V for Very Underrated

Rating: 9/10 (12 October 2006)

This film came and went in movie theatres in the U.S. barely registering a blip on the radar. Just when I wanted to see it it was out of the theatres. Thank God for Pay Per View! This was a true 21st Century Noir masterpiece. I loved the "Matrix" but freed my mind when it came to "V for Vendetta." Unfortunately, I'm sure it put off many "Matrix" fans because it was extremely different stylistically--far more subtle, verbally nuanced and in some ways old-fashioned. Our hero lives in something akin to the Bat Cave and wears the mask of a 17th century revolutionary (complete with black cloak). But the story is eternal and one need not be a genius to see where it fits into today's society replete with corrupt government officials and an apathetic and (seemingly) powerless populace.
True to its classical sensibility there is a love story between the hero and the pygmalionned heroine (who begins timid and weak and ends up discovering her hidden strengths). But also miles away from Hollywood, a lasting connection between the politically motivated lovers is doomed. The best part about it is that ("Matrix") actor Hugo Weaving performs with real thespian finesse even through a mask (which is cleverly--as far as cinematic devices go--never taken off, maintaining the mystery of the larger-than-life recalcitrant figurehead).
With an Orwellian tone and its similar penchant for depicting a future state that mixes antiquity, dystopian modernity and present-day disenchantment, "V for Vendetta" is destined to be positively reevaluated by the masses or at the very least to become a huge cult classic. "People should not be afraid of their governments. Governments should be afraid of their people." Vive la resistance!