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This B&W adventure isn't quite as enjoyably goofy as most of the other Santo titles recently brought to DVD, but true fans of El Enmascarado de Plata will definitely want to check it out. In EL HACHA DIABOLICA ("The Diabolical Axe"), the wrestling superhero not only faces a most unusual villain but has his origin explained as well. Finally, the question "Where did Santo come from?" (at least the luchadore's movie incarnation) is answered. Turns out he's the Mexican version of America's purple-suited crimefighter The Phantom, inheriting the superhero mantle down through the ages. And did you know that Santo's wrestling costume has magical properties? These revelations occur in the shoddiest-looking cave set in film history - it's just badly painted plywood and a little stucco. (Yes, even the caves in EEGAH! and DEATH CURSE OF TARTU were better.) The rubber bats used here make the critters in SCARS OF DRACULA look like CGI.

Santo, the favorite Mexican action hero (besides Mario Almada) gets into a new and more dangerous quest. This time he should face a super evil villain who is not the diabolical ax as suggested but oh well, you hve to watch it to understand!.

Santo's origin and purpose is explained although not in a satisfying manner but it should please some die hard fans. Think about "Batman Begins" but in a less fashion way.

Santo looks badass and even when walking slowly while investigating inside the castle.

He has now more magic tricks. As if his wrestling techniques weren't enough!

Sure, you can say all you want about the cheese factor but this time it tried to be less obvious. I mean, the direction, cinematography, and f/x were intended to be stylish and that's always something good.

Not the best Santo effort but it's a great addition to his great legacy.