The Mark of Zorro

This truly is the year of Zorro.

We have a comic book from Papercutz, novels, books on Zorro from McFarland, the Antionio Banderas/Katherine Zeta Jones film, and again, the Tyrone Power/Linda Darnell classic from 1940.
What a film it is too. Co-starring Basil Rathbone and Gale Sondergard, it roared in theatres during it’s initial release and established the reputation of Rathbone as a swashbuckler. Joining him in the cast of the film is veteran Eugene Pallette as Fray Felipe, and Stanley Andrews.

Powers portrayed Don Diego De Vega to perfection. He captures both the bored playboy, and the energetic Zorro with equal skill. The Alcalde, Luis Quintero, in reality of pawn of Captain Esteban Pasquale, taxes the people and threatens them with their trained soldiers.
Zorro, as you would expect, plays cat and mouse with Luis and Esteban, climaxing in a sword match that helped set the tone for all swashbuckling films there after.

Fray Felipe, as in Robin Hood, was a man of the people, who turned a blind eye to the stolen money for the good of the people.
I have always loved his gravelly voice and performances that really surprise you. You might think he is no athlete, but just catch him unaware! Even Ralph Byrd (a future Dick Tracy) and Linda Darnell ( just off Brigham Young with Tyrone Powers) were very evident in the film.
Linda Darnell is wonderful as the daughter of the Alcalde.

The Special edition DVD has been colorized. Unlike earlier efforts, this time it comes off very well done.
Watch it either way, color or b/w, it is still a classic film that bears watching more than once.
Both editions are available on this DVD, and the Tyrone Power A & E Biography is included for your viewing pleasure.

Look for the sign of the Z at your local video dealer for this one.

I remain,

A Friend of the people.
Tim Lasiuta