The whole universe in one
ACTION-PACKED: CUNNING MILITARY MAN AND WOMANISER AN UNLIKELY BIG-SCREEN HERO
The start of what could be a visually stunning new series.
You don’t need the Hollywood machine or a major studio to make a blockbuster, just ask French director Luc Besson. Taking inspiration from French science fiction comics-series Valérian and Laureline, Besson has managed to make a bigbudget spectacle that Hollywood studios dream of.
The director crowd-funded and personally financed the film, making it the most expensive independent film ever produced. This effort alone validates it as a worthwhile trip to the cinemas this weekend. Other critics might call the film messy, and there are a few flaws, but overall Valerian serves a tabula rasa introduction into what will likely be a new cinematic saga, and in the world where film series has become too cluttered by studios milking every last dime from comic book characters, Valerian is an exciting addition with source material most didn’t grow up with.
Taking the reins as a babyfaced militia man, Major Valerian is Dane DeHaan. Valerian is a decorated veteran who with his partner Laureline has maintained order in human territories as special operatives. Set in the 28th century the two receive an assignment from the minister of defence and embark on a mission to the city of Alpha—an ever-expanding metropolis where species from all over the universe have converged over centuries to share intelligence and cultures with each other.
But the utopia is under attack when a red zone is discovered in the heart of the city where something is threatening the peaceful existence of robots, humans and aliens. It’s up to Valerian and Laureline to uncover the mystery and save Alpha.
As simple as it sounds, the film is also set on two additional planets, each with its own story, in- habitants, enemies and of course friends. The plot is linear and straightforward, making it appealing to younger audiences, especially teens who will lap up the excitement in this interplanetary adventure.
DeHaan is a charming onscreen presence, and every girl will swoon for this unlikely bigscreen hero. As a cunning military man and womaniser Valerian is often outsmarted by Laureline, played by model and actress Cara Delevingne. She delivers a somewhat more believable performance than her previous big screen stints, and teenage boys won’t be mad at her frolicking on a beach in a bikini.
But the cute-as-a-button actors take a back seat when it comes to the extraordinary visuals of the film and an incredibly slick cameo by pop superstar Rihanna. At times I wished the camera could pan more left or right just so you can take in the worlds that Besson managed to create.
The action is also non-stop and Valerian will have you on the edge of your seat. The film will certainly find its fans, much like Besson’s previous work, like The
5th Element. Be sure to splurge on an Imax or 4DX ticket – it’s a wild ride worth every penny in terms of visual splendour. The director said if they break even he would consider making a sequel.