One of the best comic book movies

Rating: 8/10 (15 May 2014)

"V for Vendetta" is an adaptation of a graphic novel written by Alan Moore, whose "Watchmen" is considered one of the best (if not the very best) in that medium. The movie's literary pedigree supplied it with a solid basis for adaptation. I haven't read the source material myself but it would seem that the filmmakers did not fail to capture what made the original work special.
The story takes place in a near future Britain where tyranny has become the norm under the dictatorial government of the day. However, there is one mysterious individual who plots to overthrow the country's leaders and place control back in the hands of the people. He is aided in his quest by a young woman whose chance encounter with him has put her under close scrutiny by the police. The script by the Wachowskis uses this framework to craft an absorbing story that deftly mixes mystery and action against a thought-provoking backdrop.
The title character, V, was played by Hugo Weaving but we never see his face during the entire film, so he had to rely on his distinctive voice to convey the emotion behind the mask. Overall, he did a good job. Female lead Natalie Portman also contributed a solid performance, though I can't help but think that a British actress would have been better suited to the role. Speaking of British thespians, the supporting cast includes an enviable trio of them - John Hurt, Stephen Rea & Stephen Fry.
First time director James McTeigue apparently learned a lot from his work as first A.D. on the Matrix films. He shows a sure hand throughout, whether in frenetic action sequences or more intimate scenes. The cinematography of Adrian Biddle is also a key element in the attractive visuals and the musical selections are well chosen, too.
Ultimately, I feel that the movie shows attention to detail in all areas but I'm not completely sold on all aspects of the plot, particularly when it comes to Evey's incarceration. That being said, the movie is still much more satisfying (on multiple levels) than most comic book adaptations. It's definitely worth watching, whether you're a comic book fan or not.