Next summer, “Valerian And The City Of A Thousand Planets” will be able to lay claim to at least one thing — it will be the most Luc Besson-y blockbuster in theaters all season. The director behind “The Fifth Element” and “Lucy” returns to sci-fi, though as his most recent efforts have indication, results could wildly vary. But hopes are high that he’s struck on a winning formula, because when Besson is in top form, there are few who do it better than him.
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Much like “The Fifth Element” before — and perhaps even more so — the director has lined up an…eclectic…cast including Dane DeHaan, Cara Delevingne, Clive Owen, Rihanna (ok), Ethan Hawke, John Goodman, and Herbie Hancock (wait, what?). And the story is certainly epic — here’s the official synopsis:
Rooted in the classic graphic novel series, Valerian and Laureline- visionary writer/director Luc Besson advances this iconic source material into a contemporary, unique and epic science fiction saga.
Valerian (Dane DeHaan) and Laureline (Cara Delevingne) are special operatives for the government of the human territories charged with maintaining order throughout the universe. Valerian has more in mind than a professional relationship with his partner- blatantly chasing after her with propositions of romance. But his extensive history with women, and her traditional values, drive Laureline to continuously rebuff him.
Under directive from their Commander (Clive Owen), Valerian and Laureline embark on a mission to the breathtaking intergalactic city of Alpha, an ever-expanding metropolis comprised of thousands of different species from all four corners of the universe. Alpha’s seventeen million inhabitants have converged over time- uniting their talents, technology and resources for the betterment of all. Unfortunately, not everyone on Alpha shares in these same objectives; in fact, unseen forces are at work, placing our race in great danger.
“Valerian And The City Of A Thousand Planets” opens on July 21, 2017. Check out some new images and a poster below.