Very relevant to our times

Rating: 8/10 (23 August 2006)

V for Vendetta explores many themes that struck a chord with me, particularly in today's political climate. The idea of fear being used as a smokescreen in order to deprive people of their civil liberties rang true- as did the Islamophobia, Homophobia and general disdain for any kind of human diversity.
It takes a while for the film to grow on you, but soon you will find yourself caring in the tale of Evie, a woman who is very much awakening to the ugliness around her, and is empowered enough to take action. There are some especially moving scenes- including Evie's torture and her discovery of the dead woman's letter. You will find yourself thinking of the strength of human spirit, and you will find yourself somewhat inspired.
The marketing has strongly associated the film with screenwriter the Warschowski Brothers. This could be potentially damaging because it really isn't an action film- and the fight sequences that are int his film don;t necessarily have the same visual flair as found in the Matrix movies. Instead we have a film that is far more broody and thoughtful, it's about characters growing, and pasts and agendas being revealed. In contrast the matrix's philosophical musings, particularly towards the end of the trilogy, often felt like window dressing, and sadly nonsensical and self important.
So watch this film with an open mind, and expect something different. You will be rewarded for it.