Quite a ride!

Rating: 9/10 (19 March 2006)

Having followed the film's production for a year, I couldn't wait to see this film earlier today.
Overall it impressed me; based on a graphic novel and a comic released during the 80's, the film is set in London, after the third world war (which we, this time, lost). Britain is now a totalitarian society, and the United States ceases to be entirely. Controlling the British government is madman Chancellor Sutler (John Hurt), who gets concerned when a rebellious anti-hero known only as V (Hugo Weaving) blows up London landmark buildings. Dressed as Guy Fawkes, V plans to destroy the houses of parliament as part of his war against the oppressive regime. He teams up with unlikely ally Evey Hammond (Natalie Portman).
This film does not, as hinted in trailers, have a great deal of action; but where there is action, it's spectacular. Instead the film focuses on characters Evey and V, and their respective backgrounds and reasons for hating the government. V systematically goes about terminating all of the leaders of the government until he feels justice has been done. The V character is intriguing; well played by Hugo Weaving, even if his real face isn't seen at all! He's very knowledgeable in all subjects, and unmatched in combat; Weaving portrays this well along with some nice comic touches here and there, as you become more familiar with the character. Portman is at her best, too; managing to convey the horror of the nightmares through which her character has suffered. The supporting cast all give solid performances, with a nod, in particular to John Hurt who's character is never seen in the flesh; only on a monitor/television screen.
I really would recommend this one; I myself will have to go and see it again. It's not watered down by needless action or CGI; everything's done for a reason and it comes together extremely well.
Mark my words; this will develop a cult following over the coming years!