A boy, bruised by life, finds his salvation through the love of his dogs.
A boy, bruised by life, finds his salvation through the love of his dogs.
In the 28th century, Valerian and Laureline are special operatives charged with keeping order throughout the human territories. On assignment from the Minister of Defense, the two undertake a mission […]
An adventure set in the early part of the 20th century, focused on a popular novelist and her dealings with would-be suitors, the cops, monsters, and other distractions. The Extraordinary […]
Two men answer the call of the ocean in this romantic fantasy-adventure. Jacques and Enzo are a pair of friends who have been close since childhood, and who share a […]
A woman, accidentally caught in a dark deal, turns the tables on her captors and transforms into a merciless warrior evolved beyond human logic.
In 2257, a taxi driver is unintentionally given the task of saving a young girl who is part of the key that will ensure the survival of humanity.
A beautiful felon, sentenced to life in prison for the murder of a policeman, is given a second chance – as a secret political assassin controlled by the government.
Léon, the top hit man in New York, has earned a rep as an effective “cleaner”. But when his next-door neighbors are wiped out by a loose-cannon DEA agent, he […]
Arthur is a spirited ten-year old whose parents are away looking for work, whose eccentric grandfather has been missing for several years, and who lives with his grandmother in a […]
A beautiful and mysterious woman helps an inept scam artist get his game together… but is their meeting purely coincidence?
Luc Besson: The Visionary of Stylish and Kinetic Cinema
Luc Besson is one of France’s most influential and controversial filmmakers, known for his distinctive visual style, dynamic action sequences, and ability to blur the lines between art-house cinema and mainstream blockbuster entertainment. From iconic films like Léon: The Professional (1994) and The Fifth Element (1997) to his role as a producer of high-octane franchises such as Taken (2008), Besson has left an indelible mark on both European and global cinema.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Born on March 18, 1959, in Paris, France, Besson spent much of his childhood in various Mediterranean locations, including Greece and Yugoslavia, due to his parents’ work as diving instructors. His early passion for the underwater world influenced his first major film, The Big Blue (1988). Initially aspiring to be a marine biologist, a diving accident at 17 ended that dream, leading Besson to pursue filmmaking instead.
After returning to Paris, Besson worked as an assistant director on several low-budget films, gaining valuable experience. In 1983, he directed his debut feature, Le Dernier Combat (The Last Battle), a dialogue-free, post-apocalyptic tale that showcased his innovative approach to storytelling and visual flair.
Breakthrough and the Cinema du Look Movement
Besson became a central figure in the 1980s “Cinema du Look” movement, characterized by stylized visuals, youthful protagonists, and an emphasis on spectacle over narrative realism. His 1985 film Subway, a kinetic blend of crime drama and romance set in the Paris Metro, epitomized this aesthetic. Starring Christopher Lambert and Isabelle Adjani, the film earned critical acclaim and established Besson as a director to watch.
Key Films and Artistic Style
Léon: The Professional (1994)
One of Besson’s most celebrated films, Léon: The Professional is an emotionally charged action-drama about the unlikely bond between a hitman (Jean Reno) and a young girl (Natalie Portman in her breakout role). The film blends gritty urban storytelling with tender character moments, creating a modern classic that continues to captivate audiences.
The Fifth Element (1997)
Besson’s most ambitious project to date, The Fifth Element is a visually stunning sci-fi epic starring Bruce Willis, Milla Jovovich, and Gary Oldman. Set in a vividly imagined future, the film combines action, humor, and romance with dazzling production design. Its bold, colorful aesthetic and eccentric characters have made it a cult favorite.
La Femme Nikita (1990)
This stylish action-thriller about a criminal turned government assassin helped redefine the genre, introducing a strong, complex female protagonist. La Femme Nikita inspired a U.S. remake (Point of No Return) and multiple television adaptations, cementing its cultural legacy.
The Big Blue (1988)
A visually poetic exploration of competitive free diving, The Big Blue is a deeply personal film that reflects Besson’s childhood fascination with the ocean. While initially divisive among critics, the film became a massive box-office success in France and gained a devoted following worldwide.
As a Producer and Writer
In addition to his directing work, Besson has had a significant impact as a producer and writer, often supporting action-driven films with international appeal. Through his production company, EuropaCorp, Besson has been involved in creating hit franchises such as:
Taken (2008-2014): The Liam Neeson-starring series redefined action cinema with its intense pacing and “particular set of skills” ethos.
The Transporter (2002-2008): A stylish action series starring Jason Statham, blending martial arts and vehicular stunts.
Lucy (2014): Directed by Besson, this sci-fi thriller starring Scarlett Johansson became a global success, further showcasing his knack for high-concept storytelling.
Themes and Visual Style
Besson’s films often explore themes of redemption, the clash between innocence and violence, and the resilience of outsiders. His protagonists—whether a hitman, an assassin, or a futuristic savior—are frequently loners who find purpose through unexpected connections.
Visually, Besson is known for his kinetic camera work, bold use of color, and meticulous attention to production design. His films are marked by a mix of European sophistication and Hollywood spectacle, creating a unique blend that appeals to diverse audiences.
Challenges and Controversies
While Besson has enjoyed immense success, his career has not been without controversy. Some critics have accused his films of prioritizing style over substance, and EuropaCorp has faced financial difficulties in recent years, including a significant downturn following the release of Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets (2017). Additionally, Besson has faced legal challenges and accusations that have cast a shadow over his career.
Legacy
Despite the ups and downs, Luc Besson’s contributions to cinema are undeniable. His innovative approach to genre filmmaking has influenced countless directors, and his ability to blend art-house aesthetics with mainstream appeal has reshaped the global perception of European cinema. Films like Léon and The Fifth Element remain enduring classics, testaments to his vision and creativity.
Conclusion
Luc Besson is a filmmaker who thrives on bold ideas and ambitious storytelling. His films, marked by their visual inventiveness and emotional depth, have left an indelible mark on the world of cinema. Whether captivating audiences with heartfelt dramas or high-octane action, Besson’s work continues to inspire and entertain, ensuring his place as one of the most distinctive voices in contemporary film.