Zorro (1957-1961)

All those superheroes these days dwindle into nothing compared to Zorro. First it was an adventure novel, then a comic book series, then a movie, then a TV series. Guy Williams was ideal for the role. He had the appearance of a Latin gentilhombre and the necessary agility. Zorro is cunning as a fox (el zorro) and unbeatable at fencing. This goes back to the popular swashbucklers from before 1940. His horse Tornado is lightning fast. His true identity is not revealed, although it is actually quite obvious.

It is set in 1820s Los Angeles, when California was still a Spanish colony. Zorro is the hero who stands up for the oppressed people. The Catholic Church is on the right side. Monastario is the stereotypical, clumsy villain. Sergeant Garcia provides a comic relief. Bernardo's sign language adds something visual, just like Zorro's hacienda and Z. There were lots of outdoor shots and well staged fights and breakouts. The series was in black and white, but was later colored in as well. It is understandable that this kept a lot of young people glued to the tube at the time, not to mention the many imitations and parodies.

Translated from Dutch · View original

Excellent first season with mostly two storylines. First of all, the Montasario era, the reason Diego returns to Los Angeles. He remains Zorro's finest enemy out of all seasons. Also in combination with the priest Diego often visits. In later phases of the series it is always different priests, which is a bit of a shame.

And then you have almost 20+ episodes around 'The Eagle'. Very well written and beautifully constructed. The actor who plays Vargo (The Eagle) is also very impressive. Especially when he's angry.

Translated from Dutch · View original