An Excellent Film!

Rating: 10/10 (28 April 2006)

I have seen this film twice already. The cast is excellent, and the story is compelling. I cannot recommend this film highly enough. It is filled with hope, despair, redemption and revenge. The main character, "V", is wonderfully portrayed by Hugo Weaving, and Natalie Portman redeems herself from her failings in the flawed, new "Star Wars" trilogy. All of the elements of a fascist society -- control of the media, of the military, of everyday life, and the use of fear of the "other" -- are presented in an effective manner. John Hurt as the High Chancellor is wonderful as the all-powerful, paranoid, and distant leader of a dangerous and murderous political faction. The cinematography is really excellent, except for one short scene near the beginning. The director and producers did an admiral job of decorating the sets with reminders of the fascist regime. You will find much in this film that reflects life in the United States today.