V for Vendetta (2006)
(dir. James McTeigue)
Fathom Entertainment
By: Tarek Fayoumi
V for Vendetta, a Pre-show Introduction from director James McTeigue:
From Warner Bros, DC Comics, and Fathom Entertainment, the 2006 sensation V for Vendetta returns to the big screen to celebrate its 20-year anniversary. A thrilling ride of corrupt government and vengeance, the film is still very enticing. It is even more attention-grabbing with words from McTeigue himself. Before the show begins, McTeigue talks about how V for Vendetta has inspired him in many different areas including the narratives of film and art. He also discusses the background of the character V, and he is played by Hugo Weaving (The Lord of the Rings, The Matrix). There is mythology within V’s vengeance, and it lingers in areas such as freedom, identity, and resistance. McTeigue talks about how some of the correlations of the corrupt government in the film connect to today’s world. This introduction makes the experience of V for Vendetta feel like there is an extra layer of intensity bound to be experienced.
Natalie Portman is the One in the Middle of all the Chaos:
The component of the film’s tyrannical government is centered a lot around Evey, played by Natalie Portman (Closer, Jackie). That is because she is the young lady who is saved by V, and is surrounded by his nature of killing and vengeance. At the same time, she is navigating a rough society that she lives in daily. A society with strict curfews and sickos in the streets. Her protection under V, is what makes the film a two-sided conflict of cinematic excellence. There is the safety of Evey, and there is also the dangerous operations of Vhimself. Evey wants to live a life without feeling abused, and only V can protect her from that. At the same time though, the killings and massacres V does at all hours of the many nights does not always mean she is truly safe. V for Vendetta still is an insane ride of distrust flying with wonders of action.
Worth the time?
I found the event well worth the time and energy. Especially with the opening introduction from McTeigue. I felt his feature gave a lot more insight to the direction of the film, and how there are all those foundations of corrupt governments that fuel the fire. V for Vendetta is still a masterpiece of London moments that are unforgettable. V for Vendetta plays one more day with screenings on November 5th. Visit the Fathom website for showtimes and listings.