V for Vendetta struck just about every political chord in my body. Hugo did an excellent job, but I couldn't help hearing Agent Smith in some of the slower dialog moments (he has that way of enunciating...sort of prolongs the endings of words sometimes). Portman was surprisingly good which is rare for a Star Wars veteran (and no, Harrison Ford is no exception). Lots of darkness. I can't remember many scenes at all that aren't cast in shadow. I'll definitely have to see it again on DVD.

One of the main themes is the use of fear manipulate entire populations. Anytime you hear a politician use the word "crisis", you can bet it's time for re-election. People are more than willing to give more and more power to their government when they're afraid of crisis. Entire lobbying groups (think AARP), exist to feed the vicious cycle. Social Security Crisis - more AARP members - more money to politician talking about crisis - no actual work to fix crisis - bigger crisis - more members for AARP...you see where this goes. Substitute your favorite crisis. There are plenty to choose from.