03:42 PM CST on Thursday, March 16, 2006

By GARY COGILL / WFAA-TV

AP

Politics included, the film is an outrageous political commentary.

V for Vendetta is one of the most unusual movies I have ever seen, simply because it's so politically incorrect. Hugo Weaving plays V, a self-appointed revolutionary of the future, disillusioned, and angry with his corrupt government.

He's also disfigured and hiding behind a mask.

You might call this George Orwell's 1984 meets The Phantom of the Opera.

So what does V do? He starts blowing up government buildings, is labeled a terrorist, and takes on a protege, played-well by Natalie Portman. Portman's character and V begin and end their relationship with political discussion, but not before she is captured by authorities and her head shaved.

V for Vendetta is another visual stunner from the Wachowski brothers, they created the Matrix movies, and is based on the popular graphic novel by Alan Moore. Their latest might be the most overtly political and anti-establishment movie in years, all packaged inside an action film.

V for Vendetta is rated R and yes, it's both troubling and fascinating. There is something odd and compelling and well-written about this comic book revolutionary. Politics aside, this is an engaging, challenging film. Politics included, it's an outrageous political commentary.