Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets is a 2017 space opera film written and directed by Luc Besson.
based on the French comic series Valérian and Laureline by Pierre Christin and Jean-Claude Mézières. The film stars Dane DeHaan as Major Valerian and Cara Delevingne as Sergeant Laureline, who are special operatives tasked with maintaining order throughout the universe. Their mission leads them to Alpha, a vast intergalactic city where diverse species from across the cosmos converge. However, they soon discover a dark force threatening the peace of this metropolis, compelling them to race against time to protect not only Alpha but the future of the universe.
The film features a notable cast, including Clive Owen, Rihanna, Ethan Hawke, Herbie Hancock, and Kris Wu. With a production budget of approximately $223 million, it became the most expensive European and independent film ever made. Despite its high production values and stunning visual effects, the film received mixed reviews from critics. While many praised its visual spectacle and creativity, they criticized its plot and some casting choices.
Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets was released in various countries starting in July 2017, with a wide release in the United States on July 21, 2017. It grossed around $225 million worldwide but was considered a box-office bomb due to its substantial production and marketing costs. The film's soundtrack, composed by Alexandre Desplat, was released simultaneously with the film and features a total duration that matches the film's runtime of 137 minutes.
Overall, while Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets aimed to deliver a grand sci-fi adventure, its execution left some audiences divided, highlighting the challenges of adapting beloved source material into a cinematic experience.