This film combines action with comedy and a touch of romance in a beautiful way. Despite having no audio dialogue, the actors play their parts with such emotion and emphasis that it becomes easy to understand, even through text on the screen, how each character talks, acts, and thinks. The stunts (all done by the actors themselves) are compelling, but with just enough comedy to leave you laughing as you sit anxiously waiting Zorro's inevitable escape. The script makes you feel for the characters and root for the protagonist, there is no gray area or confusion as sometimes happens with silent films, but also preserves just enough room for levity that you will find yourself laughing throughout the entire piece. The romance is sweet and compelling and is a beautiful touch to this already robust and entertaining film, without being overbearing. One technical note, the use of colors was amazing considering the technical limitations. While it is in black and white, they play with filters (sepia, blue, green) in order to clearly change between the different times of day and setting. Clever and really added to the immersion of the film. I really want to think of a drawback for this film, but I think it achieved exactly what it intended. Is it the greatest film ever, no, and it certainly won't change your life, but if you want to take a lighthearted step back into the world of 1920s silent films and experience the start of Zorro, this would be an amazing film to choose.
Review of The Mark of Zorro
