Juxtaposition in The Domino Montage

In the domino sequence from V for Vendetta, juxtaposition is used throughout to convey how actions and scenarios are linked. We see this in the following stills, which are located directly one after the other in the sequence.

The first use of juxtaposition is the comparison made between the starting domino and the train yard. In showing these shots together, the audience makes the connection that both scenarios are linked. Through personal experience we known domino's require precision, for the desired goal to knock them all down. When we compare this to the train yard, we make the connection that trains also require precision, in following train schedules and ensuring trains arrive on time. In seeing the single domino and the train yard, the audience may see it as the starting point for two different processes.

The second part of juxtaposition which can be detected in the sequence is when the rose cuts to two ladies sharing an intimate moment. Although very different things, the audience can see these to symbolise romance and peace. In relation to the scenarios, the detective is looming over a rose in a dark environment. But then we see two people in love, in a bright free flowing environment. With these in mind, the viewer can also interpret it as life and death.  

 

Another use of juxtaposition in the sequence is when we cut from a door with a chalk X on it, to Mr Creedy holding some chalk. This is used to reveal narrative. We haven't seen Mr Creedy physically draw a chalk X on the door, but where he is shown holding the chalk directly after, the audience makes the assumption he has drawn the X. In doing this gives the audience some responsibility in following the story line, therefore keeping the audience engaging with the film.

     
The next image captures Evey in the rain and V in the fire. They are also both adopting the same pose, of raising their hands up towards the sky. This shows the viewer Evey and V can be both very similar, but at the same time completely different. The surroundings can be interpreted by the viewer to reveal the different things about the characters. Evey being in the rain shows us she is calm and that it reflects a new start or way of life. Rain can also be used to reflect the continuation of life, as water is necessary for life to thrive. V on the other hand is consumed by flames, which can mean anger and frustration. It can also show the audience that V is a character who has been associated with evil and darkness. We can also see this as a new start like that of Evey's, symbolising the tale of the phenix which rises from the ashes to create new life. In putting these shots together makes the audience compare all these different features.

In the sequence, the symbol of V is displayed multiple times one after the other. It can refer to the large scale of which V has impacted society. It may also reflect his different methods of operation, through showing the symbol to the audience in different mediums e.g. a cell door, fireworks, a poster and dominos. Above all else it reinforces V as the protagonist and all that he has accomplished.

          
We also see many faces from people who have been in the film to this point. Firstly we see V, then it cuts to various other people all situated in different location. This is done to make the viewer observe everyones reactions and facial expression in response to V. Every persons facial expressions conveys a sense of seriousness and concentration to what is being said by V, revealing no one likes the state of the current society they live in. Like the symbols of V, showing all these people helps reinforce the large scale being portrayed.

     
The final piece of juxtaposition is when V triggers the dominos, then it cuts to the riots in the streets and the police officers moving forward. This can show the spark/commencing of the conflict that has arisen from V's actions. Showing the falling of the dominos can be seen to mimic the forward movement of the  police through the street.