One of the greatest graphic novel based films to come out!!!

Rating: 10/10 (22 June 2008)

I remember all the hype about this film, and for me this is one of the few films that lived up to the hype. Lets face it this film deals with some very controversial subjects in a very troubled time period; War, Terrorism, Totalitarianism, Racism, Liberalism, and what ever other ism that's getting out of control. This film is a Action, Superhero, mystery, and comic book movie rolled up into one. Unlike so many other films put out today, this is a very intelligent & thoughtful action movie. I also noticed that it's very controversial, the vast majority love this film, but others seem to radically hate this movie with a passion.
V for Vendetta is based off a British graphic novel by Alan Moore that was published in the early 80's. Now there are differences between the Novel and the film but it's the same story. In a future Great Britain a masked vigilante known only as V, fights to bring down the Fascist Government (Norsefire) that rules Britain with an Iron Fist. I know the film makers altered the story from the novel, but only to become more relevant & meaningful in our times. For example; Norsefire came to power during a Nuclear War between Cold War enemies (likely the U.S. & U.S.S.R) which caused famine & economic collapse world wide, in the movie they came to power in the aftermath of a deadly Terrorist attack by Islamic Extremists. Just think; The Roman Republic turned into an Empire with the rise of Julius Caesar because of instability & corruption, Adolf Hitler & the Nazis came to power in Germany after the Reichstag was burnt down by Communists (as they claimed), The Taliban came to power in Afghanistan because the people were desperate for peace & security after years of Civil War, and the Terrorist attacks on America led George W. Bush's controversial conduct in fighting terrorism. When people are scared and insecure they will turn to anyone who can promise to change things, even turn a blind eye to their own governments crimes. The movie goes off the scenario that Americas War on Terror has gotten completely out of control, and seemingly has only embolden terrorism against America and it's Ally Great Britain. A terrifying irony is that this films release was delayed because of Terrorist attacks on London by Al Queda. So imagine if a party like Norsefire came to power because of people's fears of of the time, this film suddenly seemed more realistic. The portrayal of this Future Britain is smart, relevant, and terrifying. Drawing resemblance to Nazi Germany and that of the current political landscape. The Government targets Homosexuals, Political opponents, and non-British minorities for extermination or deportation. Many are sent to detention facilities which draw resemblance to Guantanimo Bay & Abu Ghraib. Now in the film V is portrayed more of a Freedom fighter then an crazed Anarchist in the novel, but few notice he does still remain true to his roots. His actions are meant to cause chaos & disillusionment, we even hear it said as his Revolution gains steam. The anarchy he stirs up is meant so that the government would show it's true colors, exposing their violent & ruthless tactics so that the people will not only question the Norsefire but turn against it. V is the most Intelligent & sophisticated hero ever then again, but like the novel it's questionable whether he is a heroic freedom fighter or a borderline psychotic. He has so much charisma & intelligence yet there are times we really have to ask ourselves "Is this dude crazy" Like the novel his past is a mystery, we only know he was a victim of the Governments atrocities, and like the novel his tactics are questioned by Natalie Portman's character. V is like many famous Revolutionaries of our time, but it's questioned whether their all motivated by a morale creed or their own personal desires.
The action sequences are bloody and amazing, mixing in elements of comics. This is more of a character driven film then action oriented, but it works for the better. We really feel for the characters and it's more about them then it is about action & special effects. Stephen Rea is very soulful & thoughtful, Natalie Portman isn't perfect but there are moments when her performance is actually quite memorable, John Hurt is absolutely chilling as the British Dictator Adam Sutler, but it's Hugo Weaving who gives the performance of his career as V. You never see his true face or learn his identity, its just how he talks & moves which is so brilliant. With the current political landscape of today this film is fun, entertaining, yet thought provoking, and chilling.V For Vendetta is a classic destined to be talked about for years to come.