Francantolin, I absolutely was powerfully moved by the Zorro movies! from the old Fairbanks films, Tyrone Power in the later versions, and of course the Disney series. Growing up in Southern Calif. the Spanish influence, scenery and the architecture of course was all around.
It was of course the SWASHBUCKLING that piqued the 'heroic' gene in most of us as young boys, and for me in later years taking fencing. Actually much of what we studied was 'stage combat' which naturally was quite a bit different from the more regulated forms with foil, saber and epee.
From what I have understood, in many cases swords were somehow rebated or altered to prevent injuries, but not always adequately. Many of the stars were actually trained in swordplay, but one of the most dangerous situations were being paired with opponents less than properly trained. Usually it was the more dynamic actions used in staged combat that injuries might occur, as these were by no means part of normal swordplay.
Sgt. Garcia was indeed a colorful character, and these performances would not have been the same without him!
Im glad you guys have mentioned these comics and stories which I had not heard of and now am interested in learning more on them!
Werecow, great on that TAKOUBA! and you should NEVER let it go! It has served as the benchmark for the joyful adventure you, like us, have gone into lifelong! I still have my first 'purchased' sword too......it was a rusty relic of a British M1796 heavy cavalry sword, which had the blade broken and welded back together. It was a lot of $ for me in those days, but what excited my young awareness was it matched a picture of one in a book. Then I began reading about the history of these swords, and that they were carried at Waterloo! It was thrilling to have and hold a sword like the ones carried by the Scots Greys in that battle! History came alive!
