On Z List of Movie Reviews

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Zorro, The Gay Blade (1981)

Rate: 9
Viewed: 4/04, 12/06, 3/12

GayB
12/06: Zorro, The Gay Blade is a refreshing breath of air after watching The Mask of Zorro and The Legend of Zorro.

It's one of the funniest films I've seen in my life and is quite high on the scale of creativity. I've forgotten how good it feels to watch George Hamilton being the jack of all trades. What makes this one far away the best compared to other Zorro films is that it stays true to the feeling of what the character represents and then wanders to the insane side of hilarity.

I've mentioned many times villains can play a large part in making a film likable only if they're as appealing as the hero. Well, there's no question Ron Leibman stole the show as the hated Alcalde. What a fantastic performance. He should've gotten an Oscar for it.

All in all, Zorro, The Gay Blade has my highest recommendation because it's so funny.

3/12: Although George Hamilton is sensational for playing the dual role of Zorro and his gay brother, it's Ron Leibman who completely steals the show.

Alcalde reaches the zenith of his insanity when he attempts to solve the riddle out of Zorro's colorful costumes, resulting in a salad mix. Then, he does this finger pointing to his taxmaster, making him sit down. One scene when Ron is walking like he's ssssaaaa and ssssswwwingg yoouurrr hipssss still cracks me up.

Pretty much, Ron Leibman owns the role by giving it all. He's brilliant, and it's Oscar material for sure. George Hamilton is outstanding, too, and perfectly cast as Zorro and his gay brother Bunny Wigglesworth. The whole film is pure farce with a great play on words that's based on a crazy but workable idea.

All in all, Ron Leibman is easily the Oscar winner for his performance in Zorro, The Gay Blade.