Zorro is one of the most famous fictional characters of all time. Created in 1919 by writer Johnston McCulley, he is a masked vigilante who protects common people and indigenous people from corrupt authorities and villains in Spanish California (1769-1821).
With a black costume, mask and rapier, Zorro makes his mark by carving a “Z” on his enemies. But his secret identity is Don Diego de la Vega, a rich young fencing expert, who pretends to be a coward to deflect suspicion.
Zorro appears in more than 40 films, series such as the famous Disney production (1957-1959) and other media, being an icon of the cloak and dagger and western genres. In this article we will highlight some productions available online to watch with the character.
Zorro: 7 films and series to watch online
The Mark of Zorro (1940) – Film
Based on the novel “The Curse of Capistrano (1919)”, the story marks the introduction of the masked hero. The film is directed by Ruben Mamoulian (“The Doctor and the Monster”, 1931) and Tyrone Power in the lead role.
In 19th century California, the story follows Don Diego, a rich young man who, upon returning from Spain, decides to fight the oppression of Governor Quintero. Assuming the identity of Zorro, he fights for the people by facing Captain Pasquale and falling in love with Lolita, the governor’s niece.
The opera is a remake of the 1920 silent film starring Douglas Fairbanks.
The Mask of Zorro (1998) – Film
One of the most famous incarnations to the public is the film with Antonio Banderas. Directed by Martin Campbell (from the films “007 GoldenEye” and “Casino Royale”), the film also stars Anthony Hopkins and Catherine Zeta-Jones.
In 19th-century California, Diego de la Vega, the original Zorro, is exposed by the Spanish governor Don Rafael Montero, who arrests him, kills his wife, and kidnaps his daughter, Elena, raising her as his own in Spain. Twenty years later, Montero returns to Mexico with Elena, now an adult.
Diego escapes from prison to take revenge and reveal the truth to Elena. Meet Alejandro Murrieta, a thief seeking revenge for the death of his brother Joaquin, at the hands of Captain Harrison Love, Montero’s ally. Diego trains Alejandro, who takes on the role of Zorro to face tyranny and fight for the people.
The Legend of Zorro (2005) – Film
Sequel to the 1998 film, Martin Campbell returns to direct and Antonio Banderas and Catherine Zeta-Jones reprise their roles.
In 1850, California seeks to become the 31st state of the United States, but faces opposition from a secret organization. Don Alejandro de la Vega, Zorro, must fight the evil McGivens, who terrorizes the residents, stealing lands and threatening human lives.
In addition to his heroic actions, Zorro tries to balance his family life, dividing himself between his wife Elena and his 10-year-old son Joaquin.
Zorro (1957) – Series
Television series that had enormous success with the public. The production was broadcast in Brazil on Rede Tupi in 1963 as “Toddy and A Marca do Zorro”, thanks to sponsorship from the chocolate milk company, and was broadcast until 1965. It was later broadcast on TV Globo in the 1970s, on SBT in 1982 and recorded between 1996 and 1998.
The plot is set in 1892; Diego, Don Alejandro’s only son, returns to California to fight military corruption. By day he is an elegant young man; At night he takes on the role of the masked Zorro, leaving his iconic mark, the “Z”, wherever he goes.
The series has 78 episodes, as well as 4 one-hour specials.
The Mark of Zorro (1958) – Film
This film is an eight-episode edition of the popular Disney TV series and is a good introduction to the character, ideal for those who want to see it before starting the series.
In the story, Don Diego returns home to find his city under the rule of a cruel dictator, Captain Monastario. Diego wears the mask of Zorro to fight the commander’s tyranny and, with the help of his mute servant Bernardo, frees the people from oppression.
The Mark of Zorro (1975) – Film
Italian film about the character, this time with the protagonist Alain Delon in the role of the masked hero.
The inhabitants of New Arangona suffer under the tyranny of Colonel Huerta, who rules cruelly. Their hope is the arrival of a new governor, but he is assassinated by conspirators linked to Huerta.
Don Diego decides to take the place of the deceased governor, pretending to be him, and donning the mask of Zorro to fight tyranny and punish Huerta’s abuses.
Zorro (2024) – Series
Spanish series starring the character together with Miguel Bernardeau (from the “Elite” series).
Diego de la Vega returns to California to avenge his father’s murder. After assuming the title of Zorro, he begins his fight against various adversaries, from those who stole his inheritance to the tyrannical governor.
As he takes on the role of Zorro, Diego not only fights for justice in Los Angeles, but also discovers the challenges of being a hero and how his role affects California in the 19th century.
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Rose James is a Gossipify movie and series reviewer known for her in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the latest releases. With a background in film studies, she provides engaging and informative reviews, and keeps readers up to date with industry trends and emerging talents.
