Directed by James McTeigue
Screenplay by Andy and Larry Wachowski
Starring Natalie Portman, Hugo Weaving, Steven Rea, John Hurt
Distributed by Warner Bros.
In my opinion, there are four types of movies. The first are mindless bits of drabble that are quickly forgotten and make little in a way of profit. The second type are the movies that are enjoyable and serve as popcorn flicks. The third kind are the movies that define a time period and are exalted as "classics." The fourth and final kind are the movies that hold a timeless theme and are merely updated with new actors and effects.
V For Vendetta falls into the fourth category.
An adaptation of Alan Moore and David Lloyd's epic maxiseries that was published in 1982-1985, the movie has already gained a large amout of controversy for Moore's lack of support because of "plot holes" and an "unfair adaptation." While I myself have only read about half of the graphic novel, there are notable differences. However, the movie stays true to the book on many levels. Many purists will still probably fret and support Moore on the matter, but for the most part, this is the same story Moore and Lloyd envisioned over twenty years ago.
Many elements have been added to update it to the times and actually make it timeless. The Cold War aspect of the background has been removed, and yet a wonderful new idea has replaced it. The masses have said that the symbol of the evil government is a failed attempt at a Nazi Swastika. Actually, it is the Cross of Lorraine, an old symbol found in European history. Many people will see this movie as an attempt to insult the Bush Administration, yet those who do should be slapped thoroughly. This story was crafted long before Bush's time and is a reflection on human nature rather then contemporary politics.
Visually, this movie is stunning. The camera work is wonderful, and the special effects are unbelievable. V's mask is creepy and charming at different times and the lighting really helps accentuate this disparity. A word must be said about the audio. There is an excellent use of Tchaikovsky's 1812 Overture that will probably bring memories of Looney Toons to mind. The sound effects and score are beyond excellent and will truly emerse you in the movie. However, ignore the commercials. Through advertising, the movie has been hyped as a Matrix-like action movie. In truth, there is only around three fight scenes, and they only total up to around ten minutes of the film. This is a political and thought provoking movie that is never bogged done by over the top effects or explosions.
The person in charge of casting should get a nice bonus immediately. Replacing James Purefoy early in production, Hugo Weaving plays the title character. No, scratch that. Weaving is V. The man made famous by playing the uber-serious Agent Smith and Elrond in The Matrix and The Lord of the Rings respectively is now stuck in a mask. Boy does he make it work. Through body language and dialogue, Weaving escapes the handicap and comes to life as both a creepy and serious terrorist and as an amusing cavalier similar in parts to The Count of Monte Cristo's Edmond Dantes, which is referenced heavily in the movie. Natalie Portman, who has been criticized for her work in the Star Wars prequels, proves her worth as an actress. Playing the main character Evey Hammond, she serves as both the Devil's Advocate and (at first) unwilling companion to V. Her acting is so strong that as her charactor changes, you actually believe it. Evey's ending in the movie will surely sum up what this movie is about and represent the people's choice.
The supporting cast is also awesome. John Hurt plays High Chancellor Sutler, the man behind the government and the de facto leader of Britian. Hurt wonderfully portrays the Big Brother-like Sutler, imbueing him with a Hitler-like oratory skill and a "rule by fear" mantra that gives him an ironic ending. My favorite cast member would have to be Stephen Rea's Eric Finch. The head of the investigation into V, Finch serves as the idealogical foil to V, doing his best to help the people without the use of violence. As the anarchist acts continue, Finch takes on an almost Apocalypse Now-like obsession with capturing V. As with all the characters in the film, his ending is a far twist from the character. Following Finch around is Rupert Graves' Dominic, Finch's second-in-command. Less intuitive then his boss, Dominic does his best to catch V and aid Finch's investigation in the link between the victims.
I have waited for this movie since June of 2005. I can remember when I first saw the teaser poster for the movie and had my first fanboy moment. I waited until November and then it was pushed back. All those more months I waited in worry that it may not live up to my hype. I have never been so relieved in my life. The wait was worth it, and it exceeded any expectation I had.
This film raises many questions on the nature of terrorism, anarchy, and the surrendering of civil liberties for the sake of safety. A thoughtful human being would sit and ponder the views expressed in the movie for hours. A regular movie goer will simply enjoy it for the effects and acting. I may have high hopes, but I am hoping for a few Oscars for this movie. The acting, direction, and score all exceed expectations, and you will be left a changed person. So please, see it, reflect on it, and most of all, enjoy it.
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