Guy Fawkes would be proud.

Rating: 10/10 (15 April 2006)

V for Vendetta. Brilliant, powerful, and encompassing. This film will open your mind's eye and give you a glimpse into a scenario that could possibly materialize in the not to distant future. It is thought provoking and brilliantly scripted.
"V" (Hugo Weaving) is the catalyst for the great ideals that seem to overcome the storyline of this movie. This film is very different in a good way, it is neither the story nor the characters that make this film great, it is the ideals that they are portraying. Some could say freedom many would say rebellion. Either way you look at it makes the viewer reflect onto their own lives and the government that is in power now, and question it.
The film utilizes a futuristic environment to show how the government has evolved over time to become a force that is accepted but not exactly wanted. The citizens of Britain are in many ways forced to accept the rule of the "Chancellor", played by John Hurt. With strict rules and regulations, the people are oppressed by their government thus making the actions of "V" and "Evey" (Natalie Portman) tremendously rebellious and to the mundane masses, fascinating.
History plays a major role in this film. "Remember, Remember, the 5th of November" is a line used to intensify the actions of "V" by incorporating an event in the past that also held significance as a catalyst for change. It makes the viewer realize that situations not unlike the one in "V for Vendetta" have occurred throughout time and that they will continue to occur. In many ways "V" commits acts of terrorism, but the twist to this film is that they are seen in a light of justice. Vengeance, defiance and revolution are all ideas that are accepted as good and taken on board as acts of liberty and are of utmost necessity for the freedom from oppression in this case.
"V for Vendetta" is a terrific film and is in my books one to remember. It can be seen from many different angles but the key is to keep an open mind. It is not the storyline that makes this movie; it is the hidden messages and thought provoking ideals. For those of us who think outside the square this is a film to be seen, for others I don't think would appreciate the intelligence nor vigor of this production. It makes the beauty of language and the ideas and actions of martyrs throughout history, reflected on in a different light. To sum up, this film goes against moral values and the "hero" is a stark contrast to what a hero "should be". It is an eye opener for sure. A film to be witnessed rather than seen. A brilliant production, go see it!