V For Vendetta (2005): “Fascism is overthrown by faceless conformists at the direction of an abusive terrorist”
Based on the graphic novel by Alan Moore and David Lloyd, directed by James McTeigue and written by the Wachowskis, V For Vendetta was hailed as a striking and timely stab at an unjust, unequal society – depicting a world that is a future to be avoided. Set in the late 2020s, the film introduces a world in conflict-torn chaos, with the U.K as the last remaining beacon of ‘stability’ – thanks to its ruling fascist government. It is an oppressive regime that imprisons its opponents, and those it considers ‘undesirable,’ employing methods such as propaganda, torture and execution to ensure their position of absolute power.
‘V’ (Hugo Weaving) appears from the shadows to rescue Evey (Natalie Portman) from an attack by government operatives, and allows her to witness his theatrical and dramatic destruction of London’s Old Bailey. Hidden by a Guy Fawkes mask, he lays out his plan in an illegal broadcast – stating to the nation his intention to destroy the Houses Of Parliament on November 5th the following year, and encouraging his fellow countrymen to rise up against their government. He then begins to systematically torture and ‘break down’ Evey, leading her to believe she is being held by the government, before revealing himself to be her captor. Once the shock has subsided, Evey is grateful to him for the abuse and betrayal he has subjected her to – also known as brainwashing, or radicalisation – and ultimately helps him to achieve his goal.
Finally, as V requested, the nation gathers in unarmed protest – each and every one wearing exactly the same mask. Emerging from under the boot of one branded regime, the people flock to unite and conform behind the symbol used by another abusive mass murderer.