In a world where time is a commodity and time travel is a reality, Luc Besson’s film “Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets” takes audiences on a mind-bending adventure. Released in 2017, this science fiction spectacle introduces Valerian and Laureline, two special operatives tasked with maintaining order throughout the universe. However, it is the film’s unique ability to bend and manipulate time that truly captivates its viewers.
Valerian, played by actor Dane DeHaan, possesses an extraordinary gift known as “temporal manipulation.” This power allows him to alter time in various ways, from slowing it down to speeding it up. With this ability, Valerian is able to navigate treacherous situations, outsmart his enemies, and even engage in time travel.
The time-bending power of Valerian is demonstrated early in the film when he and Laureline, portrayed by Cara Delevingne, embark on a mission to retrieve an invaluable artifact. As they encounter obstacles and enemies, Valerian uses his temporal manipulation skills to slow down time, giving him a tactical advantage and allowing him to outmaneuver his foes. This demonstration sets the stage for the remarkable time-bending abilities that Valerian possesses.
One of the most visually stunning scenes in the film showcases Valerian’s power to traverse different dimensions and time periods simultaneously. In this sequence, Valerian enters “The Big Market,” an extraterrestrial marketplace where different dimensions converge. As he navigates through the bustling market, Valerian is able to move between time periods, witnessing past and future events unfolding concurrently. This portrayal of time as a fluid entity, which Valerian can effortlessly manipulate, leaves audiences in awe of the film’s imaginative world-building.
Beyond its entertainment value, the concept of time manipulation presented in “Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets” raises intriguing philosophical questions. It prompts us to wonder about the nature of time itself and our perception of it. If time can be bent and manipulated, does that mean it is not as fixed as we believe it to be? Could time travel be a possibility in our own reality?
The film’s exploration of time also delves into the consequences of tampering with the past or future. It highlights the notion that altering even a single event in history could have far-reaching effects on the entire timeline. This cautionary aspect of time manipulation in the film serves as a reminder of the delicate balance that exists within the fabric of time.
“Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets” presents a novel and visually stunning take on time manipulation in the science fiction genre. Through Valerian’s unique abilities, the film challenges our understanding of time, presenting a world where this fundamental force is malleable and controllable. With its immersive visuals and thought-provoking concepts, the movie invites audiences to contemplate the mysteries and possibilities of time travel.
In conclusion, the time-bending power of Valerian in Luc Besson’s film “Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets” is a captivating and mesmerizing concept. From its enthralling action sequences to its philosophical exploration of time, the movie draws audiences into a world where time is fluid and subject to manipulation. As we watch Valerian navigate through different dimensions and time periods, we marvel at the boundless potential and consequences associated with the ability to bend time.