V For Very Good Viewing

Rating: 9/10 (27 March 2006)

This was my first trip to the cinema in 2006, and it was either this or "Pink Panther" - having heard that PP wasn't too good, I chose V For Vendetta, and I'm very glad I did.
The film is a bit on the long side, but it'll keep you interested through almost all of it. Highlights for me include V introducing himself to Evey Hammond with his "V monologue", the comedy sketch on the TV show hosted by Stephen Fry's character, and the short lesbian storyline in the middle of the film (I was caught off guard by it as the films I've seen don't feature much homosexuality, but I thought this was done well - quite sad and moving). I also liked the music used in the film's dramatic moments.
I was interested in seeing Natalie Portman in something other than "Star Wars", and she put in a decent performance as Evey. When you see Hugo Weaving as V, you won't be thinking "Elrond" or "Agent Smith", partly because you never see his face, which is either hidden by darkness or a Guy Fawkes mask - he has to use his voice and body language, and he does it effectively. I was also looking forward to seeing Stephen Fry in a movie, having only ever seen him in "Blackadder" and as the host of "QI", and he too did well as Evey's friend Gordon.
V For Vendetta certainly isn't for everyone (like sensitive viewers, as there are some gory bits), but if you like action, drama and a film that makes you think (about such things as politics, terrorism and what the future might bring), you'll enjoy this film!