Léon: The Professional is a 1994 action-thriller movie directed by Luc Besson. It is a French film that tells the story of a hitman named Léon, played by Jean Reno, who forms an unlikely relationship with a young girl named Mathilda, played by Natalie Portman. The movie was praised for its unique portrayal of a relationship between a hitman and a child, and it has become a cult classic.
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Themes
The movie touches on several themes, including the relationship between a hitman and his victim, the concept of redemption, and the consequences of violence. Léon’s character is portrayed as a cold-blooded killer, but as the story progresses, the audience sees a more human side to him. His relationship with Mathilda is one of the central themes of the movie, and it is portrayed in a way that challenges the viewer’s preconceived notions about the morality of such a relationship.
Another significant theme in the movie is the concept of redemption. Léon’s relationship with Mathilda causes him to question his career as a hitman and contemplate his own mortality. Mathilda’s character is also seeking redemption for the loss of her family, and the two characters find solace in each other’s company. The movie portrays the idea that redemption is possible, even in the darkest of circumstances.
Characters
The characters in Léon: The Professional are complex and well-developed. Léon’s character is portrayed as a stoic, unfeeling hitman, but as the story progresses, the audience sees glimpses of his humanity. Mathilda’s character is a young girl who is forced to grow up too quickly, and her relationship with Léon provides her with a sense of protection and guidance.
The villain of the movie, Stansfield, played by Gary Oldman, is a corrupt and sadistic DEA agent. Stansfield’s character provides a sharp contrast to Léon’s character, and his brutality serves to emphasize the more humane aspects of Léon’s personality.
Legacy
Léon: The Professional has had a significant impact on the movie industry and popular culture. The movie’s portrayal of a hitman and a child forming a relationship challenged traditional ideas about morality in movies. The movie has become a cult classic and has inspired several movies and TV shows.
The movie also had a significant impact on the careers of the actors involved. Natalie Portman’s performance as Mathilda was widely praised, and it launched her career as an actress. Jean Reno’s portrayal of Léon was also highly regarded, and it solidified his position as a leading actor in the movie industry.
Conclusion
Léon: The Professional is a unique and thought-provoking movie that challenges traditional ideas about morality in movies. The movie’s themes of redemption, violence, and the relationship between a hitman and his victim are portrayed in a way that is both complex and accessible to the audience. The characters in the movie are well-developed and provide a depth of emotion that is rarely seen in action-thriller movies. The movie’s legacy is evident in its impact on the movie industry and popular culture, and it will continue to be a classic for years to come.
