Released in 2017 and directed by visionary filmmaker Luc Besson, Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets is a visually stunning science fiction epic based on the French comic series Valérian and Laureline by Pierre Christin and Jean-Claude Mézières. With its vibrant world-building, dazzling special effects, and a story rooted in themes of cooperation and justice, the film seeks to transport audiences to a universe teeming with alien cultures, intergalactic intrigue, and high-stakes adventure.
Plot Overview
The film follows Major Valerian (Dane DeHaan) and Sergeant Laureline (Cara Delevingne), a pair of special operatives tasked with maintaining order across the sprawling universe of the 28th century. Their mission begins aboard Alpha, a vast space station nicknamed “The City of a Thousand Planets,” which has become a hub for countless alien species to share knowledge, culture, and technology. However, Alpha faces a grave threat as an unknown force begins to destabilize its core, jeopardizing the harmony of its diverse inhabitants.
Valerian and Laureline are assigned to uncover the mystery behind this menace, leading them to a hidden conspiracy tied to the destruction of the planet Mül, a once-thriving utopia home to the peaceful Pearl people. As they navigate through Alpha’s labyrinthine districts, each populated by unique and often bizarre alien species, they uncover truths about betrayal, greed, and the enduring strength of compassion.
Visual Splendor and World-Building
One of the film’s standout elements is its spectacular visual design. Luc Besson, renowned for his work on The Fifth Element, pushes the boundaries of cinematic creativity, crafting a universe that feels both fantastical and immersive. From the serene beauty of the Pearls’ oceanic homeworld to the chaotic bazaar of Big Market—a multi-dimensional marketplace where transactions occur in parallel dimensions—the settings are brimming with intricate details and imaginative flourishes.
The film employs cutting-edge CGI to bring its universe to life, with over 2,700 visual effects shots that blend live-action performances with digitally-rendered alien environments and characters. The diversity of alien species is another triumph of creativity, showcasing Besson’s commitment to honoring the comic’s legacy while pushing it into new cinematic territory.
Themes and Messages
Beneath its dazzling visuals, Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets explores timely themes such as the importance of unity in diversity, the consequences of imperialism, and the moral complexities of power. The Pearls, who embody harmony and a deep connection with their environment, stand as a poignant reminder of the fragility of peace in the face of greed and corruption. Valerian and Laureline’s journey also emphasizes the value of teamwork, trust, and empathy in overcoming adversities.
Performances and Reception
Dane DeHaan and Cara Delevingne bring a youthful energy to their roles, with their banter and chemistry forming the emotional core of the film. While some critics found their performances uneven, their dynamic as a bickering yet devoted team adds a touch of humor and humanity to the narrative. The supporting cast, including Clive Owen, Ethan Hawke, and Rihanna as the shape-shifting entertainer Bubble, adds further depth and flair.
Despite its ambitious vision, Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets received mixed reviews upon its release. While praised for its visual spectacle and creativity, critics noted its occasionally convoluted plot and uneven pacing. However, the film has since garnered a cult following, appreciated for its bold ambition and as a love letter to the sci-fi genre.
Legacy and Influence
Although not a box office juggernaut, Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets remains a testament to Luc Besson’s passion for pushing cinematic boundaries. It brings to life a universe rich with wonder and imagination, celebrating the power of collaboration and understanding in an increasingly interconnected world. Fans of visually striking and ambitious science fiction continue to find joy in revisiting this colorful and innovative adventure.
In the end, Valerian may not have redefined the sci-fi genre, but it carved out its own unique space within it, inspiring audiences to dream bigger and look beyond the stars.
