V for Vendetta

"People should not be afraid of their Governments. Governments should be afraid of their people."

"V"

Based on cult comic writer, Alan Moore's (also of League of Extraordinary Gentlemen and From Hell), graphic novel of the same name, V for Vendetta is a dark, elaborate and powerful thriller from first time director James McTeigue.

Working from a script from Matrix directors, The Wachowski Brothers, the plot sees a mysterious Guy Fawkes-masked avenger, known only as V wage a one man assault on the political apparatus of a Totalitarian United Kingdom. With knowing winks to the relavance of such a story in todays society, V for Vendetta is a superb piece of film making; in actual fact far better than anything the Wachowskis have ever done.

As the masked V, Hugo Weaving is quite outstanding. With his face covered behind an expressionless mask, he gives a rich and powerful performance. His physicality and fantastic vocal duties making V an ambiguous yet engaging anti hero. Natalie Portman is also superb as the heroine, Evey Hammond, drawn into V's plans and changing her own life in the process. In fact it is their relationship that gives the movie emotional depth, and lifts it beyond the boundaries of a normal thriller.

Even the supporting cast is excellent. Stephen Rea, John Hurt, Tim Piggot Smith and John Hurt all give memorable performances.

Yet for a graphic novel about a masked anti hero, the action in V is not as much as you'd expect. Instead a strong story and nuanced characterisation takes centre stage with McTiegue only using action when needed. And then it only strengthens the story.

A more meaningful, potent and important movie you won't see all year.

9 out of 10