V for Vendetta - Characters & Cast

V is motivated by a dual purpose: to exact revenge on the individuals who tortured and experimented on him at the Larkhill Resettlement Camp, and to dismantle the fascist Norsefire regime that rose to power through fear and oppression. He seeks to liberate the people of Britain and inspire them to govern themselves.

V's character remains largely static throughout the film, as he is already a fully formed revolutionary driven by his past trauma and ideals. His primary role is to act as a catalyst for change in both Evey and society. While his methods are violent and rooted in personal revenge, his ultimate goal is to empower the people to rule themselves. He begins as a lone avenger and ends as a symbol that has ignited a revolution, sacrificing himself for the idea he represents.

Initially, Evey is motivated by survival and a desire to remain unnoticed by the authorities. As the story progresses, her motivation shifts to understanding V and his cause. After her 'rebirth', her motivation becomes the pursuit of freedom and justice, not just for herself but for all of society, leading her to continue V's legacy.

Evey undergoes the most significant character arc in the film. She begins as a timid and fearful young woman, traumatized by the loss of her parents and compliant with the oppressive regime. Through her interactions with V, particularly her simulated imprisonment and torture, she is forced to confront her deepest fears. This ordeal transforms her into a strong, self-possessed individual who understands the necessity of resistance. By the end of the film, she has embraced V's ideals and willingly takes up his mantle to complete his mission.

Finch's primary motivation is to solve the case and stop V. However, he is also driven by a genuine desire for the truth. He is a methodical and intuitive investigator who is not satisfied with the government's sanitized version of events. His pursuit of the truth ultimately leads him to question the legitimacy of the entire regime.

Inspector Finch starts as a loyal, albeit weary, detective for the Norsefire regime, tasked with capturing V. As he delves deeper into the investigation, he uncovers the dark secrets behind the government's rise to power, including the truth about the St. Mary's virus and the Larkhill camp. This knowledge leads to his disillusionment with the regime he serves. In the end, he chooses to stand aside and allow V's plan to succeed, signifying his shift in allegiance from the state to the people.

Sutler is motivated by a lust for absolute power and control. He believes in order and conformity, and sees any form of dissent or individuality as a threat to his authority. He uses fear and manipulation to maintain his grip on the nation, believing that his way is the only way to ensure security and stability.

High Chancellor Adam Sutler's character does not have a developmental arc; he is the embodiment of the fascist, totalitarian regime. He is portrayed as a power-hungry, paranoid, and ruthless leader who maintains control through fear and propaganda. His presence in the film is primarily through large video screens, emphasizing his detached and imposing nature. He remains an unwavering tyrant until his downfall.