'V for Vendetta' gets a new star

Although filming is well under way on the on the comic-book adaptation, it seems that it's all-change for the cast.

May  9 2005

Hugo Weaving has joined the cast of forthcoming comic-book adaptation 'V for Vendetta'.

Weaving, who is best known as the the iconic Mr Smith in 'The Matrix' trilogy, replaces James Purefoy, who left the production for undisclosed reasons.

He will take over the lead role of 'V' – a masked hero/vigilante/terrorist who takes on the totalitarian government of a near-future Britain.

Directed by first-timer James McTeigue (from a script by the Wachowski brothers) the movie also stars Natalie Portman, Stephen Rea and Stephen Fry.

Filming is already underway in Berlin, with the production expected to move to London later this month.

The change in cast should not effect the release date however, with 'V for Vendetta' still expected to hit cinemas on November 3.

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