 The character V is inspired by Guy Fawkes |
The first film written by the Wachowski brothers since The Matrix trilogy made them famous has had its world premiere at the Berlin Film Festival. V for Vendetta is set in a futuristic fascist Britain and stars John Hurt, Natalie Portman and Sinead Cusack.
Australian actor Hugo Weaving plays a terrorist in the film, based on Alan Moore's graphic novel.
"It is a controversial subject matter but it is also a dialogue we have every day," said director James McTeigue.
"I hope you can go and see it as a Saturday night popcorn flick and come out and ask yourself some questions," he added.
Like The Matrix, the film features plenty of action including several martial arts scenes.
V for Vendetta is due for release in the UK next month.
The Berlin festival runs until Sunday, when its top prize, the Golden Bear, will be announced.