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“Valerian” Misfires on a Number of Levels A sprawling space opera that looks good but misses the components of a good story

“Valerian” Misfires on a Number of Levels A sprawling space opera that looks good but misses the components of a good story

July 23, 2017 By Noah Richman and Daren Gulsvig Leave a Comment

Noah and Daren are huge comic book fans and have been looking forward to this film for a long time, despite not being familiar with the original comic.

But the lack of chemistry between the main characters and the dialogue falling flat adversely affected the enjoyment of the visually stunning parts of the film.

Noah – 3.5 stars, Daren – 2.5 stars


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.

Cast: Dane DeHaan, Cara Delevigne, Clive Owen with Rihanna, Ethan Hawke, Herbie Hancock, Kris Wu, and Rutger Hauer
Directed by: Luc Besson
Screenplay by: Luc Besson
Based on Valérian and Laureline by Pierre Christin & Jean-Claude Mézières

Valerian and the City of A Thousand Planets
3

Summary

Noah and Daren are huge comic book fans and have been looking forward to this film for a long time, despite not being familiar with the original comic.

But the lack of chemistry between the main characters and the dialogue falling flat adversely affected the enjoyment of the visually stunning parts of the film.

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Filed Under: Film Reviews

About Noah Richman

Noah Richman is President of the Phoenix Fantasy Film Society, the longest running group dedicated to sci-fi/fantasy movie fandom in the Phoenix area. An avid board gamer, he has also amassed a library of immersive sci-fi/fantasy themed strategy games. A life-long film buff, Noah enjoys film commentary and criticism and has been having a blast writing and recording film reviews for the Slice of SciFi website.

About Daren Gulsvig

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