Rating summary
| Movie |  | 4.0 |
| Video | | 4.0 |
| Audio |  | 3.5 |
| Extras |  | 3.0 |
| Overall | | 4.0 |
The Mark of Zorro Blu-ray Movie Review
Reviewed by Brian Orndorf July 28, 2016
Zorro is an icon that has been shaped through all forms of media, passed down through generations since his 1919 debut. There are iconic depictions of the character, but rarely has one interpretation encountered universal approval like 1940’s “The Mark of Zorro,” where star Tyrone Power picked up the sword and the mask and made a hero soar across the screen. Directed by Rouben Mamoulian, “The Mark of Zorro” hits all genre sweet spots, keeping Power and his co-stars front and center to bring complete charisma to the production, which has just as much fun watching the talent interact as it does staging sword fights and chases.
What’s interesting about “The Mark of Zorro” is how little action it really has. Mamoulian keeps the movie character-based, working to build proper motivations that inspire cinematic battles of contempt and threat. While derring-do eventually emerges to give Zorro a lift of heroism and intimidation, it takes longer than expected to reach such familiarity. Storytelling is a priority to the helmer, who carefully crafts an adventure for Don Diego Vega before he lets Zorro out to play. Once unleashed, the Z-slashing defender emerges from time to time, but “The Mark of Zorro” would rather remain with Power and his effortless star power.
The Mark of Zorro Blu-ray Movie, Video Quality
The AVC encoded image (1.31:1 aspect ratio) presentation handles "The Mark of Zorro" comfortably, with a secure cinematographic balance and satisfactory delineation. Detail is adequate, capturing passionate facial responses and costume textures, while set decoration is open for study. Source encounters speckling, but no major points of damage.
The Mark of Zorro Blu-ray Movie, Audio Quality
The 2.0 DTS-HD MA sound mix capably supports the high-flying score for "The Mark of Zorro." Although highs threaten disaster, balance is maintained with excitable instrumentation. Dialogue exchanges are comfortable, managing accents and big action. Hiss and pops are detected throughout, but nothing pronounced enough to distract.
The Mark of Zorro Blu-ray Movie, Special Features and Extras
- Commentary features film critic Richard Schickel.
- "Tyrone Power: The Last Idol" (43:03, SD) is a 1996 episode of "Biography" that tracks the career and concerns of the matinee idol, focusing on his troubled domestic life and professional frustrations. Family and friends are interviewed, exploring a more human side to the actor.
- Promo (1:45, SD) is included.
The Mark of Zorro Blu-ray Movie, Overall Score and Recommendation
"The Mark of Zorro" eventually locks into swashbuckling mode, including a battle royal finale that gifts swords and rage to all combatants. It's an amusing picture, but not quite the thrill ride perhaps some are expecting from the brand name. This "Zorro" values relationships and antagonisms more than straight action, building a richer viewing experience before it indulges the obvious payoff.
