Like it or not, the character Zorro has slipped into the Public Domain. Don’t get too excited with your publishing plans, though. The owners of the Zorro copyright are very watchful when someone attempts to trot out a Zorro publication or production. There are lots of rules to follow when doing so, and you’re bound to get a Cease & Desist if you try, regardless of whether or not you’re on the right side of the law.
Anyway, it’s still fun to try plying the Zorro concept for a hispanic hero that’s trying to beat the man. That’s the challenge that came from the group at Public Domain Heroes: Redesign Zorro for modern use. (To learn more about what’s in the public domain, check out the Public Domain Super Hero Wiki.)
Definitely not Zorro
Comics on the Brain offered this design to Public Domain Super Heroes for a Zorro-esque character. He doesn’t really have to be Zorro, either. He could be something else. Something with a Z in the name. Well call him … Zeta … Or maybe Zebra … Or Zappa … Or Zinc … Or Zero … Or Zeto … Or Zag … Just anything with a Z!
This Z-hero wields sabers, yes, but he’s also ready for business. He rides in on a sharp motorcycle, battles injustice and protects himself with the special Kevlar pads built into his forearm guards. He keeps his identity secret with a kerchief and a domino mask.
And remember, the character who was first introduced in 1919’s “The Curse of Capistrano” has a name that translates from Spanish to “fox” in English. That’s why we’re using orange, gray and white here. Maybe his high school or college team has a fox mascot, hence the color selection.
Whatever the case, this guy is definitely not that first Z-guy, and we’re offended by your implications that it is.
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