Léon: The Professional- Review

It has taken me such a long time to actually purchase this film on DVD and give it the time of day it deserves. I'm embarrassed to say that I procrastinated but am very glad that I sat down with it today. In Luc Besson's most notable film, he brings to life three (along with many others) strong and important characters all with different life directions but the same end goal.

First off, I want to say that this film should be appreciated more for it's character developments, writing and themes rather than the aesthetic. The reason I say this is due to the Tumblr community bringing this film to light but looking no further than the appearance. This film is in fact so much more than just a pretty face.

The casting choices were exceptional and each worked so well in developing their characters and just going that extra mile to avoid any evident flaws. I can't stress the strength and effort put into Mathilda as a character enough. Natalie Portman was eleven years old at the time and for a child, that is such an amazing feat. It isn't easy to pull off a role with dialogue or non-verbal communication seen most commonly in adult roles and it most definitely would have taken every ounce of strength left in her body to do so. With this in mind, I think it's one of the most astounding performances I've seen from a child.

Jean Reno as Léon was the complete opposite. What works well with his personality in contrast to Mathilda's is that he is more reserved, unsympathetic and awkward around physical contact of a good-natured way. This worked well on screen to show the balance between he and Mathilda and showed strength in two different personalities in many different ways.

The idea of the relationship between Léon and Mathilda is not meant to be seen a sexual one, but it most definitely was designed to raise a few eyebrows and create gossip from within the audience. While that might be seen as somewhat disturbing, I think it just further added to the way each character worked together onscreen and strengthening that character bond.

Finally, Gary Oldman as a corrupt DEA. His role was so entertaining in such an odd way. For a man that is supposed to be working for the Federal Government, he's absolutely terrifying in all the wrong ways. It was brilliant to watch the transitions of his character (the pill he swallowed being one of those transition points) and immediately see how the mood and atmosphere shifted around him. Despite it being over the top and in your face, it isn't an overkill.

I really wasn't sure what to expect from this film. I tried to avoid as many opinions online as possible so not to try and diminish any positive expectations I had. However, the other part of me was expecting it be overhyped and maybe even hard to understand. After sitting through this film, I'm very satisfied with the positive reception it has received and am regret-free.

Score: 9/10.