Making its mark
By Chhun Sun
The Collegian
“The Legend of Zorro”
takes an audience back to when out-of-this-world special effects didn’t
have to carry the movie.
The plot is simple, it’s a story of good vs. bad, and the good overcomes
the bad in the name of peace. Director Martin Campbell, who directed the
last Zorro film, provides 124 minutes fans of old Western movies can easily
follow.
The film, which opens today nationwide, has big-name actors, but its old
school swashbuckling and plot carry the story, a Mexican-American folklore.
And Antonio Banderas appears to be the perfect person for the role. His
wit and charm seem lifeless but it’s exactly the element needed
to play a one-dimensional character, whose duty it is to protect his people,
the Mexicans who seek freedom in the 1800s.
“The Legend of Zorro” has a political tone that goes well
with its love story.
Elena (Catherine Zeta-Jones) has been Zorro’s wife for 10 years,
but their marriage is on the rocks.
Zeta-Jones matches the charm
of Banderas. They both use mundane lines in their exchanges. When the
townspeople ring the town’s bell for Zorro’s help, Elena says,
“They’re calling you,” and Zorro — or Don Alejandro
de la Vega — responds with: “That’s who I am. That’s
who I am.” Adding the fact that this simple movie relies on casual
humor.
Unlike “The Mask of Zorro,” the sequel focuses on the relationship
of Zorro and his son, Joaquin (Adrian Alonso), who is following in his
father’s footsteps but without really knowing it. The relationship
is typical with a splash of humor. Especially considering Joaquin doesn’t
know his hero, Zorro, is his dad. Alonso is a star-in-the-making with
his exaggerated attitude and cute smile.
Simple movie, characters and plot make for a good movie. Fans who enjoyed
“The Mask of Zorro” won’t be disappointed.
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