a less impressive adventure than The Mask of Zorro. The Legend of Zorro’s strengths include the pairing of Antonio Banderas and Catherine Zeta-Jones, a generous serving of breezy action, and humor that, while not brilliant, contributes to an atmosphere of adventure. But those hoping for the sharp action, well-balanced story, or dramatic edge of the original may be disappointed.
For tighter execution of the same character, try The Mask of Zorro. For a Western action comedy with a similar plot and tone, try Shanghai Noon. For a more offbeat action adventure that plays in the same space, try The Lone Ranger. For an even stranger attempt at something similar, try Wild Wild West or Jonah Hex.
5.9 out of 10 on IMDB. I give it a 6.5 for enjoyable blend of action and comedy that’s missing some of the finesse of the original.