The 2006 dystopian action thriller “V for Vendetta” is a movie that packs a punch with every line. Based on the graphic novel by Alan More which was initially published in 1982, the movie tells the story of a future where the United Kingdom is controlled by a fascist regime. 

The protagonist, simply known as “V” is an anarchist dressed in a Guy Fawkes mask who aims to start a revolution through elaborate acts of terrorism. The story of V for Vendetta gripped audiences not just with its captivating narrative but also with its memorable dialogue. 

 As we dive into these powerful lines, we will explore what makes “V for Vendetta” an enduring favorite and a relevant voice in our contemporary world.

#1: “Beneath this mask, there is more than flesh. Beneath this mask there is an idea, Mr. Creedy, and ideas are bulletproof.”

• Context: In a climactic moment, V faces Mr. Creedy, one of his main antagonists. Despite being cornered and injured, V’s resilience is unwavering. After being shot multiple times and not falling, Creedy asks him why won’t he die. V then says the quote, declaring that his physical being is less significant than the idea he embodies – an idea of resistance and freedom that cannot be destroyed, even by bullets. 
• My reasoning: This is my favorite quote because it encapsulates the essence of the film – the enduring power of ideas. It has also profoundly impacted me. I remember being very young and watching the movie at my friend’s house and that scene stuck with me; it nurtured an understanding that beliefs and convictions are far mightier than the physical self and taught me that ideas are the most powerful thing someone can have.

#2. “We are told to remember the idea and not the man. Because a man can fail. He can be caught, he can be killed and forgotten. But 400 years later, an idea can still change the world.”

• Context: This reflection on the legacy of Guy Fawkes serves as a powerful opening to the movie. This quote is about how ideas can transcend time, surviving beyond the lives of those who created them. This relates directly to the movie in that even though Guy Fawkes died, his ideas lived on; and, through V, they eventually went on to change the world. 
• My reasoning: I rank this second as it resonates deeply with the notion that ideas have a life of their own, outliving their originators and continuously inspiring change. Similar to the first quote to me this line is just a reminder that ideas are powerful and demonstrates the importance of intellectuality.

#3. “I fell in love with you, Evey, like I no longer believed I could.”

• Context: This line comes about as V prepares for his final act, he confesses his love to Evey. It’s a moment of vulnerability, revealing a human side to the masked revolutionary.
• My reasoning: This line strikes a chord within me for its portrayal of love as a transformative power; it reminds me of the beauty of the human condition. For a  movie so focused on rebellion and destruction, it is always refreshing to see a romantic scene because in a revolution things like love, hope, and vulnerability are just as important as gunpowder and explosives.

  

#4. “I have witnessed first-hand the power of ideas,  I’ve seen people kill in the name of them, and die defending them.”

• Context: V shares his perspective on the impact of ideas with Evey, ideas influenced by his experiences and observations. He highlights the capacity ideas have to inspire extreme actions.
• My reasoning: I find this line compelling as it speaks again to the profound influence ideas have on human behavior, emphasizing the responsibility that comes with powerful ideologies. Ideas can be good and they can be bad; they can drive people to do very good things and also motivate them to do horrendous actions and this line encapsulates that very well.

#5. “A revolution without dancing is a revolution not worth having.”

• Context: V conveys this to Evey, underlining the importance of joy and spirit amid their struggle. It’s a reminder that the human element should not be lost in the pursuit of ideological goals.
• My reasoning: I place this quote at number five because it highlights a vital yet often overlooked aspect of activism and change: the need for joy and celebration. Even in the depths of struggle, maintaining our humanity – our ability to experience joy and embrace life – is crucial. As a nod to number three, this line is yet again a reminder that the revolution cannot and should not be fueled by hate, but instead, it should be energized by joy and driven by love.

#6. “People should not be afraid of their governments. Governments should be afraid of their people.”

• Context: This iconic line is delivered by V during a broadcast, challenging the populace to stand up against their oppressive government. It epitomizes the film’s critique of authoritarianism and the call for empowerment.

  

• My reasoning: I love this line because of its direct, powerful message about the dynamics of power and fear between governments and their citizens. Undoubtedly one of the most iconic lines in the movie, and the only reason I didn’t put it higher is because it’s very well known and probably tops every list of cool lines from the movie and I wanted to innovate.

#7. “Violence can be used for good.”

• Context: In a conversation with Evey, V expresses this complex idea, touching on the ethical morality of using violence as a means to achieve a greater good in a fight against tyranny.
• My reasoning: This quote provocatively challenges the conventional notions of violence. V, who constantly crosses the line between revolutionary actions and straight-up terrorism, is an extreme example of someone who uses violence for good but in the real world, there are many less radical examples of this. Individuals such as Paul Watson or the members of the Animal Liberation do in fact use violence for means they perceive as good, although they do not kill anyone in the process.

#8. “Words offer the means to meaning, and for those who will listen, the enunciation of truth.”

• Context: V says this to Evey, highlighting the significance of language and communication in revealing truths, especially in their fight against a deceptive regime.
• My reasoning: I like this quote for its emphasis on the power of truthful communication in a world filled with propaganda and misinformation. This line underscores the importance of critical thinking and listening.

#9. “There is no certainty, only opportunity.”

• Context: V discusses with Evey the unpredictable nature of their struggle against the regime. When outcomes are uncertain and the status quo is daunting, he emphasizes the importance of seizing opportunities for change even if there is no guarantee of success.

  

• My reasoning: This quote captures the essence of hope and possibility in the face of uncertainty. It resonates with the idea that in every challenge lies the chance to make a difference. Standing up for what you believe in can be a scary thing but scary things need to be done sometimes. I’m sure that greats of the past like Martin Luther King, Jr. and Abraham Lincoln had moments where they were unsure if they would succeed. They understood that there was no certainty only opportunity and they took that opportunity and changed the world.

#10. “Remember, remember the fifth of November, the gunpowder treason and plot. I know of no reason why the gunpowder treason should ever be forgotten.”

• Context: This line, recited by V at various points, connects the film’s narrative to the historical Gunpowder Plot of 1605. It serves as V’s rallying cry against the evil regime of England and is a symbol of resistance against tyranny.
• My reasoning: It ranks tenth on my list not for lack of significance, but because its power lies more in its historical and symbolic relevance to the film’s plot rather than a personal connection. It’s a nod to the enduring nature of rebellion against oppression, a theme that’s timeless and universal. The importance the line has to the movie above all is immeasurable and every time V says it I get goosebumps.

As the curtains fall on our journey through the impactful quotes from “V for Vendetta,” it’s clear that the film’s legacy extends far beyond its cinematic lifespan. These lines carry themes of rebellion, identity, and the indomitable spirit of those who believe in a better tomorrow.

For me, “V for Vendetta” brings a new perspective through which we can view our society, question our norms, and dare to think differently. The power of its narrative lies in its ability to provoke thought and inspire change.

Now, I turn to you. How have these quotes from “V for Vendetta” spoken to you? Do they challenge your beliefs or inspire you to view the world differently? Perhaps you have your movie with quotes that resonate strongly with your experiences. I invite you to share your perspectives and have dialogues with those around you about the things you hear and what they mean to you.