Episode 73 (cont)

(Zorro was forced to drop his sword, or the Sergeant would have been killed by Arrellanos. Now Arrellanos is about to terminate Zorro.)

One of my favorite aspects of Disney’s Zorro is the relationship between Diego and Bernardo. I particularly enjoyed the closing line of tonight’s episode where Bernardo, having actually come to blows on Zorro’s behalf (bet Gene Sheldon got a kick out of being the hero in that fight scene) stands by as everyone toasts their “heroes”.

The staging epitomizes Bernardo’s role in the lives of the people around him. He’s such a crucial part of things but no one knows, no one even notices him most of the time, so there he stands, off to the side while everyone else is in a merry circle around the table. It’s a metaphor for his life in general .

But Diego, despite the tension of sitting across from the man whom he just crossed swords with as Zorro, notices Bernardo’s wistful expression. In a lovely moment which I think embodies why their relationship is so valuable and meaningful to us as viewers, says, “Even Zorro must have a friend. I would like to toast that friend.” It goes right over everyone’s head but right to Bernardo’s heart, and he smiles, pouring a drink to toast himself (which in typical Gene Sheldon fashion he turns into a clever little bit of comedy as the glass overflows.)

Submitted by Shari Ann




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