Synopsis

In 1821 California, aging masked hero Don Diego de la Vega escapes imprisonment after losing his family and identity to corrupt governor Don Rafael Montero. He trains hotheaded outlaw Alejandro Murrieta to inherit the Zorro mantle. Together, they pursue justice, rescue Elena, and expose a scheme that threatens Mexico's independence.

Factoids & Trivia

• Principal photography began on January 27, 1997, and took place largely in Mexico, including Estudios Churubusco in Mexico City and locations in Tlaxcala, Hidalgo, Sonora, and Durango.

• Production was interrupted when the filmmaker became ill with bronchitis. Additional rewrites and complications eventually pushed the film about $10 million over its budget.

• Anthony Hopkins initially turned down the role of Don Diego because of severe back pain. After undergoing laser surgery, he was able to accept the part.

• Antonio Banderas performed many of the sword fights and stunts himself. The sunlight flashing along Zorro's blade during the final confrontation was his suggestion and was achieved practically rather than through computer effects.

• The costumes distinguish the two generations of Zorro: Don Diego's clothing reflects his Spanish background, while Alejandro's design emphasizes his Mexican heritage.

• The film received two Academy Award nominations, for Best Sound and Best Sound Effects Editing.

• Sony later faced a copyright dispute over the character. A judge rejected the company's request for an injunction, noting that the earliest Zorro material had entered the public domain.

• The film's commercial success led to the 2005 sequel *The Legend of Zorro*, which reunited the central pair but earned less than its predecessor.