“Valerian and the City of a Thousand planers” is a work of science fiction, released in the year of 2017, directed and written by the film artist Luc Besson. It is based on the French comic, Valerian and Laureline, which was pioneered by Pierre Christin and Jean-Claude Mézières. This film is an attempt to bridge imagination and with innovation. This is evident in the sophisticated storytelling showcased in the film, the stunning visuals, and the detailed world construction. The film aims to place its audience in a world where cooperation, a rich culture, and an urge to explore defines the essence of the world.
This magnificent work of art is encapsulated with and special effects, carried by its lead actors Dane DeHaan and Cara Delevingne. The film attempts to tackle difficult and sensitive themes such as the moral issues of alien life forms, technological advancements, and the need for mutual understanding and peace. Although, the film is known pretty well for its special effects, there are abundant pieces of deep meanings within the film.
Plot Summary
The centerpiece for the intergalactic cooperation is a space settlement that expands as far as the eye can see, noted by the phrase ‘City of a Thousand Planets’. This has been referred to as ‘Alpha’. Living in the 28th century, mankind was capable of breaching the exosphere and fostering relationships with alien beings. The tangible implications of such a reality are the ideals of sharing culture, technology and knowledge with other forms of life. This is beautifully symbolized by the space station Alpha as it is a melting pot for an abundant number of species who engage in active cooperation.
The movie centers around Valerian (Dane DeHaan) and Laureline (Cara Delevingne), two ace agents employed by the human government with the objective of keeping peace and order across the galaxy. They display courage and intricate partnerships with camaraderie along with a pinch of romantic tension. As a couple, they’re famous worldwide.
Like on any other assignment, they paired up to visit the enormous virtual marketplace known as the Big Market and captured a rare and unique alien dubbed a Converter, which can replicate anything it eats. The alien in question belonged to a tranquil extraterrestrial civilization known as the Pearls, who occupied the now-destroyed Mül Planet Paradise and are now shrouded in mystery.
The two characters get along well with each other. After completing the mission, Laureline and Valerian receive orders to Alpha. Commander Arün Filitt (Clive Owen) there reveals to them the latest threat intel: an unidentified entity is breaching the city’s core. The area once teemed with activity, but it is now a desolate wasteland, and the secrets hidden underneath are a complete mystery.
Through probing, Valerian and Laureline find and uncover a disturbing revelation.. The Pearl folk, thought to be extinct, have survived and are now seeking retribution for the devastation to their world. Their presence in Alpha directly contravenes the officially sanctioned history, and raises ethical questions regarding the boundaries of military secrecy, the responsibilities of leaders, and the cost of development.
In the course of the novel, Valerian and Laureline tackle more than one complexity, which includes solving political dilemmas, negotiating alien customs, and dealing with disloyal and mean-spirited people. They are willing to reach out to the the powerful and the the people, for peace, and are admired for their courage and understanding.
Principal Characters
Major Valerian (Dane DeHaan) – One of the most competent and intrepid space agents whose valor and allegiance to the mission sometimes comes in the way of rationality. Valerian’s journey in this case is the realization that understanding is more than listening to orders and understanding is the greater virtue.
Sergeant Laureline (Cara Delevingne) – The unapologetically matchless wife of Valerian who embodies a person of intellectual acumen and is full of tenacity and grit. With brazen valor and charity, the pair is often pulled out of the most difficult quandaries.
Commander Arün Filitt (Clive Owen) – A person of great esteem fulfills the role of a high ranking military officer in Alpha and whose deeds in previously accomplished missions are pivotal in the unfolding conflict of the narrative.
Bubble (Rihanna) – As a somewhat mentioned the performer takes the time to engage with Valerian which helps to explain to the protagonist the basic elements of kindness and the virtue of sacrifice and how to engage in it in every day life.
Pearl Princess and the Pearl People – Inhabitants of the planet Mül who’s story serves as the primary emotional focal point of the film while exemplifying the tragic effects of injustice committed against them with a soothing and serene disposition.
Themes
- Unity Through Diversity
What Alpha proves is the end result of mutual respect and consideration of the collaboration of different cultures and species. The movie conveys that dominating others as the form of achieving mutual progress is not correct.
- Truth and Accountability
The plot reveals actions from the past for which the powerful and the powerful decision makers are culpable of. It examines having the initiative to for the sake of achievement and progress and asks what are the consequences of doing so.
- Peace Over Conflict
The story is built with an element of suspense and danger albeit the primary form of resolving the issues that are being raised in the story is not through violence. The narrative advocates for resolving issues through peaceful and respectful means.
- Courage and Leadership
Valerian’s character in the story is shown to have an arc which develops in the direction of doing what is difficult as opposed to doing what is convenient while Laureline on the other hand is a character who is shown to exercise numerous acts of reasoning and emotional courage. The two character’s actions embody the two main forms of leadership that is appreciated in the society which is power and wisdom.
- Cultural and Environmental Considerations
Mül’s destruction represents an absence of natural beauty and indigenous cultures due to thoughtless progress. The movie advocates for both environmental and cultural preservation, albeit covertly.
Visual Style and Cinematic Techniques
Besson is a prominent filmmaker and with Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets, he does not disappoint. The movie is spectacular and bursting with colorful alien worlds, over-crowded markets, underwater empires, and futuristic towns. The CGI combined with the artistic direction evokes a profound sense of awe and magnitude.
The design of Alpha is a marvel of creativity, as different alien cultures and technologies are combined in different segments. From Mül’s serene beaches to the electrifying Big Market, the viewers are submerged in an inexhaustible imaginative universe.
The movie also demonstrates the ability to combine humor, emotion and suspense, keeping the narrative alive without undue strain. It remains positive and adventurous throughout which is a boon for viewers of all ages.
Performances
DeHaan displays youthful exuberance in the character Valerian by balancing a confident demeanor and equally reflective approach. Delevingne’s Laureline is a powerful performance filled with equally poignant compassion. Their tangible chemistry nurtures the emotional core of the narrative.
Their chemistry nurtures the emotional core of the narrative. Clive Owen’s performance as Commander Filitt captures the intensity of the character in a sustained and restrained manner. During her brief turn as Bubble, Rihanna displays a tender dash of vulnerability while offering a glimpse of hope. The richly designed alien support characters, performed with intricate motion capture, enhance the visual tapestry of the film.
Conclusion
Beyond a beautiful visual experience, Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets offers a narrative filled with compassion, unity, and honesty. The far-flung future teeming with technology and exotic life forms is a backdrop for the film’s insightful reflection on humanity’s past and the cooperation needed to form a future worthy of respect.
Although many will rave about the special effects and scenery, the heart of the film is what truly stands out. The act of kindness in the center of conflict is neglected in most displays of bravery. The film serves as a gentle reminder of the importance of listening and understanding before action is taken.
In case you are passionate about space adventures packed with unique characters, strong themes, and stunning artistry, then you will find pleasure in Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets as it provides an exciting and uplifting journey through the galaxies.
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