July 17: The Mask of Zorro (1998)

Milestone Years

• 30th Anniversary: July 17, 2028
• 35th Anniversary: July 17, 2033
• 50th Anniversary: July 17, 2048

Inspiration Behind the Movie

The Mask of Zorro was inspired by Johnston McCulley’s pulp character Zorro, a masked vigilante fighting Spanish colonial corruption. The film aimed to revive classic swashbuckling tales for a modern audience while paying homage to the 1920s serials and previous Zorro films.

You Might Not Know

• Antonio Banderas trained extensively in fencing to perform most of his stunts.
• Anthony Hopkins wore brown contact lenses to match Banderas, portraying the older Zorro.
• Catherine Zeta-Jones was relatively unknown internationally before this breakout role.
• The film’s sword choreography was crafted by legendary stunt coordinator Bob Anderson.
• It helped spark renewed interest in swashbuckling adventures in late 1990s Hollywood.

Food Ideas

• Tapas platter with chorizo, olives, and manchego
• Paella with chicken and seafood
• Fresh guacamole and tortilla chips
• Churros with cinnamon sugar and chocolate sauce
• Red sangria with citrus and berries

Ways to Celebrate

• Host a Zorro-themed costume party
• Set up a backyard swordplay or fencing demo
• Watch vintage Zorro films before the main event
• Create DIY Zorro masks for guests
• Play a Spanish guitar playlist during your gathering

Filming Locations

The Mask of Zorro was filmed primarily in Mexico, with key scenes shot in Tlaxcala and San Luis Potosí. Many of the hacienda sets were built specially for the film but reflect authentic Spanish colonial architecture, making them visually striking and atmospheric on screen.