Image source: IMDb
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Enjoy a science fiction visual feast of color and imagination.
Information about the movie, at the bottom of the post
General impression:
Luc Besson’s films have often intersected my interests, so, I generally like his work. Although it is not in my personal top 3 Besson movies, I enjoyed watching “Valerian”. Several scenes in the movie are spectacular, but my favorite was the extra-dimensional commercial complex – so exciting! I was divided between liking the execution of the concept and, on the other hand, trying to figure out how it could have been made even better. The movie doesn’t have a jaw-dropping plot or twists – which is fine. The simple sci-fi story gives a clean base for the fantasy world to unfold in all its richness. As the title suggests (“Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets“), there are many types of creatures and environments to be seen in this movie. And, although it looks very much like any Hollywood movie, it has an European je ne sais quoi that reminded me of childhood stories. The cast was not fantastic, but it didn’t bother me, and I was surprised at how well Rihanna fitted into the picture.
Highlights:
Awesome visuals. The world created by Luc Besson and his team is full of imagination and color.
Downside:
The chemistry between the protagonists was rather weird – not great, not awful. It almost seemed like they didn’t bring out the best in each other, and you, the viewer, kind of end up wanting some other partner for either of them.
Would I see it again? – Yeah – it’s a visual treat.
My Rating (1 to 10): 8.5
Recommended: Yes!
Suggestion:
Check out the grand version of “Gangsta’s Paradise” by 2WEI featured in the trailer for “Valerian”: https://vimeo.com/218829124 & https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EEL2VomvzkI
Information about Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets
Year of release: 2017
Director: Luc Besson
Writers: Luc Besson (screenplay), Pierre Christin, Jean-Claude Mézières (creators of the comic book series “Valérian and Laureline”)
Starring: Dane DeHaan, Cara Delevingne, Clive Owen, Rihanna, Ethan Hawke, etc.
For more information on “Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets”, visit Wikipedia and/or IMDb
