Stylistically vibrant, but aesthetically questionable

Rating: 4/10 (19 March 2006)

V for Vendetta is a politically charged film where my own personal political views have to be taken into account when reviewing this film. The film is an obvious allegory to the Bush Administration and is unapologetic about it. Which is fine: this form of artistic expression has to happen in a free society. But the film doesn't handle its allegory with enough subtlety and implicitly that most great satires do. At times, "V for Vendetta" feels downright preachy. It even portrays ideas that the filmmakers probably didn't intend to.
SPOILER ALERT: The ending, where everyone approaches the exploding parliament wearing the same mask, reminds me of a Communist revolution. Everyone is dressed and looks the same, without a hint of individuality. It was an ending that's hard to feel victorious about since my personal views equate Communism with Fascism.
Other than that, I have to admit that the film is an achievement in visual style. There are some great camera work and memorable images. The performances are all first rate, despite Portman's slip ups with her British accent. Weaving does a great job even with the hindrance of the mask. I see a bright future with the director, as long as he chooses better scripts.