Cast:

Natalie Portman: Evey
Hugo Weaving: V
Stephen Rea: Finch
Stephen Fry: Deitrich
John Hurt: Adam Sutler
Tim Pigott-Smith: Creedy
Rupert Graves: Dominic
Roger Allam: Lewis Prothero

“V for Vendetta” blends a solid script, stylish cinematography and beautiful locations to create a thought-provoking and highly entertaining film.

After V’s (Hugo Weaving) introductory speech filled with alliteration – in the key of ‘V’, it’s clear the, once-revered, Wachowski Brothers have written a slick and intelligent film reminding viewers why they fell in love with “The Matrix”.

“V for Vendetta” is so politically infused, it acts a metaphor beckoning comparisons to the status quo of American society. While “V for Vendetta” won’t necessarily be on the President’s must-watch list it helps viewers to ask questions of America and our government at a time when his approval ratings are at an all-time low.

The Wachowski Brothers adapted Alan Moore’s graphic novel set in a futuristic London where Parliament uses the fear of terrorism against its own people to keep them in a constant state of fear.

V rescues Evey (Natalie Portman) from a group of rapists working for Parliament and enforcing the city’s strict curfew laws. The scenes following Evey’s rescue show V sparking a revolution within the city and promising, in a citywide television broadcast, to blow up Parliament in one year.

The remainder of the film follows V as he kills public officials and exposes the government for the brainwashing, propaganda spreading and corrupting power it is. Throughout, Evey helps V on his mission while learning about his origins and her true nature.

Beyond cinematography, the choices of locations within London help “V for Vendetta” stand out. Sometimes the scenery is so gorgeous and enchanting it almost acts as a character itself.

“V for Vendetta” touches the heart with its story of love and civic virtue almost unheard of presently. Weaving and Portman’s acting and dialogue carry the film, as the viewer will remain engaged throughout its two-hour span. Overall, four of four stars.

© Zack Sampsel 2006