So, who's seen V for Vendetta? I just got back from the theater (I saw its "IMAX" incarnation), and I have to say that I thought it was pretty great. I went in with almost no expectations, and I walked out very, very pleased. As a whole, the film just works. After the two "Matrix" sequels, I somewhat began to wonder whether the Wachowskis would turn out to be a "one-hit wonder" duo, but V has made me feel much more confident in their abilities as film-makers/script-writers. Start to finish, the movie is intelligent, entertaining, and captivating. Technically, the film is stellar: The background music keeps you enthralled, and the visuals are just beautiful. The special effects, of course (it is a "Wachowski" film [I know they didn't direct it, but it seems they were heavily involved in its coming into form]), never falter. One of the film's sincere strongpoints, is its willingness to play with genres a bit. Yes, there's a constant, riveting "feel," but there's humor, some sattire, action (of course), non-heavy-handed political commentary, etc. Speaking of politics, the movie makes a brilliant move by being wholely relevant to our current times — War in Iraq, Avian Flu, terrorism, fear tactics, etc. — yet throwing in enough fantasy and blatant fiction, to not seem a high-horse-seated "preachy-ass" venture. After the "prequel trilogy" Star Wars debacle, I enjoyed seeing Natalie Portman in a film I could actually have respect for. As the movie is very much a philosophical endeavor, I liked that, though a strong point was made, nothing was harshly shoved down the audience's collective throat. Personally, I have nothing "against" the use of violence in films, but I very much prefer that it indeed be used, and not just "shoved in." In V for Vendetta, there's plenty of blood and lots of ass-kicking sweetness, but there're no moments that make you beg for the cessation of a seemingly end-less scene. I think the two Matrix sequels failed mostly in that they spent energy only in a superficial "story" and a beefed-up, non-stop "action entertainer." This might be fine for some "escapist films," but I wanted more from the films that succeeded a profoundly thoughtful and well-structed, idea-driven work. Ummm...that's it. Anyone?

The film IMO was camp yet entertaining. The style is very much like pop trash of anarchy, which is more interesting then typical "pompous" films which tackles themes of revolution and sedition. I would recommended it to others.