“Behind this mask there is more than just flesh. Beneath this mask there is an idea… and ideas are bulletproof.”
― Alan Moore, V for Vendetta
V for Vendetta is a graphic novel written by Alan Moore and illustrated by David Lloyd. In these comics, there is alternate dystopian vision of Britain in the 1990s. The fascist Norsefire party has exterminated its opponents in concentration camps and rules the country. Comics follow V, an anarchist, who starts a revolution to bring down the government.
I like V. I adore V as character. He’s very well created. We can see him as hero fighting for a noble cause or we can think that he is simply a maniac causing a lot of chaos with supernatural powers and brilliant mind. He is a mystery. I also like how the plot enwraps, all the little surprises you don’t see coming and everything you could quote in V for Vendetta … Quotes, they are bulletproof.
“Everybody is special. Everybody. Everybody is a hero, a lover, a fool, a villain. Everybody. Everybody has their story to tell.”
― Alan Moore, V for Vendetta
Graphic novels like this are always a bit twisted and they’re supposed to be like that. I am a bit conflicted about Evey, V’s protégé. First of all she’s very young. Second of all, she’s kidnapped by this mysterious man in a mask who holds her prisoner, brainwashes her for her own good and in the end Evey nearly falls in love with him. But hey let’s not read too much into that.
I don’t see anarchism doing any good and I don’t support anarchism, however I understand portrayal of anarchism in arts, especially in dystopian worlds like this one. I think it goes along with the vigilantes and freedom fighters in comics and literature in general (Robin Hood, Green Arrow, pirates etc….). We are given two ultimatums in these comics: fascism or anarchism so I understand the appeal of anarchism. Though, in the end, we don’t know what happened after.
5/5 stars
Tips
1. If you’ve never read graphic novels before but you’d like to try it out, here’s one you should start with it! Unless you don’t like dark stuff, in that case turn away from V for Vendetta.
2. Perfect November read! And if you like this, read Watchmen by Alan Moore, there are connections to V for Vendetta.
3. Content: dystopian Britain, violence, anarchism, fascism, twistedness, death and destruction.
4. MOVIE! If you’re not going to read the comics, see the movie because V is awesome in flesh. One of my all time favorite movies. (And he is just a freedom fighter in movie.)
“Remember, remember the fifth of November of gunpowder treason and plot. I know of no reason why the gun powder treason should ever be forgot.”
― Alan Moore, V for Vendetta
Seen the movie whiles back, I know the graphic novel is gonna be nicer
Haven’t read the book, but love the movie. Evey is young? How old is she?
I love the movie too! Evey is sixteen in the novel, which is maybe not that young, but a lot younger than she appears as in the movie.
Sixteen? :O
Yeah o.O
Very young!
I read a lot of comics when I was in high school. I still do but not so much now. I’ve seen the movie but I can’t remember much about it. Would love to check this one out though.
Haraiah @ Random Things In Action
I see, I just got into comics recently. Have only ever read this and Sandman so looking up some other works by Alan Moore :) You should if you liked the movie. Thank you for commenting!
I’ve seen the movie – love Natalie Portman! But she sure isn’t sixteen.
She is such a talented and beautiful actress!
Awesome :) I have only seen the movie but it is among my favourites!
Nice review! If you enjoyed this I recommend Watchmen by Moore & artist Dave Gibbons. Also Moore’s early Swamp Thing graphic novels, especially the first 2 volumes.
Love The Sandman too:)
Thank you! I’ve read Watchmen and Sandman and I really enjoyed reading them. l have to add Swamp Thing to my TBR :) thank you for recommendations!
Your reviews is wonderful i can follow the each and every instruction here.
It loved how V talked in the movie.
Read both this and Watchmen. So much talent in each. Agree with your point that a great one to start with if you’re new to the genre.
This is one of my favorite graphic novels EVER. (As well as movies. I watch it religiously every Fifth of November. <3) I'm so glad you enjoyed this book! It's just wonderful, isn't it?