"V For Vendetta" Review

The Wachowski brothers are back at it after their Matrix trilogy. Please don't let the loving or hating of "The Matrix" determine if you want to see this film or not. This film is far different from any of the Matrix flicks.

It stars a man in a theatrical white mask, known as V. It takes place in the not too distant future in London, England, where the form of government has transformed from democratic to totalitarian. Because of this alteration, an 11:00 curfew has been set for the city and if anyone is seen walking about after curfew, they are subject to arrest.

Natalie Portman chances it early on, as she walks out slightly after the curfew hour. Two old men grab hold of her and look eager to please themselves at her expense, when V arrives, clobbers the two men, and saves Portman's life.

After that point, Portman is stuck to the life of V. She's fearful and angry with V and his actions, yet, is entranced and grateful, at the same time.

Much is not known at the outset of V or Evy (Portman), their backgrounds, or intentions. At first glance, V seems like a hero to Portman, but not long after, is seen as a terrorist. Throughout the story, one may be ambivalent on their feelings toward V. While he may seem like an evil terrorist to some, he may seem like a heroic revolutionary to others.

This is when the film gets to be real interesting. It's not a political sermon, but draws many political parallels with what is currently transpiring in the world of politics and presents a hypothetical scenario of what could be seen in the future.

Many questions have to be asked after viewing this film. Our freedoms worth sacrificing for a feeling of security? Has the element of fear truly silenced the majority of people into not questioning government or decisions made by the authorities? Is the media truly honest in the information they spread to the public? What is the true definition of terrorism? Do we see enough of V in ourselves where we'd feel the motivation to revolt if a similar predicament arose in our lifetimes?

This film is not for everyone, especially those who are on the far right side of the fence politically. I would not recommend this film to the Bill O'Reilly's and Rush Limbaugh's of the world. But, for anyone who is not afraid to question authority, regardless of their political affiliation, then I would definitely recommend this film to you.

It can be a bit too talky at times, but overall, the dialogue is solid. There are enough bits and pieces missing from the story to hold our curiosity and interest throughout the film, before those little puzzle pieces become known one by one. The musical score, the direction, the acting, the story, and the plot are all pretty solid. There aren't many, if any weaknesses in this film. It's a bit too chatty at times, but doesn't lose its quick intense pace. While I wouldn't rank it as high as the first "Matrix" film. It definitely ranks higher than the lasts two in the trilogy. It's a very solid effort after the disappointing "Matrix Revolutions" with plenty of material to excite, entertain, and provoke thought.

Overall Grade: 8.0