Exploring Luc Besson’s Valerian: A Sci-Fi Spectacle of Epic Proportions

In today’s episode of Pat's Film Club, we venture into the visually stunning and ambitious world of Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets (2017), directed by Luc Besson. Based on the beloved French comic book series Valérian and Laureline, this film transports viewers to the 28th century, where special operatives Valerian and Laureline must navigate a web of intrigue to protect the intergalactic metropolis of Alpha.

Pat Kelman explores Besson’s passion for the source material, his visionary use of CGI, and the film’s stunning world-building. As a fan of Besson’s earlier works like The Fifth Element and Leon, Pat delves into how Valerian serves as a spiritual successor to these films, pushing the boundaries of sci-fi cinema.

Key Points Discussed:

• [00:01:13] Introduction to Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets.
• [00:02:10] Luc Besson’s cinematic style and his lifelong dream of adapting Valérian and Laureline.
• [00:02:43] The breathtaking opening sequence showcasing the evolution of Alpha.
• [00:03:17] The complex and visually stunning marketplace scene on the planet Kiri.
• [00:04:33] The film's place within Besson’s filmography and its connection to his earlier works.

Special Mentions:

• Besson’s career and his influence on the sci-fi genre, including his controversial personal life.
• The significant role of EuropaCorp, the studio co-founded by Besson, in bringing Valerian to life.
• Upcoming events and screenings, including Wes Craven's The Hills Have Eyes.

Call to Action:

• Don’t miss Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets airing on Film4 at 6:20 p.m.!
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Upcoming Screenings:

• Wes Craven's 1977 grindhouse classic The Hills Have Eyes – check our website for dates and venues.

Music Credits:

• Theme tune composed by Modern Music, licensed via Pixabay.com