Detailed Summary
Introduction: The Foundation of Alpha
The movie opens with the formation of “Alpha,” the city of a thousand planets, a massive space station that has evolved over centuries. Initially launched by humans, it gradually welcomes various alien species, becoming a vibrant hub of culture and knowledge from across the universe. This introductory scene, set to David Bowie’s “Space Oddity,” immediately sets a tone of optimism and unity.
Valerian and Laureline’s First Mission
Valerian (Dane DeHaan) and Laureline (Cara Delevingne) are two space-and-time-traveling special agents tasked with maintaining peace and order across the universe. Their mission begins on a futuristic planet where they must recover a rare creature called the “Converter,” a species that can replicate anything it consumes.
This mission introduces us to the movie’s blend of action, sci-fi elements, and humor, along with Valerian’s growing affection for Laureline, despite her constant resistance to his romantic advances.
The Fall of Mül and the Mysterious Pearl People
In a visually stunning flashback sequence, we witness the peaceful, pearl-like aliens from the planet Mül. Their serene existence is destroyed by a catastrophic event, seemingly caused by an intergalactic war. A young princess of the species sends out a psychic distress signal just before she dies.
This event sets the stage for the movie’s central mystery: who are these people, what happened to them, and how are they connected to Valerian’s strange visions?
The Intrigue at Alpha
Valerian and Laureline’s main mission takes them to Alpha, where they discover that a dangerous force is threatening the city. The Commander (played by Clive Owen) is intent on wiping out this threat, though his motives remain suspicious.
As they navigate through Alpha’s diverse districts, Valerian and Laureline encounter various challenges—from quirky alien merchants to enormous aquatic creatures. Along the way, the film treats us to Besson’s signature vibrant and creative world-building.
The Truth Behind the Destruction of Mül
Through their investigation, Valerian and Laureline uncover the truth about the destruction of the planet Mül. They discover that the Commander was responsible for the destruction, attempting to cover up his war crimes. The survivors of Mül have been living in secret, attempting to rebuild their civilization.
This revelation sets the stage for the climactic confrontation between the agents and the Commander, raising themes of justice, guilt, and redemption.
Movie Ending
In the final act, Valerian and Laureline face off against the Commander, who tries to destroy the remaining survivors of Mül to cover up his role in their planet’s destruction. With their help, the Pearl people retrieve the Converter and are able to restore their planet’s ecosystem. Valerian and Laureline, having saved the city, share a moment where their relationship finally seems to be moving forward.
Are There Post-Credits Scenes?
No post-credits scene appears in the film, leaving its conclusion open-ended but also complete in its own right.
Type of Movie
Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets is a sci-fi space opera with elements of action, adventure, and fantasy. It combines a love story, mystery, and high-energy action sequences in a sprawling intergalactic setting.
Cast
- Dane DeHaan as Valerian
- Cara Delevingne as Laureline
- Clive Owen as Commander Arün Filitt
- Rihanna as Bubble
- Ethan Hawke as Jolly the Pimp
- Kris Wu as Captain Neza
- Rutger Hauer as President of the World State Federation
Film Music and Composer
The film’s score was composed by Alexandre Desplat, a renowned composer who has worked on numerous high-profile films. The score mixes orchestral elements with more modern, electronic vibes, matching the movie’s futuristic tone. The soundtrack also features notable songs like David Bowie’s “Space Oddity.”
Filming Locations
The movie was primarily filmed at Cité du Cinéma in Paris, France. This studio provided the necessary space for creating the vast intergalactic sets. The futuristic cityscapes and alien worlds are almost entirely created using green screen and CGI, making the location less of a geographical landmark and more of a digital playground for Besson’s vision.
Awards and Nominations
Despite its groundbreaking visuals, Valerian didn’t take home major awards. However, it did receive nominations in categories like Best Visual Effects and Best Production Design, primarily at technical awards shows like the Visual Effects Society Awards.
Behind the Scenes Insights
- Luc Besson had been a fan of the original Valérian comics since childhood.
- Over 2,000 costumes were created for the movie, making it one of the most extensive costume productions ever.
- Rihanna’s character Bubble was one of the most technically complex CGI creations in the film.
- The film’s visual effects team worked with designers from various sci-fi movies, such as Avatar.
Inspirations and References
The movie is based on the French comic series Valérian and Laureline, written by Pierre Christin and illustrated by Jean-Claude Mézières. Besson has cited this comic as a major inspiration, along with his love for Star Wars and classic French sci-fi.
Alternate Endings and Deleted Scenes
Though no alternate endings were revealed, several scenes were cut to enhance the movie’s pacing. One of these cuts included an extended version of Bubble’s backstory, which was shortened to maintain a faster rhythm throughout the film.
Book Adaptations and Differences
The movie follows the general plotlines of the Valérian and Laureline comic but diverges significantly in terms of tone and style. The comic has a more light-hearted and episodic nature, while the film attempts to create a grand, unified storyline with emotional stakes.
Memorable Scenes and Quotes
Key Scenes
- The market scene where Valerian uses augmented reality to navigate a parallel dimension.
- Laureline rescuing Valerian from a monstrous aquatic creature.
- Bubble’s shape-shifting performance for Valerian.
Iconic Quotes
- Valerian: “I’m not a hero, Laureline. I’m just doing my job.”
- Laureline: “You flirt with anything that moves.”
- Bubble: “Life’s a stage. And I play all the parts.”
Easter Eggs and Hidden Details
- The design of the city of Alpha includes nods to Star Wars and other sci-fi classics.
- The number “451” seen in various places is a reference to Fahrenheit 451, a novel by Ray Bradbury.
- The film includes a cameo from director Herbie Hancock, who appears as the Defense Minister.
Trivia
- Luc Besson wrote a 600-page “bible” detailing the history and ecosystem of every species in Alpha.
- Cara Delevingne learned basic stunt work and martial arts for her role.
- The film holds the record for the most visual effects shots in a European production.
Why Watch?
This film is perfect for fans of visual spectacle and imaginative world-building. If you’re looking for a movie that offers a wild intergalactic adventure with eye-popping visuals and unique alien species, Valerian delivers.
Director’s Other Movies
Recommended Films for Fans
- Guardians of the Galaxy (2014)
- Star Wars: The Last Jedi (2017)
- Avatar (2009)
- Jupiter Ascending (2015)
