Totalitarism has always been a frightening but very interesting concept. Many science-fiction authors have used the idea for governments of the future and how democracy would give way to a stricter government. Alan Moore took that one step further and created an entire graphic novel around it called “V for Vendetta.”

            Centered on a “terrorist” known only as V, the novel pursues his quest to get revenge against the iron willed government for the wrongs done against him and the populace. He uses extreme and violent tactics to try to liberate the people and overthrow the oppression.

            Unlike most science-fiction works that touch on totalitarism, “Vendetta” makes the reader wonder if V’s actions are even in the best interest of the people or if he is merely acting on his undying thirst for revenge.

            The year is 2020 and a virus has nearly wiped out the human population. America has been devastated and all but eliminated. In Britain, a man rises with the promise of security at the expense of freedom. John Hurt, who also starred in another totalitarism film “1984,” plays Sutler, the dictator. There are striking similarities between Hurt’s Sutler and Adolph Hitler.

            Hugo Weaving, the unmistakable Mr. Smith from “The Matrix” trilogy, plays V. But you never actually see his face. Instead, Weaving uses his brooding voice and body language to deliver the character and express his hatred for the government. The mask that V wears does get a little strange looking throughout the movie. You hear him talk, you see him movie, but you never see his lips move. It plays tricks on the mind at times.

            “V for Vendetta” is written and produced by the Wachowski brothers who went from high-to-low with their “Matrix” movies. Luckily, “Vendetta” plays more like the story driven “The Matrix” and less like the special-effects laden sequels. But don’t get me wrong, there are plenty of big budget explosions and special effects to satisfy the action junkie. But if you are looking for an action vehicle to hold you over until the summer movie season begins, “V for Vendetta” is not for you.

            First and foremost, this is a political film. There are even connotations that remind a person of present day events. “V for Vendetta” is not an anti-American or anti-Bush film, but it does show what happens when governmental power goes unchecked in the name of security.

            I actually wondered how good a movie could be when it combines the Wachowski, the orchestrators of the biggest letdown in movie history with the “Matrix” sequels, and Natalie Portman (“Star Wars” prequels). But Portman brought her “Closer” acting skills for “Vendetta.” While her character still had moments that remind you of “Anakin, you’re breaking my heart,” from “Revenge of the Sith,” she pulls off the role as Evey, the nosey reporter pretty decently.

            The relationship between V and Evey can be best paralleled with “The Phantom of the Opera.” In fact, that parallel adds more of a dramatic touch to the movie and pulls it away from the usual “big explosions equal big dollars” popcorn movies.

            Alan Moore originally removed his name denounced any involvement with production. He must have been avidly anticipating the “Matrix” sequels as the rest of us. But he also had his name removed from two previous adaptations of his works: “From Hell” and “The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen.” But Moore has since publicly supported “V for Vendetta.”

            In a time when Hollywood is filled with sequels, remakes and comic book adaptations, “V for Vendetta” walks a tight line between all of them. It borrows a little inspiration from George Orwell’s “1984” and is another comic book adaptation, but it is different from the rest.

            “V for Vendetta” places itself in the same breath as “Sin City” as one of those unforgiving comic book adaptations that has not been watered down for Hollywood. It still has plenty of big budget escapades, but it grounds them and counters with a very healthy dose of compelling story and entertaining drama.

            Somebody described this movie to me as a “thinking man’s action film.” And that is actually right. If you like political thrillers like “1984” and “The Manchurian Candidate,” definitely check out “V for Vendetta.” If you are looking for a quick fix for your action cravings, wait for DVD.