V for Vendetta (2005)

The film “V for Vendetta” (based on the animated comics) is prone to many interpretations, especially the character that “V” portrays. Despite all these interpretations of him, I saw a hint of Machiavelli in him when he sought to kill those who were involved in his horrid unintentional transformation to the masked vigilante he is now known to be. His destructive acts not only include killing the people who were hindrances to his goal, but also blowing up different infrastructures, especially the parliament in the end. He saw these acts necessary to attain his goal, which are actually morally ambiguous. But mentioning this, he seemed more UTILIATARIAN as he believes that in order to have the liberty (or happiness) the citizens of his state is entitled to, he had to do those acts. He saw that it was the right thing to do as it would cause a greater number of people good.

In the same film, “V for Vendetta” actually portrays the fascist ruler (Chancellor Adam Sutler) being Machiavellian with his policies. He has killed all the homosexuals, criminals and destroyed all other people or things that he believes could corrupt a society, but moreover, make him lose the power he possesses as a tyrant. He saw these exterminations and enforcement of strict rules necessary for him to obtain, attain and expand his power. It did not matter to him that he was feared more than he was loved. He may not possess all the qualities a leader must be for Machiavelli, but indeed this fascist leader is a product of this philosophy.