An important film that will only become even more important in time

Rating: 9/10 (21 March 2006)

"Remember, remember, the fifth of November; the gunpowder treason and plot. I know of no reason why gunpowder treason should ever be forgot."
And so stands a repeated quote from V for Vendetta, the latest from the Wachowski Brothers (or is it the Wachowski Siblings now?). While it is not the brilliant cinematic masterpiece that The Matrix has become since its initial release in 1999, the film still stands on its own as a fantastic piece of cinema, and one that will age well, and will become a much more important film in the future, than it can ever desire in 2006.
While undoubtedly controversial for its glorification and humanization of terrorism (done well in Steven Spielberg's recent Oscar-nominee Munich as well), Vendetta has a different agenda in mind. Having the film take place in futuristic, dystopic England was a great way to set the pace for the film, and an even better one as the film goes on. It's political message aspirations of a government much like Hitler's hits home hard, as the continuing war in Iraq and manipulative media reigns on. The recurring images and talks of a devastated United States, plagued by civil war, is only the beginning of the horrific imagery throughout the film that breaks down the barrier between the medium, and the real world.
The performances are all excellent, even with the sad under-use of John Hurt, and the faceless Hugo Weaving (who still puts forth an astonishing performance as V). Natalie Portman continues proving her worth as an actress, and Stephen Rea puts in another fine performance in a sadly underrated career. The supporting cast, even with their tiny roles, help to make the film even stronger.
If there is one thing the film has to come down to for its excellence, it's in the visuals. The way the film was shot just draws you right into the world, and only continues to keep you on edge as the striking imagery continues. The stunning use of blacks in every key sequence, and minor sequences is particularly noteworthy, and when the reds flow, they really do. The devastating, horrific images of disease, war, violence and death makes the film that much more important in the shape of things, and adds so much more depth and realism to the film than one could ever expect.
But the film is not perfect. The Wachowskis stumble on more than a few sections of dialog, and bring the intensity of the film down to near slapstick levels. The entire early monologue with V using almost every word in the English language that starts with the letter V is just downright silly, and makes the film lesser than it much well deserves to be. All of the action sequences are very well choreographed, you cannot help but notice some of the post-Matrix feel of some of the scenes. We understand it's the same creators, but the originality and bold style of the film does not need to suffer as a result.
As said, maybe not now, but in the future, this film will become an important entry into the halls of the so-called "great films". It's political message and uncompromising view of the future is bold, intense, and beautiful all at once. It is one that will be remembered.
9/10.