One of the most important movies you will ever see

Rating: 10/10 (12 April 2006)

This movie adaptation of the graphic novel is an astounding feast for the eyes, thought food for your head and a emotive testament to the power of people in the face of adversity. The original 'comic' was set in a fictional version of neo-Nazi Thatcher era Britain, but taking out actual historical figures (apart from Guy Fawkes) gives the piece a much bigger net to cast. With enough fantastic fight scenes, and things blowing up to keep the action fans happy, V brings a multi-layered complexity, poetry and wit that one does not usually associate with this kind of movie. Even though it is fiercely British (the dismissive and passing references to the civil war in "the former United States" is a powerful backdrop) one of the things that gives this movie such a resounding impact is the parallels that can be drawn to current world events. If power corrupts, then absolute power corrupts absolutely. It looks at how governments control the media, mutate and mold the publics perceptions and use questionable methods to their own ends. The tag line of 'People should not be afraid of their Governments, Governments should be afraid of their people', is such a powerful and brave thing to say in this day and age when countries all over the world initiate sedition and treason laws. It's theatrical release was held back in the UK due to the London bombings and it's easy to understand why, but I'll spare you the spoilers. Their are some incredible performances, Natalie Portman as Evie gives perhaps the best performance of her career. John Hurt's malevolent High Chancellor is a seething cauldron of hatred. Stephen Fry as Gordon is magnificent and gives a glimpse of what I hope will be more dramatic roles for him. And then there is V, played by Hugo Weaving, who although you never see his face gives a remarkable portrayal full of humour, madness, righteous vengeance and tenderness. That mask will forever evoke strong feeling in me. V FOR VENDETTA is an absolute must see movie.