When I first learned Hollywood was planning to defile yet another of Alan Moore’s brilliant graphics novels, I was certain that comic book films would hit an all-time low. Then I discovered that the screenwriters responsible were the same duo who brought us 7 hours of Keanu Reeves as a Jiu-Jitsu wielding Jesus figure. My hopes for the Wachowski brothers’ take on Moore’s classic "V for Vendetta" were miniscule at best. But in all fairness this is a movie review and not a "how much this sucked compared to the original work" review.
However, I was engrossed from the first flash of the valiant and vengeful V’s visage.
Hugo Weaving turns in an astounding and faceless performance as V, the brilliant philanthropist/ killing machine bent on taking down the leaders of a future totalitarian Britain, which exists in a reality in which Germany won World War II. In a country ruled through religious zealotry, uncompromising violence and all-powerful media, the only answer is the art of disguise, pyrotechnics, sabotage and more knives than the Swiss Army.
In the midst of his pernicious pursuits V befriends Evey, played solidly by Natalie Portman. Liberated from the stifling grip of George Lucas, she’s once again free to portray the kind of robust characters that gained her notoriety as early as age 12 "The Professional". Her faults in this film lie solely in scenes that were merely trademark Wachowski screenwriting.
Stephen Rea "The Crying Game" is perfect as policeman Finch, the man responsible for bringing "terrorists" to justice. But Rea’s role is not that simple; he often finds himself understanding and even sympathizing with V.
The film moves along at a comfortable pace, transitioning well from tense action sequences to subtle character development.
The cinematography, editing and sound are all done well. The score is only mediocre and the other down points of the film, though rare, spoon-feed exposition to the audience.
However, the film was enjoyable overall. Its messages about politics, religion and government and how easily the latter can turn on the people it serves seem to ring even more true today then during the original comic’s creation in 1988. So if you’re looking for something smarter than "The Shaggy Dog," I highly recommend "V for Vendetta." Then go to your local comic book store, pick up the graphic novel for $15 and have it completely ruined for you.
