Luc Besson has responded to Natalie Portman's criticism of his 1994 crime-thriller classic, Leon: The Professional. The movie stars Jean Reno as the titular assassin and a young Portman in her feature film debut. The plot follows a young girl taken in by Leon after her family is murdered by a corrupt DEA agent.
Portman recently referred to the film as 'cringey' and expressed a 'complicated relationship' with it. Besson defended the movie, stating that people's perspectives on entertainment can evolve as they grow older.
Besson highlighted how personal experiences shape one's views over time. He emphasized the importance of adapting to societal changes and acknowledged that values and morals evolve with time.
The director's comments reflect the dynamic nature of societal norms and how they influence the perception of art. Besson's upbringing and life experiences likely influenced his filmmaking style and choices.
As society progresses, certain movies may be reevaluated in light of modern values. The #MeToo movement has prompted a reassessment of past works, leading to a shift in perspectives, as seen in Portman's evolving views on Leon: The Professional.
Cinema serves as a platform to explore social issues, with films often reflecting the era in which they were created. Besson's canceled sequel to Leon and the controversial subject matter make a reboot unlikely in the current climate.
Leon: The Professional remains a significant film in Besson's filmography, exploring complex themes and relationships. The movie's impact continues to spark discussions on art, society, and evolving values.
