The story begins with the introduction of Zorro (Antonio Banderas), the charming and agile defender of the people of California. His real name is Don Diego de la Vega, who, under the guise of being a foppish nobleman, leads a double life as a skilled swordsman and thief. The tale takes a turn with the arrival of Elena Mendoz (Catherine Zeta-Jones), a beautiful and determined Spanish noblewoman, who comes to California seeking justice for her father's death.