Common Sense Media Review
Violent '90s action-adventure epic has some gore.
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The Mask of Zorro
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 5 parent reviews
Based on 12 kid reviews
Kids say that the movie is a blend of humor, action, and romance, with some intense and graphic scenes that can be disturbing, especially for younger viewers. Despite its violence and gore, many appreciate the cinematography and engaging storytelling, viewing it as a fun yet cautionary adventure.
- humor
- violence
- romance
- stunning visuals
- cautionary tale
- engaging storytelling
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
THE MASK OF ZORRO is built upon the development of the father-son relationship and engagingly explores the family dynamics that result. The story begins with Diego de la Vegas' (Anthony Hopkins) capture by Don Rafael Montero (Stuart Wilson), an evil American cavalry officer. Montero murders Zorro's wife and steals his infant child, Elena (Catherine Zeta-Jones). Twenty years later, the former Zorro seeks to train a younger replacement so that he may avenge the death of his wife and retrieve his now grown daughter. Zorro chooses Alejandro Murrieta (Antonio Banderas) as his protégé. Together, they battle Montero with courage and bravery.
Is It Any Good?
The Mask of Zorro rises above the banal Hollywood action film due to the fine performances of Anthony Hopkins and Antonio Banderas as the old and young Zorros. The overall plot is quite engaging and offers the traditional fun of watching heroes vanquish evil villains. However, if viewing a high-quality film with your child is what you are after, it's best to look elsewhere. The violence and gore may be too much for sensitive kids, as well.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the role adults have in training their children as future citizens. As with most action movies, the ambiguous morality of revenge is the film's central concern. Is it right for both Zorros to devote their lives to violence to avenge the wrongful deaths of their loved ones? When does justice become vigilantism? What is the proper role of individuals in righting clear social wrongs that are depicted in the film?
Beneath the action of the movie is the subtext of economic injustice. How does the movie convey this economic injustice, and how does this play into Zorro's overall motivations?
Zorro was a book character first created in 1919. Since then he has appeared in books, films, and television. Why do you think Zorro has a timeless appeal?
Movie Details
- In theaters : July 17, 1998
- On DVD or streaming : December 1, 1998
- Cast : Anthony Hopkins , Antonio Banderas , Catherine Zeta-Jones
- Director : Martin Campbell
- Studio : Columbia Tristar
- Genre : Action/Adventure
- Run time : 137 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : some intense action and violence
- Last updated : October 9, 2025
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