film: review

> V FOR VENDETTA (2005)
The first must watch movie of 2006

By John C. Lyons
Film Critic

Directed by: James McTeigue

Written by: Andy and Larry Wachowski (screenplay)

Starring: Natalie Portman and Hugo Weaving

Genre: Action / Drama / Sci-Fi / Thriller

Our Rating: 10/10

“Remember, remember the 5th of November.” The weekend of November 5th 2005 was when V for Vendetta was originally supposed to be released. Also known as “Guy Fawkes Day” (when he tried to blow up Parliament). But whether or not it was delayed because of political reasons or special effects reasons doesn’t much matter, the extra time only helped make this movie sheer perfection in this reviewer’s opinion. The first must watch of 2006 and a great start for director McTeigue, who apparently has learned a few things from the Wachowski brothers (Matrix trilogy).

The performances make the film, as it is not an effects-heavy vehicle that some may be expecting. Portman, does a remarkable job, turning in one of her best performances of her career right alongside Léon, Closer, and Garden State. Weaving, for being masked the entirety of the film is the glue that holds it all together, his powerful voice a perfect fit for the title character. The role was apparently re-cast late in the game— a good move. I can’t imagine anyone else’s voice here holding the same effect.

The timing of the movie and the storyline are no coincidence, V for Vendetta hits close to home on several occasions with the state of the world today, and while purists of its source material will complain that Natalie isn’t British or blonde, and that story elements were altered, I think the film’s points hit with a lot more force because of these changes. An update here just makes more sense. If you haven’t yet, and you aren’t the kind to pass judgments on a movie featuring a terrorist as its main character, you must see this movie. Bravo all around!

I saw this film at Cinemark’s Tinseltown 17 Theatres on Peach Street in Erie, PA.

related links:
V for Vendetta - official site

MPAA rating: R
for strong violence and some language

length: 132 minutes