Not orthodox to the graphic novel, but surprisingly bold nonetheless

Rating: 8/10 (16 March 2006)

First of all, I have to say how excited I was that V for Vendetta came out on time here in the Kong. Usually, we get movies two months to one year later than the rest of the world. So not only did I get to see it on time, but thanks to time zones and the international date line, I actually got see it *before* most of the rest of the world.
If you're a purist to the graphic novel, like me, you will inevitably be disappointed by some changes to the script. But overall, considering some of the horrible scenarios flashing through my mind before seeing the movie, I was generally relieved to see that the spirit of Alan Moore's story was left intact. As you may have read, the story has been updated from Thatcher's cold war to be more relevant to Bush's war on terror. The character of Evey has been changed to be far less naive and childish; Natalie Portman's portrayal was probably closer to something modern day people can relate to, especially now that people are encouraged to turn in their neighbors if they are considered suspicious.
Some scenes, such as V's confrontation with Dr. Deliah, and Evey's imprisonment (including the letter written on toilet paper), are faithful and extremely powerful. But many other events are taken out of their original chronology and altered, and this may bother you if you are really faithful to the graphic novel.
I'm kind of crap at this right now, especially after a few celebratory beers, so I'll end with the two reassurances most important to me (very slight spoilers, but not if you've read the graphic novel): Parliament DOES get blown up (but again, chronology is altered), and V's mask is NOT removed to reveal his face in the movie. In worrying about the "hollywoodization" of V for Vendetta (not to mention big-name Hugo Weaving as V), these were the foremost concerns in my mind, but having braced myself for the wost, I am pleasantly surprised.
For a mainstream film, this is pretty edgy. If you love the graphic novel, you may be kind of disappointed-- but take heart, considering the other Alan Moore adaptations to hit the big screen, this is a huge improvement. If you haven't read the graphic novel, I sincerely hope that the movie will pique your interest and that you pick up a copy.