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Reviews of V for Vendetta
"In other news, Film destroys source; thrives!"
Posted : 1 month, 3 weeks ago on 20 October 2009 06:26
(A review of V for Vendetta)It's amazing how easy it is to butcher everything fans hold dear in one of the greatest graphic novels of all time into a simplistic, moronic mess and cavalcade of action scenes and philosophical thoughts that appear to be taken from the things with old proverbs you put under your beer in a local bar. The characters of V and Evey have been stripped of their ideals and replaced with cardboard charicatures that revel in the light of righteousness, and the dim line between good and evil from the comic has been taken away and replaced with a huge red beam to make sure to the viewer who is evil and who is not with the most over the top performances by the bad guys and subtle soothness of all the good guys. V For Vendetta is more reminiscent of a product someone would make if they had just been through film school 101 rather than it's origin, a superbly deep and layered graphic novel about modern society and it's many flaws. The film works barely as an independent picture instead of an adaptation, but it still somewhat fails as it really is a pretty flauently flat film thematically, while still passing itself off as something great and deep. It tries more than it should with this material.
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V for Very Good
Posted : 3 months ago on 12 September 2009 03:08
(A review of V for Vendetta)A dystopian british nation must be saved by the tyrannical totalitarian government under which it has become subjected to since a recent nuclear war that has left much of the Earth crippled. And who will act as the people's modern/futuristic Robin Hood, to inspire hope within the masses of a spiritually tattered land of The United kingdom? In this case, it will be the mask vigilante known as "V". And so confident is this anarchist avenger of the masses, that he requires naught but swords to combat gunplay, a name no longer than that of a single letter, and a mask based not on of fear, but one based instead on a visage of a happy but rebellious historical figure.
Alan Moore's storytelling is just so rich in detail, atmosphere & concepts, that it can almost seem impossible to capture even just a sliver of it's essence onto a film adaptation. Therefor, even though this movie quite obviously cannot compare to the comicbook series, just the fact that it was able to retain anything at all from Mr. Moore's work to any kind of degree of consistency to the story
(which, IMO, is the only movie to do so far) is enough to mark it as a success for me.
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V for Victory..V for Vengeance..V for Virtuous..
Posted : 1 year, 1 month ago on 4 November 2008 06:11
(A review of V for Vendetta)''I told you, only truth. For 20 years, I sought only this day. Nothing else existed... until I saw you. Then everything changed. I fell in love with you Evey. And to think I no longer believed I could.''
A shadowy freedom fighter known only as "V" uses terrorist tactics to fight against his totalitarian society. Upon rescuing a girl from the secret police, he also finds his best chance at having an ally and maybe a companion.
Natalie Portman: Evey
Hugo Weaving: V
''The only verdict is vengeance, a vendetta, held as a votive not in vain.''
Set in a fascist controlled Britain, V is inspired by the graphic novel by Alan Moore. Resulting in this superb grand masterpiece.
Scarily enough it also has parallels with what is actually happening now, and how this country really is on the same spiraling road into a hell of its own making. Notice the Gordon Brown look alike, the dictator Police-State, the controlling system, propaganda laden News and Terrorists being blamed for the own Governments evil doings. IT's thought provoking aspects like these that make V a very interesting piece indeed. This paralleled state of existence not far from our blurry own.
The plot of V for Vendetta is surprisingly complex and expertly stitched together, and I don't want to divulge any juicy details.
Suffice it to say that a masked anarchist (Hugo Weaving) must save a young woman (Natalie Portman) during his attempt to expose a corrupt flawed government.
Weaving is perfectly cast, using his formidable physicality and imposing voice to give gravitas to the insanity of the character.
Hugo weaving although unseen behind the mask shows depth in his masked vigilante V, he portrays his emotion and passion.
Portman has gone from child to teen star and is finally emerging as a talented, adult actress following her Oscar-nominated turn in Closer, which I have yet to see. Here, she gives her best performance to date as the orphaned, Evey.
John Hurt is characteristically impressive as the enigmatic evil government leader, who's more of a dictator than a PM. Stephen Rea gives a wonderful supporting turn as the police inspector charged with finding V - before it's too late. Making us see a flip side and narration to proceedings.
''Strength through unity. Unity through faith.''
The Wachowski Brothers former colleague, James McTiegue, takes on the directing tasks here and steers an enormously impressive first feature, using every means available, in a manner reminiscent of his mentors breakout hit The Matrix. Unlike Matrix, McTiegue allows the story to be more of a focus, and as a result the film is a tense yet emotional storm, with outbursts of spectacularly filmed and choreographed action. Showing more maturity and restraint than the Wachowskis ever did, McTiegue doesn't show off, and his trickery isn't self conscious. When slow-motion overtakes a late action sequence, it seems extremely natural yet believable. The late cinematographer Adrian Biddle (V is dedicated to his memory) does an outstanding job, Oscar-nominated Dario Marianelli's score is a fantastic accompaniment to the piece, setting your emotions ablaze like V, and the visual effects are astonishing, terrifying, and deeply moving, especially in the climatic moments.
With solid acting, great action, and fantastic technical wizardry, it sounds just like another Matrix clone. But the biggest difference in V is that it is a story of real ideas - not a fantastic, science fiction creation, but a genuine examination of the human condition. The power of fear takes center stage here, the fear of war, of disease, of famine. Fear is a basic human nature, and has been exploited as a weapon, a method of control, for centuries. And for those who would use it against the innocent, a masked avenger waits in the shadows to deal justice and vengeance.
There was also a strange debate over the quality of adaptation the Wachowski Brothers offered to Alan Moore's original graphic novel. Moore has publicly separated himself from the film, quoting in the New York Times at the time, that ''the screenplay's rubbish''. Well, before we all walk away from the project, remember primly that Alan Moore will be the first to tell you himself that he is a selfish, pretentious prick. He knows it, we know it, enough said. Moving on... The screenplay's fine which you may have determained from what I have said already. In fact, it's again a masterpiece, and I cannot stress this fact enough. What the Wachowski Brothers have done is find the right balance between the theatrics of the graphic novel, and the solemnity to the richly Victorian narrative. They form a dynamic that plays to both sides, allowing for a story that sparks both political debate and giddy entertainment. We'll first shake our heads at the sentimental, soft-focus flashbacks and intriguing sub-plot for nuclear human experimentation but when mulled over, we realize it's just the comic book mentality showing its true colours. After all, V wouldn't start all his sentences with v-words had this film shunned its comic roots.
''A building is a symbol, as is the act of destroying it. Symbols are given power by people. A symbol, in and of itself is powerless, but with enough people behind it, blowing up a building can change the world.''
Revolutionary, thought provoking, V for Vendetta isn't just a comic book/graphic Novel adaptation but a political stab at the world we live in. Yet again a powerful idea can prove the most moving aspect!
Music is atmospheric and the scene with Natalie in the rain with arms held up in a pose of rebirth is phenomenal. Makes me shudder with the combined piece of music, very emotional.
Ideas are bulletproof, So says V, I say this film is bulletproof. Thought id add to this review with a proper analysis concluding its greatness and my love for it.
Remember remember the 5th of November! Classic film through and through and definitely a favourite film.
V for Vendetta is a vividly vivacious and voluptuous volley of very violent proceedings.
One man's variable quest for Vengeance.
''People should not be afraid of their governments. Governments should be afraid of their people.''
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An interesting experience that everyone should see
Posted : 1 year, 1 month ago on 19 October 2008 06:52
(A review of V for Vendetta)First off, I recommend this to ANYONE, this movie should be watched by nearly anyone whether they like it or not.
I for one enjoyed this movie, as V had an excellent diction that made him seen intellectual and powerful, I enjoyed most of the fight scenes, and the explosions were interesting to watch, the general message to the public that this movie gives is interesting, the people shouldn't fear the government, the government should fear the people, it's true, but it's not usually touched on, at least, not in this way.
Although interesting, the plot is not as good as it could have been, thus it did not get a perfect score, various other things I just didn't like also lowered the score, but it is still a good movie in my opinion and most people should try and see it once in their life time...
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V for Verbose?
Posted : 1 year, 3 months ago on 15 September 2008 09:42
(A review of V for Vendetta)I shall begin by saying that I was never particularly interested in 'V', not in the graphic novel, not in the movie, and mostly not in the Wachowski brothers. Their cataclysmic sequels to The Matrix had put me off of their work for what I felt was life. A friend leant me the film and when I finally sat down to watch it, I did so with trepidation and at a push, nothing enticed me into the storyline and nothing appealed to me about a kook in a Guido Fawkes mask. Maybe it was my very very low expectations that gave me a surprise.
The initial scripting is well paced, well written, and well directed. The dialogue rattles along without so much as a pause for breath and runs rich with dry humour and tongue in cheek pomp that imbues the characters with a sense of false regality. The rhythm and the dexterity of the script is done justice by a fantastic voice over from Hugo Weaving and the beginning of the Movie holds a subtle appeal you cannot tear yourself away from.
Saturated with reds & blacks, choreographed fight scenes, and Natalie Portman's breaking accent; The whole film exudes a sense of surrealism and in my own opinion allows the viewer to become detached from the proceedings, this is a shame because for the most part the film could be seen to be as touching as it is tragic.
One of my favourite pieces of casting is the inclusion of Stephen 'Legendary' Fry who is fantastic, as expected, and who somehow manages to reconnect the viewer with the emotion hidden within the story. The scene I am referring to is where he makes it clear to Portman that he is in the closet because of the government; a scene that is clearly drawing from his own life experience which only Fry could carry off without an agenda or motive.
After this scene, I feel the film loses it's way a little bit and the Wachowski's finally lose their long running battle with 'Sonorous Cuntus' and get ravelled up in their own ego's. That's not to say it ruins the film because enough ground work has been laid by Weaving, Fry and (strangely) Portman to convey a very good visual and aural display of a forgotten DC hero. After this the film finds it's feet again and continues to deliver some smatterings of genius scripting and a few action sequences to keep it ticking over.
The political message that inevitably accompanies a pretentious Wachowski Bro. production rears its ugly head again, but luckily it is not sharp enough to penetrate your enjoyment. Overall this makes for a decent film, not ground breaking, and not as revolutionary as the plot suggests, but definitely watchable. Now all we can hope is that Andy and Larry will be able to stop tossing each other off for long enough to start writing another classic like The original Matrix.
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My Favorite!
Posted : 1 year, 5 months ago on 30 June 2008 01:18
(A review of V for Vendetta)In 2005, Silver Pictures and Warner Bros. (The Matrix trilogy) made a movie called V for Vendetta, based off of the comic books of the same name. It cost $54 million dollars to make, but made $131,411,035 worldwide by July of 2006 and is #144 on the IMDb top 250.
The basic plot of the movie follows a girl named Evey as her path intersects with the title character. He is essentially a terrorist, but the movie makes you feel sympathetic toward him, since his goal is to start a revolution to overthrow the extremely oppressive government, and at the same time, kill the people responsible for sending him to a camp to be tested on, as a subject intended to die for scientific knowledge. However, he blew up the camp and left, taking the number on the door, V, as his identity. This is the barest level of the plot, but the plot itself is extremely deep, twisting until the very end.However you feel about the Wachowski Brothers after the Matrix trilogy, this movie fully redeems their scriptwriting talents in my eyes.
Natalie Portman plays the role of Evey. While I was unimpressed with her in the Star Wars prequels, she shines here, accurately portraying her character's transition from scared, innocent little girl to freedom fighter heading a revolution that will change everything. Hugo Weaving plays the title role, and while he didn't get to show much emotion in The Matrix, he plays this role with gusto, taking more than a few pages from the Shakespearian acting school. While this is usually a sign of a ham actor, here it fits perfectly with the lines coming from V's mouth, causing both the lines and the actor's motions to flow and complement each other perfectly. Stephen Rea plays Finch, a detective trying to figure out the motive behind V's actions. He plays the role fittingly, portraying not just a man with a job, but an obsession. He chases down every lead, just trying to unwrap the mystery, even if it is not likely to lead anywhere. I could keep going on about the actors, but I'll just wrap it up by saying that no one is a bad actor here.
As I mentioned earlier, the script is incredible. The lines are almost written for the actors. In particular, V's lines are memorable and stunningly deep, for the writers of The Matrix. One example of such a line, followed by an even better exchange, is uttered at the beginning of the movie. Upon being asked by Evey who he is, V replies "Who? Who is but a function of what, and what I am is a man in a mask." She responds, "Well I can see that," and his response to that statement? "Of course you can. I'm not questioning your powers of observation. I'm merely remarking upon the paradox of asking a masked man his identity." With these lines, V sets himself up as a deep, intelligent individual, who isn't afraid of engaging in a lively repartee. In many scripts, these lines would be called hokey or stilted. But in this movie, the lines are very poetic, almost beautiful, and that is something that is not seen near often enough in modern movies.
The movie was directed by James McTeigue, as his debut role as the main director, though he had worked on many previous films as assistant director. Honestly, until I looked him up on IMDb, I had no idea that this was his premiere film. He has a gift for knowing when to cut, when to pan, and when to show everything for maximum effect. As a film, it is above average in the directing apartment, beating out several of the dull character dramas easily, but still not quite up to legendary status like Spielberg. But as a debut film, it is absolutely stunning. If this is what he can do in his first movie behind the helm, I cannot wait for his next movies to be released.
The music in the movie is well played, with a couple of uses of Tchaikovsky's 1812 Overture, the second time very emotionally, along with several other pieces by such varied artists as Black Label Society and The Rolling Stones. Every time a new piece of music is played, it fits the mood of the scene very well, never being out of place, and always doing its part to add emotional impact to every scene, whether it be laughter (not very common, but there is a scene with Yakety Sax playing) or tears (very, very common).
This movie is one of the best movies to come out of the year 2005, and is one of the most moving movies based on a comic book. The scriptwriters redeemed themselves, Natalie Portman proved she could act (shocking, I know) and the director proved that he is ready to be the grande fromage on set. This is one movie that I believe everyone should see. It is a bit depressing, but if you are tired of all these mindless action sequels coming out every year, watch this. If you've seen it, watch it again. If you prefer mindless action, watch it anyways to see what you are missing. This is not only one of the best movies of the year, it is one of the best movies I've ever seen. No one should miss it. Assuming they are old enough to not run around trying to blow up the Parliament because of it.
~Martini~
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The Wachowski Brothers redeemed!
Posted : 1 year, 6 months ago on 30 May 2008 02:09
(A review of V for Vendetta)"Remember, remember,
The fifth of November,
The gunpowder treason and plot.
I know of no reason
Why the gunpowder treason
Should ever be forgot."
V for Vendetta is a monumental science fiction action-thriller, denoting the duly excellent redemption of The Wachowski Brothers. After helming two horrendously disappointing sequels to their landmark sci-fi picture The Matrix, the brothers have irrevocably redeemed themselves for past blunders with estimable elegance. This outstanding comic book blockbuster is everything one could possibly desire - it's exhilarating, riveting, intense, chilling, electrifying, heartbreaking and extraordinarily entertaining. V for Vendetta is fundamentally a cautionary tale about the rise of fascism and totalitarianism, but it thankfully packs summer-movie pyrotechnics to accompany.
Based on the Vertigo/DC Comics graphic novel (by Alan Moore, illustrated by David Lloyd), V for Vendetta is a futuristic action film set in a dystopian vision of 2020 London. In the wake of a series of devastating terrorist attacks, Chancellor Adam Sutler (Hurt) has ascended to unmitigated supremacy. The general public have forfeited their independence for security; accustomed to exist in a relentless condition of apprehension. Consequently, the perception of constitutional rights for citizens has vanished completely.
A freedom fighter only known as 'V' (Weaving) exercises terrorist diplomacy in an effort to combat the tyrannical society. On the night bridging the fourth and fifth of November, a young British woman named Evey (Portman) is caught by a horde of secret policemen violating the inequitable curfew. The swashbuckling vigilante anarchist V, concealed behind a mask of Guy Fawkes, rescues Evey and she develops into his dubious ally.
Invoking the spirit of Fawkes, V begins the fifth of November by blowing up the Old Bailey to the strings of Tchaikovsky's 1812 Overture. He subsequently ignites a subversive rebellion, marching towards breaking down the fascist government that has taken jurisdiction of Great Britain and has committed atrocities that led the country to its existing condition. V endeavours to eventually reinstate freedom and justice to Britain, as opposed to a society burdened with malice and corruption.
The Wachowski Brothers humbly stepped away from the director's chair, instead adopting a sideline position as writers and producers. Newcomer James McTeigue is an ideal replacement, capable of infusing the film with breathtaking visual flair. Action sequences generally exercise slow motion, but it never grows monotonous. This is one of the only films in history to use slo-mo effectively, which is a testament to the direction and superb cinematography.
V for Vendetta is a solid action film that delivers an insightful political message. The film flawlessly merges a socio-political statement with highly intense stylised action scenes featuring some of the finest cinematic moments of 2005. V for Vendetta is saturated with issues and concepts that permeate the global political climate of the early 21st century, and is endowed with an immense timely relevance that belies its trappings as a mere action adventure. The film is equipped with an intelligent character-driven plot coalesced with greatly assured direction generating the illusion of complete immersion. The action is enthralling and the imagery is stimulating. In addition, the film is kept taut as it moves along at an invigorating pace. The script is smart, thoughtful and provocative. The powerful score is also incredible. Classic orchestral overtures are employed to astonishing effect as an act of anarchy is implemented.
The imagery of 2020 London is marvellously conceived and executed. The intricate metropolis has become grim, depressing and dark. Production design is first-rate, and the top-notch cinematography captures it with consummate skill. The world of V for Vendetta was created mostly with sets and miniatures in Berlin, with some local landscape to finish the portrait of a more noir-ish and sinister London. The filmmakers commendably eschew stereotypical futuristic concepts. There are no flying cars, nor are there any truly notable technological revelations - it never tries to predict any outlandish technology for the future. For this reason (and for many others, like the rare usage of special effects that never exhibit the slightest iota of phoniness), V for Vendetta will never grow outdated.
Hugo Weaving is impeccable in his portrayal of the violent anarchist 'V'. Throughout the movie his face is never revealed as there is no need. V is permanently concealed behind a mask of Guy Fawkes. The mask is not to disguise his identity but it rather acts as a symbol to proclaim his rebellion. The real Guy Fawkes was a Catholic terrorist who unsuccessfully attempted to blow up the British Houses of Parliament in the 1600s. V is a violent man; however his actions are supported by strong logical reasoning. Society becomes governed by fear and violence. As a counteraction, fear and violence is therefore the ideal instrument for change. Weaving's role would have been tremendously challenging to execute as he is always donning a mask; relying solely on his gestures and voice. In all likelihood, V's face is never exposed on account of Weaving's appearance in the Matrix movies - there were so many copies of him (as Mr. Smith) that the actor probably opted to keep his face concealed throughout this film's duration.
Opposite the first-rate Weaving is young Natalie Portman, displaying her unremitting capacity as an actress. She even sports a symbolic Joan of Arc hair-cut in the movie's second half. Evey is the real anchor of the story. The audience automatically empathises with her. She's a reflection of their hopes and fears, and functions as a mirror. She has immense chemistry with Weaving as V, regardless of his face forever being masked. The character of Evey is more impetuous and independent than her comic book counterpart, to the betterment of the film.
The supporting cast is armed with magnificent names like John Hurt, Stephen Rea, and Stephen Fry in addition to numerous others. Hurt in particular is perfect as the narcissistic and cruel tyrannical ruler; ranting and salivating in true fascist style.
Believe the hyperbolic hype regarding this motion picture - V for Vendetta is an outstanding multi-faceted sci-fi production. In addition to being an astonishingly entertaining film it also poses the question of what you're willing to surrender for security. With the contemporary world ruled by fear and dismay, would you renounce your freedom to feel more safe and secure? The film also serves a reminder that the term "terrorist" is defined purely by perspective. As the media poisons us against terrorist actions and utilises propaganda to promote its country, V for Vendetta subtly questions who the terrorists actually are - the anarchists or the government?
V for Vendetta is a revolutionary production that uses its imagery and underlying philosophies as a medium to trigger thought. It's uncommonly provocative for a mainstream movie, and it's pervaded with a marvellous comic book ambiance faithful to its source material. Natalie Portman and Hugo Weaving are a spellbinding duo, and first-time director James McTeigue (who was a second-unit director for The Wachowski Brothers during their Matrix years) demonstrates his ability to stand on his own two feet. In a modern cinematic world, blockbusters prevail and masterpieces are limited. V for Vendetta is both a blockbuster and a masterpiece. It's entertaining and enjoyable, as well as stirring, moving and filled with emotionality. You'll enjoy, you'll cry, and you'll be taking heed of V's immortal words.
10/10
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V for Vendetta
Posted : 2 years, 1 month ago on 6 November 2007 09:16
(A review of V for Vendetta)This movie should be seen by every American at least once in their lifetime! There are deep issues here that concern all persons who care about freedom and truth. If you are naive to the corruption that plagues all Governments, then this movie will be your wake-up call.
The soliloquy by V during his TV transmission is like a marriage between Shakespeare and Thomas Jefferson! It is pure ear ambrosia! That he so boldly addresses the audience (in film and real life) with both rebuke and empathy, is genius! I am brought to tears every time I hear it!
Also, the symbolism in the last fight scene, with V's proclamation that Ideas never die, is so moving that I wager if more people could embrace that notion, our country--our world, would be forever changed. That is the scope and momentum of this film, and why it deserves to be hailed a classic.
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Action movie with a message
Posted : 3 years, 1 month ago on 7 November 2006 12:05
(A review of V for Vendetta)'People should not be afraid of their governments. Governments should be afraid of their people.'
That quote stayed with me long after seeing this movie. Although the original story was against a future totalarian Thatcher british government, it can easily be applied to any right-wing government that starts to restrict freedom, put up curfews, limit free speech, and even go extreme measures such as creating your own terror 'accident' and blaming it on scapegoats just so you can be that much closer to complete government control.
It is also clear in the movie that they are linking the current Bush administration, and even goes as far as suggesting the nation's biggest terrorist attack was actually an inside job. Though 9/11 is not in the storyline, you get the idea what the writers were trying to suggest. The movie also blurs the line that defines a 'terrorist' and a 'freedom fighter'. No matter what your thoughts are on the current 'war on terror', this movie will show you what true freedom means, and why people have a right to fight back to take control of the ever-increasing military right-wing governments of the world.
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great
Posted : 3 years, 9 months ago on 17 March 2006 10:37
(A review of V for Vendetta)this movie was great. go see it
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