Is Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (2017)

The Narrative Arc & Core Premise

Debuting in 2017, Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets represents a sophisticated intersection of artistic ambition and genre-defining elements within the Adventure, Science Fiction, Action category. The primary thematic concern of the film is an investigation into In the 28th century, Valerian and Laureline are special operatives charged with keeping order throughout the human territories. As the story unfolds, we are introduced to a world where the traditional boundaries of Adventure, Science Fiction, Action are tested.

The screenplay takes its time to establish the stakes, ensuring that every character motivation is grounded in a psychological reality. The synopsis only hints at the depth: "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 to Alpha, an ever-expanding metropolis where species from across the universe have converged over centuries to share knowledge, intelligence, and cultures. At the center of Alpha is a mysterious dark force which threatens the peaceful existence of the City of a Thousand Planets, and Valerian and Laureline must race to identify the menace and safeguard not just Alpha, but the future of the universe."

Artistic Execution & Performance Study

A film's resonance is often dictated by the strength of its execution, both in front of and behind the camera. While the script occasionally leans into familiar territory, the efforts of Dane DeHaan ensure that the emotional beats of Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets always land with sufficient weight. Dane DeHaan provides a steady, reliable performance that anchors the film through its narrative shifts.

The direction by Luc Besson is marked by a steady and professional hand. From a production standpoint, the film meets the high standards of modern industrial filmmaking. The sets are well-crafted, and the visual effects are integrated with a level of polish that ensures the viewer matches the director's intended level of immersion. While perhaps not groundbreaking, the execution is flawless. The pacing, over its 137 minute runtime, allows the audience to fully inhabit the space the director has created, making the eventual resolution feel deeply earned.

Critical Assessment: Why You Should Watch

Is Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets truly worth your investment of time and attention? In an era of disposable content, this film makes a strong case for its existence. If you are a connoisseur of Adventure, Science Fiction, Action, then this is a highly recommended entry that delivers on its promises while offering a few surprises along the way.

The film's ability to perfectly execute its genre requirements is why it has earned its 6.6/10 score. It speaks to a global audience while maintaining a distinct and unique voice, a balance that is notoriously difficult to achieve in the modern marketplace.

Philosophical Subtext & Directorial Vision

At a deeper level, Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets explores the dichotomy of strength and vulnerability. The 2017 audience is increasingly sophisticated, and Luc Besson respects this by refusing to provide easy answers to the story's complex questions.

The philosophical underpinnings of the second and third acts suggest a narrative that is interested in more than just entertainment. It is an exploration of what it means to be human in an increasingly complex world.

Final Editorial Recommendation

Ultimately, Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets serves as a reliable piece of entertainment that will satisfy core fans while providing a solid entry point for new viewers. Whether you are drawn to it by the star power of Dane DeHaan or the critical acclaim surrounding its release, Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets is a film that demands to be seen on the largest screen possible.