If you noticed my hand disappears in a few shots, congratulations! Instead of posting a comment about it, why not instead sign up for CuriosityStream and get a free subscription to Nebula, where my short film will be premiering curiositystream.com/patrickhwillems/
When people say "why dont we see such great wide-shot sword fights anymore?" Bob Anderson is why. He was an absolute legend, and we all feel his departure from cinema. RIP, Bob, we miss you!
Regarding the fight scenes: the sword instructor for the movie was the late Bob Anderson. He worked on Princess Bride, Highlander, and Lord of the Rings; was a fencing coach to everyone from Errol Flynn to Johnny Depp, and a fight double for Darth Vader. He served as a Royal Marine in WWII and represented Britain in fencing at the Helsinki Olympics. That, my friends, is a lifetime to be proud of.
He's absolutely correct: this movie was the shit. Also, Antonio Banderas could do no wrong in the mid-to-late 90's, Desperado with Selma Hayek was hot enough to light up the eastern seaboard.
Henry G ya....that sequel was horrible. that’s why the new one has to be a reboot! Each new zorro until it reaches Batman...but now my idea sounds extra dumb and too much like a regular movie exec. So I’ll go back lurking.
I LOVED this movie as a kid, it even started me on a whole Zorro craze where I went back and watched the old Disney show, which is also pretty great. Then I grew up, and like the rest of humanity forgot about this movie. A few months ago, I had a free afternoon and was scrolling through Netflix and what did I find? The Mask of Fucking Zorro. And god damn, this movie kicks so much ass. No surprise when you take the writers of Aladdin and Pirates of the Caribbean and team them up with the director of Casino Royale to do a reboot of the character that inspired Batman. Go see this movie!
"Agreed... Can we get back to Zorro?" :D I damn near chocked laughing at the avalanche of gold bars. That's some seriously funny revenge. Will Patrick be moving back in to the barn?
Same! I was a huge fan of both the 50s show and the animated show that was running at the time. Loved almost every second of it (the head in a jar scarred me for years). Underrated classic with an impeccable cast. Even at that age you could tell Catherine Zeta-Jones was so hot she could set the atmosphere on fire.
The spanish version of the intro song of the disney show goes like this: "En su corcel, (in his horse) cuando sale la luna, (when the moon rises) aparece el bravo Zorro, (the brave Zorro appears) al hombre del mal (the man of evil) el sabrá castigar (he'll know how to punish) marcando la zeta del zorro (marking the z of zorro) ¡Zorro!, ¡Zorro!, ¡su espada no fallará! (Zorro, Zorro, his sword shall not fail) ¡Zorro!, ¡Zorro!, ¡la zeta el marcará!" (Zorro, Zorro, the z he will mark) Just wanted to share it cus it's also awesome. Loved the video!
The french version (and a dodgy translation from me) for those interested: « Un cavalier qui surgit hors de la nuit (A rider, out of the night) Court vers l'aventure au galop (gallop to adventure.) Son nom, il le signe à la pointe de l'épée (His name, he signes it with the point of his sword) D'un Z qui veut dire Zorro (By a Z meaning Zorro) Zorro ! Zorro ! Renard rusé qui fait sa loi (Zorro! Zorro! Crafty fox doing his own law) Zorro ! Zorro ! Vainqueur tu l'es à chaque fois » (Zorro! Zorro! Victorious you are every time)
Italian version "Là sulla duna, quando brilla la luna spunta il nostro eroe Zorro che lascia il suo segno, una Z, a chi è indegno la Z che vuol dire Zorro. Zorro, Zorro... lui ha la vita segreta Zorro, Zorro... il segno suo è la Z. Zorro, Zorro, Zorro...."
This guy gets it! I probably wore out my VHS copy of Mask of Zorro as a kid and got really bummed out in recent years realizing how many people don't remember it or haven't seen it.
Favorite f***ing line in the movie: “All the training! All the wise words! And for what?! To smile in the face of my brother’s killer while you make your own plans?!” THE MEAT!!!
Edna: “No Capes!” Patrick: “More capes!” Seriously though, Antonio Banderas in Zorro is the funniest, sexiest and hell-yeah-iest hero it was ever Swashbuckled-in the last forty years anyway.
Patrick, let me tell you, All over Latinamerica, El Zorro is a very popular character, who has fans of all ages. In Argentina we have the Guy Williams's Student, Fernando Lupis, who inherit the original suit and sword of Williams himself. Lots of fans of El Zorro made their voices being heard when two years ago, the channel 13, who streamed El Zorro for at least 30 years decided to quit the show from schedule. (Sorry my rough english)
Yes, i came here to say this. I'm from Argentina too and here El Zorro is HUGE. "Canal 13" (one of the biggest TV Stations) has been doing reruns from decades and it still has good rating, sometimes even surpassing the competence of the other channels in the same time.
Wish you’d have given some love to James Horner’s awesome score. So many great instrument choices and the theme is underrated as hell. Also, no love for the legendary 3 fingered jack pick axe moment??
I remember when I saw the most recent Lone Ranger (with Johnny Depp), I thought "they should have gotten the same people who did The Mask of Zorro. It was a great movie. I agree with your commentary completely. And your mom is charming.
i cant believe, that was my favourite movie of all time when i was a kid and since my dad died like 12 years ago i just erased that from my mind, and now it's all coming back to me i love you so much, thank you for that video patrick
Patrick does it again. We JUST WATCHED THIS again two nights ago!! It was part of our "hey I remember this movie and now it's streaming" trilogy, after The Rocketeer and Flight of the Navigator.
The mask of Zorro, the Count of Monte Christo (2002) and pirates of the Caribbean curse of the Black Pearl are my favorite modern “swashbucklers” awesome video! Would love to see one on the 2002 Count of Monte Christo
@@GrainneMhaol Robin of Sherwood was AFAIK the first incarnation of Robin Hood to have a "good guy" Saracen (i.e. Arab/Muslim) among the Merry Men, and almost every live-action version since has done the same. (The "good" Saracen is a fairly common trope in medieval literature--a couple show up in the extended Arthurian legends and one is the main heroine's love interest in the epic poem Orlando Furioso--so not only am I totally cool with it being added to the Robin Hood mythos, a medieval audience wouldn't have found it unusual.)
@@digitaljanus Also, Kevins Costner and Reynolds watched the pilot of RoS on repeat for ideas. They literally thought Nasir was part of the original story.
Fantastic video. I agree with everything you said, and you've echoed many of my own thoughts about the movie. Also something I just noticed while rewatching the film today: Cpt. Love says to Zorro "Two men, one death" referring to him and his alter-ego. Then moments later, Rafael Montero comes crashing down on top of him and they both plummet to their deaths; two men, one death. Brilliant.
pausing to go rewatch Mask of zorro. back in a mo to watch the rest of this. Edit: It took me like 10 hours because my attention span has shot to hell since I got a smart phone but I did it. Mask of Zorro is fresh in my mind as I watch this.
Little-known fact: Robert Rodriguez was initially hired to direct THE MASK OF ZORRO and was the one who cast Antonio Banderas. But due to budget disputes with the studio, he left, getting replaced by Martin Campbell.
Mask of Zorro is a fucking banger. Patrick, your Mom is so wonderful, I love it when she pops into videos. I’m glad you’re with your family and that you’re all doing okay. Keep making videos if you can! Even low budge ones would be rad, it’s a weird world out there right now....
Absolutely yes!! I would say that the '93 "The Three Musketeers" gets a lot of this right as well. Yes, it is silly, but it's also charming. There are capes, hats, real choreographed swordfights, a (tragic) lovestory and a (less tragic) lovestory. A really nasty villain (oh, Mr. Curry) with a very nasty sidekick. Iconic shots, horse-based comedy. AND it's even got the themed pop-song at the end. Why did movies stop doing that? Coincidentally also done in the '20s by Doug Fairbanks - he knew how to pick 'em!
The Mask of Zorro was one if my favorite movies growing up. I watched it over and over and over again, and I was completely in love with Antonio Banderas for years.
So good to see this movie get some recognition. I've long considered it a perfect movie. Everything the movie tries to achieve, it does, with flair and charm and gusto.
Bravo! Just happened to watch this movie on Netflix last week so it couldn't be any fresher in my mind. I remember seeing this in the theater with my family and EVERYONE enjoyed it. Very rare for a movie like this that can entertain and please everybody!
I never forgot about this, was one of my favs as a kid. Seeing Zorro cut down that dress might've been the first time I felt aroused. Later one, realising Martin Campbell did the best bond films and this, he is truely one of the greatest modern action directors.
Thank you so much for talking about it. When I was a child, Zorro was my favorite fictional character and this movie was one of my favorite movies (like the third most favorite after Mulan and The Mummy). This movie was one of the main reasons that I, a person who used to hate sports or any physical activity at all, ended up learning sword fighting.
15:28 "Look at this guy; his whole vibe is that he's plotting to phase-stab his hand into your heart and wish for nothing but the destruction of the Flash for the next sixteen years."
Back then, when I heard there would be a Zorro movie I was so hooked even though I was still a child. I knew (and loved) Zorro through an anime serie which aired around 1995/96. I liked about Zorro that he had the confidence to protect his family and friends by acting like a coward as Diego to get the least attention from the bad guys. A huge difference to Bruce Wayne and Tony Stark who acted always so cocky and loved the spotlight. That's why I admire Zorro as a hero so much: He doesn't do the hero stuff for his ego or he feels guilty, he does it because it's the right thing to do.
The amount of joy and validation I felt when I saw this video title was unprecedented and I leave the video 0% disappointed, so entertained, and with a continued and reawoken love for the genius that is this movie. I had no idea how much I needed this. Thank you!!
True, most Zorro stories take place in the period when California was a Spanish territory, rather than claimed by Mexico or the United States. That being said, a few stories state that Diego's mother was Native American, so more diversity in casting future projects certainly wouldn't be a bad thing.
Diego de la Vega is supposed to be a Spaniard, sure, but he seemed to be married to a local Mexican who seems to be a "mestiza" ("mixed race"), so Helena should be mestiza as well. That being said, there are plenty of "mestizos" who look quite European depending on ancestry, and Catherine Zeta-Jones could easily pass as a Spaniard herself, so there's that. As for Alejandro, maybe he could be a low-class "criollo" (people born in the Americas, but of Spaniard descent).
It might depend on the time there seemed to be Mexican soldiers who were Rafael’s goons and the presence of an American like captain love tells me that this is after Mexico gains independence from Spain (obviously formerly being new Spain) I would assume Hopkins og Zorro is Spaniard in the movie but I think Catherine zeta jones and Antonio were probably New Spaniard now Mexican but that’s just my guess either way most Mexicans love this movie regardless of casting
There's actually some discrepancies on which Zorro film Bruce saw as a kid. Being created in 1939 it would have made sense that the 1920 film would have been some inspiration and Alan Grant has claimed that it was this version, while in The Dark Knight Returns it states that it's the Tyrone Power version. Either way, see those both too everybody, the too slap.
Well I'm convinced... my memories of this as a child were in fact valid and I should never doubt myself again. To the nearest available streaming service!
The mask of Zorro (with Banderas) was my very first movie I saw on a big cinema. When the movie stars with the Z mark it was so loud! I jumped from my seat. But it was worth it. ❤️
I just watched this movie for the first time like a month ago. It was amazing and made me want to see that Zorro Django Unchained comic become a movie with Antonio Banderas back as Old Man Zorro.
I have never forgotten about this film. Mask of Zorro & 1993's The Three Musketeers are burnt into my mind in regards of just cathartic swashbuckling fun, and will never not hold a beautiful cape filled sabre place in my heart.
I Love The Mask of Zorro! It's one of my favorite adventure/Romance films of the 90's, and James Horner's musical score doesn't receive enough attention! The end titles song "I Want To Spend My Lifetime Loving You" is absolutely gorgeous and was written by Horner and Will Jennings, who also wrote "My Heart Will Go On" for Titanic!
BRO, I love how your channel's developing. It's exciting when you get to watch someone grow with every episode. Your passion and knowledge combined with your increasingly clever and sophisticated delivery makes you one of my favourite creators. Keep it up! Also, can I ask for a little John Cassavetes?
The Mask of Zorro was one of my favorite movies growing up - I have NEVER forgotten how awesome it is - thank you for explaining why it's so fucking amazing. My best to you and your loved ones during this time, stay healthy and sane!
This movie pays homage to the real life Zorro. Alejandro's brother in the movie is Joaquin Murieta, the real life inspiration for both Zorro and Batman. Which is why the Confederste says "I consider this an honor" when he goes to shoot him. The Confederate is named and based off the California Ranger who had Joaquin's head brought back in a jar, like the movie. The movie also splits Joaquin's real story of his wife and brother being killed.
Your video essays are always so fun and original, I think more people need to take a page out of your book about having an idea and just going for it instead of being conventional all the time. It keeps things unexpectedly entertaining and fresh. Love your channel, and I'm always looking forward to your next video.
I dressed up as Zorro when I was 4 years old for a Halloween and this video brought back my love. I really want to see the movie again. Great video! :)
"I dont know why we forgot how good The Mask of Zorro is" Not all of us did. This thing came out of nowhere and was absolutely everything it shouldve been. That song, that opening, being campy without being negatively cheesy, all of it. I'm glad i saw this in theaters. You bring up some really good points. wish people in hollywood would take notes as you do.
Thank you Patrick! Finally someone's acknowledging this masterpiece. But you forgot about the secondary villain's name, which is "Capitán Love". This makes him literally the best villain since the invention of fire.
That you keep making your character go further and further off the deep end each episode, dragging your family and friends with you shows that you have an insane amount of courage; God Bless you.
“Pose, because it's cool“ Yes! Indefinitely yes! Jojo-memes aside, (but still, Jojo poses are the pinnacle of poses) we need more shots for the sake of being memorable
I agree, "Pose, because it's cool" can be fun and memorable and a great callback to the visual medium many of these characters sprang from, but it can be taken to extremes. If all you're concerned about is making a movie full of cool poses and not, y'know, plot or character arcs, it can go awry pretty fast. Posing purely for the sake of looking cool is a tool in the toolbox, never abuse it.
Dude I used to love this movie as a kid, every time it aired (and since the not-cable tv channels which were the only ones we had access to) knew which movies would give more audience, they'd periodically, at least once or twice a year air some movies, and The Mask of Zorro was one of them, and I was hyped about it every single time. I thought about it once a couple months back imagining if it was good at all (growing up I found out some things i liked as a child and teenager weren't so good); watched as many clips as I could find on youtube and confirmed it actually was probably that good. Watching this video reassured me even more, this movie is all that. My younger self was right to want to watch it so many times
17:00 the reason this happens is because the inimitable James Horner (unmentioned in this video - CRIMINAL!) writes those end themes, and then weaves them into his soundtracks. David Arnold did the same thing with his Bond scores, except they swapped out the Tomorrow Never Dies theme (now in the end credits) for that garbage song by Sheryl Crow.
I'm a new Willems devotee - love what you do! I agree that "Mask of Zorro" is a delightful swashbuckling adventure that sizzles. Its Achilles heel, for me, is that its too cartoonish at times - for instance the "whoop" sound effect when two bad guys slide off a ramp, or the lack of danger/tension when Banderas' Zorro gets piled on by 20 guys and just crawls out from beneath them. And lots of little nitpicks like that - for Spanish speakers, having the two little kids go, "Ajúa!" twice is laughable. It has elements of a WB Roadrunner cartoon, which detracts from the 'feel' I believe it should have. But overall, it's great fun.
I just love that this video exists. Also, James Horner will always be my favorite composer and his theme for this movie is always top tier Horner goodness.
Ah, but only Antonio Banderas' character is actually Mexican. Don Diego (and his daughter) are Spanish and are played by Welsh actors. Banderas', however, is actually Spanish playing a Mexican.
I remember going to see this in theaters with my mom when I was a kid and we were both blown away when it ended. I have a vivid memory of marching into my family's computer room (remember when that was a thing?) that night to tell my older brothers how great it was and how they needed to see it. Been years and years since I've seen MASK - very, very happy to hear that it holds up! Thanks for spreading the good word and for another great "Patrick Explains"
I absolutely loved this. I will now be postponing my playthrough of Assassin's Creed: Odyssey in favor of watching The Mask of Zorro. Thank you for bringing this movie to my attention. See you again in a couple of hours. Update: It was a delightful movie. I loved it more than your video. :D
If you noticed my hand disappears in a few shots, congratulations! Instead of posting a comment about it, why not instead sign up for CuriosityStream and get a free subscription to Nebula, where my short film will be premiering curiositystream.com/patrickhwillems/
You forgot to mention the 1990 series that ran on the family channel. Zorro rules!
I was too distracted by the echo in the room.
And an interesting piece of trivia. The same composer did the score of this and Willow. There are more than a few reused cues with a Latin flare
Nebula is hot. I'd sign up for her.
Iconography in Super hero Movies... BLADE and BLADE II
“Can we PLEASE get back to the matter at hand?”
“Agreed. Patrick, you were saying about Zorro?”
lolololololol
When people say "why dont we see such great wide-shot sword fights anymore?" Bob Anderson is why. He was an absolute legend, and we all feel his departure from cinema. RIP, Bob, we miss you!
Regarding the fight scenes: the sword instructor for the movie was the late Bob Anderson. He worked on Princess Bride, Highlander, and Lord of the Rings; was a fencing coach to everyone from Errol Flynn to Johnny Depp, and a fight double for Darth Vader. He served as a Royal Marine in WWII and represented Britain in fencing at the Helsinki Olympics. That, my friends, is a lifetime to be proud of.
He's absolutely correct: this movie was the shit. Also, Antonio Banderas could do no wrong in the mid-to-late 90's, Desperado with Selma Hayek was hot enough to light up the eastern seaboard.
Desperado's up there with Equilibrium and T2 in my favorite action movies.
@@jordansweet8054 trainspotting 2?
i mean, its surprisingly good, but i wouldnt call it an action movie.
@@louistheriault3900 Action-Adventure. It's got explosions, horse chases, sword fights. What more do you need?
@@rycolligan i was making a joke about Jordan Sweet saying that T2 was his favourite action movie and mistaking T2 for trainspotting 2.
The epicest part of this is having Neil Breen being Patrick's lawyer.
WHO IS PATRICK WHERE IS HE WHAT IS HE
I definitely did a double take. I only know about Neil Breen thanks to RedLetterMedia, but I still love this.
Hahahahahaha!!!!!
That's not really Neil Breen
Ross Stern you must be fun at parties
I want a new cycle of Antonio Benderas being the old Zorro and teaching a new one keeping the chronology. Zorro in 1845.
Take my money already. and bring please Catherine Zeta-Jones back too.
I remember seeing the sequel as a child in the cinema and it was terrible even then.
Henry G ya....that sequel was horrible. that’s why the new one has to be a reboot! Each new zorro until it reaches Batman...but now my idea sounds extra dumb and too much like a regular movie exec. So I’ll go back lurking.
Hell ya
Probably the new Zorro will be bisexual or non binary
I LOVED this movie as a kid, it even started me on a whole Zorro craze where I went back and watched the old Disney show, which is also pretty great. Then I grew up, and like the rest of humanity forgot about this movie. A few months ago, I had a free afternoon and was scrolling through Netflix and what did I find? The Mask of Fucking Zorro. And god damn, this movie kicks so much ass. No surprise when you take the writers of Aladdin and Pirates of the Caribbean and team them up with the director of Casino Royale to do a reboot of the character that inspired Batman. Go see this movie!
29 year old Cathrine Zeta Jones was indeed 'staggeringly hot'.
Even today she doesn’t look that bad.
My sexual awakening happened during the dress slashing scene.
she aged very well.
Finally someone acknowledges how good this movie is!
"Agreed... Can we get back to Zorro?" :D
I damn near chocked laughing at the avalanche of gold bars. That's some seriously funny revenge.
Will Patrick be moving back in to the barn?
The wildcat roars during the explosions just kill me! XD
I watched that movie at the theather, with my parents and i think i was about 8 years old. Thank god we weren´t mugged.
Noan Manji
But you could’ve been Batman!
@@JAGmufc1 i´m not afraid of bats, i´m afraid of heights, it would´ve been weird
Noan Manji I see what you just did here...
Dude, same! Except, I went to the theater with my friend and his mom.
Same! I was a huge fan of both the 50s show and the animated show that was running at the time. Loved almost every second of it (the head in a jar scarred me for years). Underrated classic with an impeccable cast. Even at that age you could tell Catherine Zeta-Jones was so hot she could set the atmosphere on fire.
The spanish version of the intro song of the disney show goes like this:
"En su corcel, (in his horse)
cuando sale la luna, (when the moon rises)
aparece el bravo Zorro, (the brave Zorro appears)
al hombre del mal (the man of evil)
el sabrá castigar (he'll know how to punish)
marcando la zeta del zorro (marking the z of zorro)
¡Zorro!, ¡Zorro!, ¡su espada no fallará! (Zorro, Zorro, his sword shall not fail)
¡Zorro!, ¡Zorro!, ¡la zeta el marcará!" (Zorro, Zorro, the z he will mark)
Just wanted to share it cus it's also awesome. Loved the video!
also, zorro = fox
Also, not "in" his horse. He wasn't doing a DiCaprio in The Revenant (thank goodness).
It actually works better en Español....
The french version (and a dodgy translation from me) for those interested:
« Un cavalier qui surgit hors de la nuit (A rider, out of the night)
Court vers l'aventure au galop (gallop to adventure.)
Son nom, il le signe à la pointe de l'épée (His name, he signes it with the point of his sword)
D'un Z qui veut dire Zorro (By a Z meaning Zorro)
Zorro ! Zorro ! Renard rusé qui fait sa loi (Zorro! Zorro! Crafty fox doing his own law)
Zorro ! Zorro ! Vainqueur tu l'es à chaque fois » (Zorro! Zorro! Victorious you are every time)
Italian version
"Là sulla duna, quando brilla la luna
spunta il nostro eroe Zorro
che lascia il suo segno,
una Z, a chi è indegno
la Z che vuol dire Zorro.
Zorro, Zorro... lui ha la vita segreta
Zorro, Zorro... il segno suo è la Z.
Zorro, Zorro, Zorro...."
This guy gets it!
I probably wore out my VHS copy of Mask of Zorro as a kid and got really bummed out in recent years realizing how many people don't remember it or haven't seen it.
I LOVE Mask of Zorro, this movie definitely doesn't get as much praise as it deserves. Thanks for the great video!
Zorro in general needs more praise, that's what my channel does
"Is there a gas leak?!" best line
Favorite f***ing line in the movie:
“All the training! All the wise words! And for what?! To smile in the face of my brother’s killer while you make your own plans?!” THE MEAT!!!
Bruh, Antonio Banderas Brought the fucking heat with that line
Edna: “No Capes!”
Patrick: “More capes!”
Seriously though, Antonio Banderas in Zorro is the funniest, sexiest and hell-yeah-iest hero it was ever Swashbuckled-in the last forty years anyway.
I think Cinemawins will also join Patrick.
The Mask of Zorro is such a satisfying movie.
Patrick, let me tell you, All over Latinamerica, El Zorro is a very popular character, who has fans of all ages. In Argentina we have the Guy Williams's Student, Fernando Lupis, who inherit the original suit and sword of Williams himself. Lots of fans of El Zorro made their voices being heard when two years ago, the channel 13, who streamed El Zorro for at least 30 years decided to quit the show from schedule.
(Sorry my rough english)
Sweet
Hell yeah. And we watched this movie all the way through our childhood in TELEFE
@@santiagofari6141 Claro que si!!!
Yes, i came here to say this. I'm from Argentina too and here El Zorro is HUGE. "Canal 13" (one of the biggest TV Stations) has been doing reruns from decades and it still has good rating, sometimes even surpassing the competence of the other channels in the same time.
@@germanleal Y encima tenés el nikname de Luffy Afro!!! Groso!!!
Count of Monte Cristo! Finally someone said it - Inigo Montoya (The Princess Bride) + Wade Garett (Roadhouse) = Murietta + Vega
"Here's the thing, Zorro F**is!" Absolutely made my day.
This movie is absolutely a gem. Thanks for this love fest
Wish you’d have given some love to James Horner’s awesome score. So many great instrument choices and the theme is underrated as hell. Also, no love for the legendary 3 fingered jack pick axe moment??
exactly!
...also, still one of my favorite film scores of all time. James Horner, I miss you.
I remember when I saw the most recent Lone Ranger (with Johnny Depp), I thought "they should have gotten the same people who did The Mask of Zorro. It was a great movie. I agree with your commentary completely.
And your mom is charming.
When this came out every one laughed at Anthony Hopkins wearing eyeliner...
Everyone laughed! Everyone except Johnny Depp.
I also like the sequel. Not as much as this one but it is entertaining. Would like to watch a few more zorro movies with banderas
You get a like for mentioning that Anthony Hopkins and Catherine Zeta Jones are Welsh! 🏴
Just like Raiders Of The Lost Ark, this is perfectly directed, cast, acted, written, shot, produced, choreographed, edited, and scored!
i cant believe, that was my favourite movie of all time when i was a kid and since my dad died like 12 years ago i just erased that from my mind, and now it's all coming back to me
i love you so much, thank you for that video patrick
Patrick does it again. We JUST WATCHED THIS again two nights ago!!
It was part of our "hey I remember this movie and now it's streaming" trilogy, after The Rocketeer and Flight of the Navigator.
Mask of Zorro was my favourite movie as a kid. I still love it now . Thank you for the video Patrick!
The mask of Zorro, the Count of Monte Christo (2002) and pirates of the Caribbean curse of the Black Pearl are my favorite modern “swashbucklers” awesome video! Would love to see one on the 2002 Count of Monte Christo
I rewatched Mask of Zorro a few days ago and forgot how much I loved it as a teenager. It's got everything, this video is 100%
Now you're going to have to explain Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves.
Yes! But he'll have to analyse its origins in Robin of Sherwood.
OR The Princess Bride, might be my favourite adventure movie
@@GrainneMhaol Robin of Sherwood was AFAIK the first incarnation of Robin Hood to have a "good guy" Saracen (i.e. Arab/Muslim) among the Merry Men, and almost every live-action version since has done the same. (The "good" Saracen is a fairly common trope in medieval literature--a couple show up in the extended Arthurian legends and one is the main heroine's love interest in the epic poem Orlando Furioso--so not only am I totally cool with it being added to the Robin Hood mythos, a medieval audience wouldn't have found it unusual.)
@@digitaljanus Also, Kevins Costner and Reynolds watched the pilot of RoS on repeat for ideas. They literally thought Nasir was part of the original story.
Prince of Thieves is great, but The Adventures of Robin Hood is, in my opinion, much better.
This sort of content is why I love this channel.
This video gave me chills. This is one of my favorite movies and no one remembers how beautifully crafted it was
Fantastic video. I agree with everything you said, and you've echoed many of my own thoughts about the movie. Also something I just noticed while rewatching the film today: Cpt. Love says to Zorro "Two men, one death" referring to him and his alter-ego. Then moments later, Rafael Montero comes crashing down on top of him and they both plummet to their deaths; two men, one death. Brilliant.
pausing to go rewatch Mask of zorro. back in a mo to watch the rest of this.
Edit: It took me like 10 hours because my attention span has shot to hell since I got a smart phone but I did it. Mask of Zorro is fresh in my mind as I watch this.
Little-known fact: Robert Rodriguez was initially hired to direct THE MASK OF ZORRO and was the one who cast Antonio Banderas. But due to budget disputes with the studio, he left, getting replaced by Martin Campbell.
Not only that, but prior to his untimely death, Raul Julia was considered for the role of Don Diego. THAT would have been a hell of a thing to see.
This movie is a masterpiece! One of the best James Horner scores ever too!
Mask of Zorro is a fucking banger. Patrick, your Mom is so wonderful, I love it when she pops into videos. I’m glad you’re with your family and that you’re all doing okay. Keep making videos if you can! Even low budge ones would be rad, it’s a weird world out there right now....
Fun fact: Alejandro's brother is Joaquin Murrieta, a real-life inspiration for the character of Zorro.
Absolutely yes!!
I would say that the '93 "The Three Musketeers" gets a lot of this right as well. Yes, it is silly, but it's also charming. There are capes, hats, real choreographed swordfights, a (tragic) lovestory and a (less tragic) lovestory. A really nasty villain (oh, Mr. Curry) with a very nasty sidekick. Iconic shots, horse-based comedy. AND it's even got the themed pop-song at the end. Why did movies stop doing that?
Coincidentally also done in the '20s by Doug Fairbanks - he knew how to pick 'em!
With Bryan Adams, Sting and Rod Stewart truetting!
It's a crime that many people forget this movie exists.
The Mask of Zorro was one if my favorite movies growing up. I watched it over and over and over again, and I was completely in love with Antonio Banderas for years.
Film Theory, is the Patrick Explains series a prequel to the current Video Essay season?
Wow. How do you feel now that that's been absolutely confirmed? I imagine you're ecstatic.
The Zorro TV show was on tv EVERY DAY FOR 16 YEARS straight in Argentina until last year.
Is your lawyer Neil Breen? Director of those really weird low budget films that are too ridiculous yet amazing???
thats so awesome
He looks like him 20 years from now.
If so, that was the best acting of his career!
"You cannot die. Why? Why did you do that"
I'm pretty sure it's him!
Patrick said on Twitter that it's not Neil Breen, just an old art teacher of his. #eyesOnBreen
So good to see this movie get some recognition. I've long considered it a perfect movie. Everything the movie tries to achieve, it does, with flair and charm and gusto.
I love that the adds are done by Patricks Parents. It makes it so fun to watch and worth it.
Also, now I gotta find Mask of Zorro to watch.
Bravo! Just happened to watch this movie on Netflix last week so it couldn't be any fresher in my mind. I remember seeing this in the theater with my family and EVERYONE enjoyed it. Very rare for a movie like this that can entertain and please everybody!
I never forgot about this, was one of my favs as a kid. Seeing Zorro cut down that dress might've been the first time I felt aroused. Later one, realising Martin Campbell did the best bond films and this, he is truely one of the greatest modern action directors.
Thank you so much for talking about it. When I was a child, Zorro was my favorite fictional character and this movie was one of my favorite movies (like the third most favorite after Mulan and The Mummy). This movie was one of the main reasons that I, a person who used to hate sports or any physical activity at all, ended up learning sword fighting.
I love the narrative frame or little sketch that you intersperse throughout. Incredibly unique.
The Guardians films almost have some good sexuality, but it's just often undermined by Starlord's arrested development and immaturity.
Heh. I see what you did there.
15:28
"Look at this guy; his whole vibe is that he's plotting to phase-stab his hand into your heart and wish for nothing but the destruction of the Flash for the next sixteen years."
Back then, when I heard there would be a Zorro movie I was so hooked even though I was still a child. I knew (and loved) Zorro through an anime serie which aired around 1995/96. I liked about Zorro that he had the confidence to protect his family and friends by acting like a coward as Diego to get the least attention from the bad guys. A huge difference to Bruce Wayne and Tony Stark who acted always so cocky and loved the spotlight. That's why I admire Zorro as a hero so much: He doesn't do the hero stuff for his ego or he feels guilty, he does it because it's the right thing to do.
I’ll be watching this movie tonight!
The Count of Monte Cristo absolutely rocks imo!!
And is your new lawyer Charl?
YES. Count of Monte Cristo PLEASE!!
Which Count of Monte Cristo? The Robert Donat version, the Richard Chamberlain version or the Jim Caveisel version?
The amount of joy and validation I felt when I saw this video title was unprecedented and I leave the video 0% disappointed, so entertained, and with a continued and reawoken love for the genius that is this movie. I had no idea how much I needed this. Thank you!!
Catherine Zeta-Jones and Anthony Hopkins weren't supposed to be Mexican. If I understand it correctly they're supposed to be Spanish.
True, most Zorro stories take place in the period when California was a Spanish territory, rather than claimed by Mexico or the United States. That being said, a few stories state that Diego's mother was Native American, so more diversity in casting future projects certainly wouldn't be a bad thing.
Diego de la Vega is supposed to be a Spaniard, sure, but he seemed to be married to a local Mexican who seems to be a "mestiza" ("mixed race"), so Helena should be mestiza as well.
That being said, there are plenty of "mestizos" who look quite European depending on ancestry, and Catherine Zeta-Jones could easily pass as a Spaniard herself, so there's that.
As for Alejandro, maybe he could be a low-class "criollo" (people born in the Americas, but of Spaniard descent).
They were Californios. Spanish, indigenous and mixed.
They’re not Spanish either.
It might depend on the time there seemed to be Mexican soldiers who were Rafael’s goons and the presence of an American like captain love tells me that this is after Mexico gains independence from Spain (obviously formerly being new Spain) I would assume Hopkins og Zorro is Spaniard in the movie but I think Catherine zeta jones and Antonio were probably New Spaniard now Mexican but that’s just my guess either way most Mexicans love this movie regardless of casting
There's actually some discrepancies on which Zorro film Bruce saw as a kid. Being created in 1939 it would have made sense that the 1920 film would have been some inspiration and Alan Grant has claimed that it was this version, while in The Dark Knight Returns it states that it's the Tyrone Power version. Either way, see those both too everybody, the too slap.
Well I'm convinced... my memories of this as a child were in fact valid and I should never doubt myself again. To the nearest available streaming service!
The mask of Zorro (with Banderas) was my very first movie I saw on a big cinema. When the movie stars with the Z mark it was so loud! I jumped from my seat. But it was worth it. ❤️
I just watched this movie for the first time like a month ago. It was amazing and made me want to see that Zorro Django Unchained comic become a movie with Antonio Banderas back as Old Man Zorro.
Dear Hollywood, MAKE THIS FUCKING HAPPEN! How would Quentin Tarantino do zorro?
And it is canon because it was co-written by Tarantino.
I don't want it to be Antonio Banderas, it's supposed to be Diego in the role of Old Man Zorro in the comic
I have never forgotten about this film.
Mask of Zorro & 1993's The Three Musketeers are burnt into my mind in regards of just cathartic swashbuckling fun, and will never not hold a beautiful cape filled sabre place in my heart.
I Love The Mask of Zorro! It's one of my favorite adventure/Romance films of the 90's, and James Horner's musical score doesn't receive enough attention! The end titles song "I Want To Spend My Lifetime Loving You" is absolutely gorgeous and was written by Horner and Will Jennings, who also wrote "My Heart Will Go On" for Titanic!
Not just another celine dion song ,but by other artists like Marc Anthony & Tina Arena , two hottest singers in late 90s still dated .
I cannot express the horror I experienced at you overlooking the 1990s Family Channel Zorro TV show.
No mention of James Horner's fantastic score? Also, the movie makes a distinction between California & Mexico.
BRO, I love how your channel's developing. It's exciting when you get to watch someone grow with every episode. Your passion and knowledge combined with your increasingly clever and sophisticated delivery makes you one of my favourite creators. Keep it up! Also, can I ask for a little John Cassavetes?
Catherine Zeta-Jones is insanely hot in this film.
The Mask of Zorro was one of my favorite movies growing up - I have NEVER forgotten how awesome it is - thank you for explaining why it's so fucking amazing. My best to you and your loved ones during this time, stay healthy and sane!
The world needs more of your mother's charm and your father's humor.
I’ll have you know that I never forgot how much this movie SLAPS. Pure late 90’s swashbuckling joy. Love it. Great vid Pat
This movie pays homage to the real life Zorro. Alejandro's brother in the movie is Joaquin Murieta, the real life inspiration for both Zorro and Batman. Which is why the Confederste says "I consider this an honor" when he goes to shoot him. The Confederate is named and based off the California Ranger who had Joaquin's head brought back in a jar, like the movie. The movie also splits Joaquin's real story of his wife and brother being killed.
I didn't forget this movie, Patrick! I was beyond excited when I saw the title, and you did this old gem justice!
Me: based on his tweets, it'll probably be Zorro
*Video comes out*
Me: I knew it!
It's my favourite movie of all time... At last, somebody talks about this perfection of a movie on TH-cam.
I think it's really underrated.
It absolutely is...it was my favorite movie when it came out and I appreciate it more with every viewing. A classic at it's finest!
The best way to get me sign me up for anything is Patrick saying "be Like my mom".
Your video essays are always so fun and original, I think more people need to take a page out of your book about having an idea and just going for it instead of being conventional all the time. It keeps things unexpectedly entertaining and fresh. Love your channel, and I'm always looking forward to your next video.
Tangent 1985's Quarantine video brought me here. Awesome video. I love this movie!
I dressed up as Zorro when I was 4 years old for a Halloween and this video brought back my love. I really want to see the movie again. Great video! :)
It really is ALWAYS funny when a horse moves out of the way of someone jumping onto it. Classic! Please be safe!
"I dont know why we forgot how good The Mask of Zorro is"
Not all of us did. This thing came out of nowhere and was absolutely everything it shouldve been. That song, that opening, being campy without being negatively cheesy, all of it. I'm glad i saw this in theaters. You bring up some really good points. wish people in hollywood would take notes as you do.
Thank you Patrick! Finally someone's acknowledging this masterpiece. But you forgot about the secondary villain's name, which is "Capitán Love". This makes him literally the best villain since the invention of fire.
That you keep making your character go further and further off the deep end each episode, dragging your family and friends with you shows that you have an insane amount of courage; God Bless you.
“Pose, because it's cool“
Yes! Indefinitely yes! Jojo-memes aside, (but still, Jojo poses are the pinnacle of poses) we need more shots for the sake of being memorable
I agree, "Pose, because it's cool" can be fun and memorable and a great callback to the visual medium many of these characters sprang from, but it can be taken to extremes. If all you're concerned about is making a movie full of cool poses and not, y'know, plot or character arcs, it can go awry pretty fast. Posing purely for the sake of looking cool is a tool in the toolbox, never abuse it.
@@susanhillwig5784 It's like big explosions. Overdue it and it becomes bland. But if you do it exactly when appropirate, it becomes awesome!
This movie is so full of BIG emotions, played with total sincerity, that it earns every pose.
Dude I used to love this movie as a kid, every time it aired (and since the not-cable tv channels which were the only ones we had access to) knew which movies would give more audience, they'd periodically, at least once or twice a year air some movies, and The Mask of Zorro was one of them, and I was hyped about it every single time. I thought about it once a couple months back imagining if it was good at all (growing up I found out some things i liked as a child and teenager weren't so good); watched as many clips as I could find on youtube and confirmed it actually was probably that good. Watching this video reassured me even more, this movie is all that. My younger self was right to want to watch it so many times
17:00 the reason this happens is because the inimitable James Horner (unmentioned in this video - CRIMINAL!) writes those end themes, and then weaves them into his soundtracks.
David Arnold did the same thing with his Bond scores, except they swapped out the Tomorrow Never Dies theme (now in the end credits) for that garbage song by Sheryl Crow.
I'm a new Willems devotee - love what you do! I agree that "Mask of Zorro" is a delightful swashbuckling adventure that sizzles. Its Achilles heel, for me, is that its too cartoonish at times - for instance the "whoop" sound effect when two bad guys slide off a ramp, or the lack of danger/tension when Banderas' Zorro gets piled on by 20 guys and just crawls out from beneath them. And lots of little nitpicks like that - for Spanish speakers, having the two little kids go, "Ajúa!" twice is laughable. It has elements of a WB Roadrunner cartoon, which detracts from the 'feel' I believe it should have. But overall, it's great fun.
Nailed it!
I just love that this video exists. Also, James Horner will always be my favorite composer and his theme for this movie is always top tier Horner goodness.
Fun fact: Zorro is based on an actual outlaw named Joaquin Murrieta. When he was caught and killed his head was put in a jar.
Man Patrick your parents seem like awesome people. All the best, stay healthy, and thanks for the vid!
All I want is to have Patrick's mom call him "Paddy." Bonus points for it to be a response to him doing something silly and she says, "Oh, Paddy."
Brilliant point about the iconography not being distracting because you are aware it is not meant to be part of the scenes, but to frame them.
Ah, but only Antonio Banderas' character is actually Mexican. Don Diego (and his daughter) are Spanish and are played by Welsh actors. Banderas', however, is actually Spanish playing a Mexican.
The only way to balance all this would be to have Mexican actors playing Welsh characters.
I remember going to see this in theaters with my mom when I was a kid and we were both blown away when it ended. I have a vivid memory of marching into my family's computer room (remember when that was a thing?) that night to tell my older brothers how great it was and how they needed to see it.
Been years and years since I've seen MASK - very, very happy to hear that it holds up! Thanks for spreading the good word and for another great "Patrick Explains"
I absolutely loved this. I will now be postponing my playthrough of Assassin's Creed: Odyssey in favor of watching The Mask of Zorro. Thank you for bringing this movie to my attention. See you again in a couple of hours.
Update: It was a delightful movie. I loved it more than your video.
:D
It slaps.
these 'and why its great' videos are your best series. they're my favorite videos on youtube, keep making these!