A Dystopian Film That Falls Short of Expectations
I have a soft spot for dystopian films that challenge authority. However, V for Vendetta never quite matches the cyberpunk excitement promised in its marketing. The striking image of Natalie Portman with a shaved head was meant to grab attention, but the film itself feels like a rehash of The Matrix without the same intensity.
Instead of a gripping anti-establishment narrative, we get a confusing middle act filled with a sexless S&M scene. In this segment, a leather-clad character tortures a girl, shaving her head and trying to convert her to his twisted desires. It feels like the film prioritizes shock value over its political message.
Natalie Portman struggles with her London accent in the first half, making her character, Evey, somewhat irritating. However, she eventually settles into the role, showcasing her talent for portraying emotional confusion. Unfortunately, the film leans towards a conservative viewpoint, failing to fully embrace the powerful imagery from Alan Moore’s graphic novel. The iconic “V” symbol, which echoes the Anarchist “A,” loses its impact. Evey remains passive throughout the story, lacking the transformation that would have made her character more compelling.
A Second Look at the Film
After revisiting the graphic novel, I decided to watch the film again. While it differs significantly from the book, I still enjoy it. In fact, I might prefer the film to the graphic novel, not just because I saw it first.
In both versions, Evey’s life changes dramatically after meeting the mysterious masked man, V. He saves her from danger and pulls her into his plan to overthrow England’s fascist government. Evey is torn between her fear of V and her desire for the change he promises.
The film streamlines the story, focusing on Evey, V, and Finch, the investigator trying to catch V. While some plot details about government corruption and backstabbing are cut, I don’t mind the simplification. However, the film’s portrayal of the rise of the fascist government feels too simplistic, with clear-cut lines between good and evil.
V’s Character Shines
V remains as intriguing as in the graphic novel. Hugo Weaving delivers a fantastic performance, making V theatrical and complex, even with his face hidden behind the Guy Fawkes mask. I find Evey’s character more relatable in the film. In the graphic novel, I often wished she was stronger. Here, she undergoes a significant transformation, starting with small changes early on. The film downplays the more explicit “sexual survival” themes from the book, making Evey’s journey more accessible.
The film features many familiar British actors. John Hurt plays the Chancellor, while Roger Allam, Rupert Graves, and Ben Miles add depth to the supporting cast. However, Stephen Fry stands out as Evey’s boss, a media personality with hidden depths. His memorable scene with Evey highlights the film’s strengths, alongside powerful moments like V’s opening act and the prison sequence.
Final Thoughts on V for Vendetta
V for Vendetta offers a unique take on a dystopian future, but it struggles to deliver a truly anarchic narrative. The film’s focus on a brand-name superhero and formulaic storytelling limits its potential. A director with a stronger vision could have transformed this material into something truly impactful.
Despite its flaws, the film remains an engaging watch. It captures the essence of the graphic novel while offering a different perspective on the characters and themes. If you appreciate dystopian tales that challenge authority, V for Vendetta is worth a look, even if it doesn’t fully live up to its potential.
