Pretty Awesome

Rating: 8/10 (29 March 2006)

This film is powerful; mostly because of how different it is from every other blockbuster. Set in a possible future where America is in ruins and England is ruled by a totalitarian dictatorship - the plot focuses on a mysterious rebel named V played by Hugo Weaving {Agent Smith of the Matrix}. He lives in London, wears a mask, models himself on Guy Fawkes and as such, is essentially a terrorist. It is his aim to encourage the populace to rise up against an oppressive regime, which until now, has not been successfully opposed.
The story revolves around V and a girl he meets named Evey, played by Natalie Portman. Their first chance encounter allows V to introduce himself near the beginning of the film; where Hugo's background as a Shakespearean actor is put to good use in a long and slightly ridiculous monologue that is more than vaguely reminiscent of 'the architect's' over-wordy contributions to the matrix trilogy. However, this is the only point at which I felt the erudite nature of V's character was slightly overstressed.
The well choreographed action sequences keep the pace of the film high as is only to be expected with the direction of the Wachowski brothers. The comic book background must be remembered when it comes to realism at certain points; but the overall premise is made quite believable with stories within the story explaining and answering the audience's questions as the film progresses.
Overall, V for Vendetta is not just entertaining, but also highly thought provoking. Like a modern day '1984', it paints a fascinating picture of a future dystopia without forgetting to develop its characters, all while keeping the audience interested throughout. Don't just go and see this film if you fancy an action-packed no-brainer; you might find the plot a little too intricate and original for your liking...