1. Plot Summary
In the 28th century, Major Valerian (Dane DeHaan) and Sergeant Laureline (Cara Delevingne), special operatives for the human government, are tasked with maintaining peace across the galaxy. They are sent on a mission to Alpha, a massive intergalactic metropolis where species from across the universe coexist and share knowledge.
When a mysterious threat endangers Alpha, Valerian and Laureline uncover a hidden conspiracy tied to the destruction of the peaceful planet Mül. Their mission leads them through dazzling alien worlds, bizarre creatures, and high-stakes chases, as they fight to save both Alpha and an entire civilization.
2. Notable Elements
Strengths:
- Visual spectacle: Stunning CGI, imaginative alien designs, and breathtaking world-building.
- Creative universe: Based on the French comic Valérian and Laureline, it offers a vast, colorful sci-fi playground.
- Memorable sequences: The “Big Market” multi-dimensional chase scene and Rihanna’s shape-shifting Bubble stand out.
- Diversity of aliens: Truly lives up to the idea of “a thousand planets.”
Weaknesses:
- Weak script: Dialogue is often clunky and lacks emotional punch.
- Chemistry issues: DeHaan and Delevingne struggle to convince as a romantic duo.
- Uneven pacing: Some side quests distract from the main story.
- Style over substance: The visuals often overshadow character and narrative depth.
3. Themes and Messages
- Unity in diversity: Alpha is a metaphor for cooperation among species, cultures, and nations.
- Colonialism and guilt: The tragedy of Mül reflects themes of exploitation, destruction, and suppressed truth.
- Love and trust: The push-and-pull between Valerian and Laureline represents loyalty, partnership, and vulnerability.
- The cost of secrets: Hidden truths, once revealed, reshape both personal and political destinies.
4. Personal Impressions
What worked well:
- The visual imagination is unmatched — Luc Besson creates a sci-fi world as rich as Star Wars or Avatar.
- Rihanna’s performance as Bubble is surprisingly emotional and memorable.
- The film captures a sense of childlike wonder and adventure.
What fell flat:
- The romance subplot feels forced and underdeveloped.
- The leads lack the gravitas to carry such a massive story.
- The central mystery is predictable compared to the dazzling visuals around it.
5. Audience Recommendations
You’ll enjoy this if:
- You love visually ambitious sci-fi like Avatar, The Fifth Element, or Guardians of the Galaxy.
- You appreciate detailed alien species, cultures, and interplanetary politics.
- You’re looking for a sensory spectacle, not a deep drama.
You might skip if:
- You want strong character development and chemistry.
- You dislike CGI-heavy storytelling.
- You prefer tight, focused narratives over sprawling adventures.
6. Conclusion & Rating
Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets is a bold, visually stunning space opera that dazzles the eyes but struggles with heart and storytelling. Despite its flaws, it’s a unique and ambitious entry in modern sci-fi cinema.
Star Rating: ★★★☆☆ (3/5)
