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V for Vendetta

V for Vendetta is a 2005 political action thriller film directed by James McTeigue and written by the Wachowskis, based on the 1988–1989 graphic novel by Alan Moore and David Lloyd.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 27, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

V for Vendetta is a 2005 political action thriller film directed by James McTeigue and written by the Wachowskis. It is based on the 1988–1989 graphic novel by Alan Moore and David Lloyd. Set in a dystopian future United Kingdom ruled by a fascist regime, the film follows the masked vigilante V and Evey Hammond as they resist state oppression.

Premise

The story follows V, a masked anarchist vigilante who targets a fascist government in future Britain. Evey Hammond becomes drawn into his campaign after being rescued from state violence.

Production and adaptation

The film adapts the graphic novel by Alan Moore and David Lloyd, but it makes notable changes to the source material. It was written by the Wachowskis and directed by James McTeigue, who had worked as an assistant director on The Matrix films.

Cast and characters

Hugo Weaving portrays V, while Natalie Portman plays Evey Hammond. The supporting cast includes Stephen Rea as Inspector Finch and John Hurt as Chancellor Adam Sutler.

Reception and cultural impact

The film was widely discussed for its political themes and visual style. Its Guy Fawkes mask later became strongly associated with anti-establishment activism and online protest movements.

Key facts

  • The film is an adaptation of Alan Moore and David Lloyd’s graphic novel.
  • It is set in a near-future authoritarian Britain ruled by the Norsefire party.
  • Hugo Weaving plays the masked vigilante V, and Natalie Portman plays Evey Hammond.
  • The Guy Fawkes mask used in the film became an enduring protest symbol.
  • The film was released in 2006 and runs 132 minutes.
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Canadian context

The film has been widely distributed and discussed in Canada as part of global political-cinema and comic-book adaptation culture, and the Guy Fawkes mask has appeared in Canadian protest imagery as well.

Frequently asked questions

What is V for Vendetta based on?
It is based on the graphic novel by Alan Moore and David Lloyd.
Who directed V for Vendetta?
James McTeigue directed the film.
Who plays V?
Hugo Weaving plays V.
Who plays Evey Hammond?
Natalie Portman plays Evey Hammond.
What is the film about?
It depicts a masked vigilante’s campaign against a fascist government in future Britain.
Why is the Guy Fawkes mask important?
The film helped popularize the mask as a symbol of protest and anti-establishment activism.

References

  1. British Film Institute — https://www.bfi.org.uk/film/9e2c4d26-b387-510b-9088-322fb85b4b1d/v-for-vendetta
    Supports: Director, cast, running time, premise, and production context.
  2. Rotten Tomatoes — https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/v_for_vendetta
    Supports: Release year, genre, runtime, rating, and synopsis.
  3. Moviefone — https://www.moviefone.com/news/v-for-vendetta-facts/
    Supports: Release date, cast, source material, and cultural impact of the Guy Fawkes mask.
  4. CBR — https://www.cbr.com/v-for-vendetta-movie-facts/
    Supports: Adaptation from the graphic novel, cast, and association with Anonymous and the Guy Fawkes mask.
  5. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/V_for_Vendetta_(film)
    Supports: Basic film identification, cast, plot setting, and production details.