The Son of Monte Cristo (1940)

This is a funny film. It is basically a Zorro story by a different name. Quite enjoyable actors, plot and pacing. And great sword fights.


In 1865, General Gurko Lanen is dictator of "Lichtenburg" in the Balkans. The rightful ruler, Grand Duchess Zona, hopes to get aid from Napoleon III of France. The visiting Count of Monte Cristo falls for Zona and undertakes to help her, masquerading as a foppish banker and a masked freedom fighter. The rest is rapid-fire intrigue and derring-do. This film follows the same general story line as the Zorro stories.