Ranking The Top Five Luc Besson Directed Movies
Hey movie lovers and lovers of just, you know, living! If you're anything like me, your perfect chill-out session involves a comfy couch, maybe some artisanal popcorn (or just a bag of the good old stuff), and a film that just sweeps you away. Today, we're diving headfirst into the vibrant, often wild, and undeniably stylish world of Luc Besson. This French director is known for his visual flair, unforgettable characters, and stories that pack a punch, even when they’re exploring the quieter corners of life. So, grab your favorite beverage, settle in, and let's rank the top five Luc Besson-directed movies that are perfect for your next cinematic escape.
Luc Besson: A Director Who Dares to Dream Big (and Look Amazing Doing It)
Luc Besson. The name itself conjures up images of neon-drenched streets, fearless heroines, and underwater kingdoms. He’s a filmmaker who doesn’t shy away from spectacle, but he also possesses a knack for finding the humanity in even the most extraordinary circumstances. Whether it’s a gritty Parisian thriller or a fantastical journey to another galaxy, Besson’s films have a distinct energy that’s hard to replicate. They’re the kind of movies that spark conversations, inspire your next fashion choice (hello, Milla Jovovich in The Fifth Element!), and maybe even make you reconsider your own perspective on life. Think of him as the cinematic equivalent of a perfectly mixed cocktail – complex, intoxicating, and always leaves you wanting more.
Our Top 5 Luc Besson Masterpieces (According to Our Chill Vibes)
Now, this is a tough call. Besson has a pretty impressive filmography, and what resonates most can be subjective. But we’ve wrangled our favorites, focusing on films that offer that perfect blend of entertainment, artistic merit, and pure, unadulterated Besson magic. These are the ones that feel just right for a relaxed evening, a rainy afternoon, or even a solo viewing to recharge your batteries.
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#5: The Big Blue (1988) - The Deep Dive into Serenity
Let’s kick things off with a film that’s more of a gentle embrace than a high-octane thrill ride: The Big Blue. This is Besson at his most poetic, a visually stunning ode to the ocean and the two men who are drawn to its depths like moths to a flame. Jacques Mayol and Enzo Molinari, played with incredible passion by Jean-Marc Barr and Jean Reno respectively, are free divers who find their true calling in the silent, ethereal world beneath the waves.
What makes The Big Blue so perfect for an easy-going lifestyle? It’s all about escapism. The cinematography is breathtaking – imagine endless shots of azure waters, sun-dappled surfaces, and the profound quiet of the ocean floor. It’s almost meditative. The narrative isn't about conflict in the traditional sense; it's about a deep, personal quest for connection and understanding. It encourages you to slow down, to appreciate the beauty of nature, and to perhaps ponder your own deepest desires.
Fun Fact: The film was shot in various stunning locations, including the Greek islands, the Bahamas, and Peru. You can almost feel the salt spray and the sunshine! For a real treat, try to find the original French version – it’s a bit longer and, many argue, even more profound.
Practical Tip: If The Big Blue inspires you, consider a visit to a local aquarium or even just a quiet walk by a lake or river. Reconnecting with water can be incredibly grounding. And maybe, just maybe, take up some deep breathing exercises. Jacques would approve.
#4: La Femme Nikita (1990) - The Stylish Assassin's Awakening
Alright, so maybe "easy-going" doesn't immediately spring to mind with a story about a young woman turned deadly assassin. But hear us out! La Femme Nikita is a masterclass in cool. Anne Parillaud delivers an iconic performance as the titular Nikita, a troubled young woman who gets a second chance at life – albeit a very dangerous one – through a government black-ops program. She's trained to be a killer, but underneath the tough exterior, there’s a woman struggling to find love and normalcy.
This film is effortlessly stylish. Nikita’s transformation from punk to poised operative is a visual feast. Think sharp suits, sleek weaponry, and a captivating soundtrack that perfectly complements the tension and romance. It’s the kind of film that makes you want to put on your most confident outfit, even if you’re just heading to the grocery store. The blend of action, drama, and a surprisingly poignant love story makes it utterly compelling.
Cultural Reference: Nikita has had a massive impact on pop culture, spawning several remakes and influencing countless other assassin films and TV shows (we’re looking at you, La Femme Nikita TV series and Point of No Return!). It’s a true testament to the power of Besson’s original vision.
Fun Fact: Besson actually directed a sequel, The Dark Angel (1994), but it’s often considered separate due to the departure of the original lead. However, the spirit of Besson’s creation lives on!
Practical Tip: Feeling inspired by Nikita’s reinvention? Use this as a cue for a personal style upgrade. It doesn't have to be drastic – a new haircut, a bold accessory, or even just experimenting with a different makeup look can feel incredibly empowering. And if you feel like learning a new skill, hey, why not try a self-defense class? Just sayin'.
#3: Léon: The Professional (1994) - The Unexpected Guardian Angel
This one is a perennial favorite for a reason. Léon: The Professional is a film that tugs at the heartstrings while delivering adrenaline-pumping action. Jean Reno is magnificent as Léon, a solitary, almost childlike hitman who takes in Mathilda (a breakout Natalie Portman), a young girl whose family is brutally murdered. He teaches her the trade, and in return, she teaches him about love, trust, and what it means to be human.
The chemistry between Reno and Portman is simply electric. It’s a story about found family, about finding light in the darkest of places, and about the moral ambiguities of violence. Besson masterfully balances moments of extreme tension with surprisingly tender and often humorous interactions. The film’s gritty New York setting is brought to life with Besson’s signature visual style, making it feel both real and larger than life.
Cultural Reference: The character of Léon has become an iconic figure in cinema, often referenced and parodied. His simple mantra, "I'm a professional," has entered the lexicon of film buffs everywhere.
Fun Fact: Gary Oldman delivers a terrifyingly unhinged performance as the corrupt DEA agent Stansfield. He’s the kind of villain you love to hate, and his presence adds a palpable sense of danger to the film.
Practical Tip: Léon is a great reminder of the importance of connection and looking out for one another. In your own life, consider reaching out to someone you haven't spoken to in a while, or simply offer a helping hand to a neighbor. Small acts of kindness can have a big impact, just like Léon’s unexpected guardianship.
#2: The Fifth Element (1997) - The Sci-Fi Extravaganza We All Need
Prepare for blast-off! The Fifth Element is pure, unadulterated fun. Besson unleashes his full visual imagination on this sci-fi epic, creating a vibrant, quirky, and utterly unique future. Bruce Willis stars as Korben Dallas, a gruff ex-military taxi driver who gets entangled in a mission to save the world from an impending evil. His path crosses with Leeloo, played with dazzling charm by Milla Jovovich, the "Supreme Being" who holds the key to humanity's salvation.
This movie is a sensory overload in the best possible way. The production design is incredible, from the flying cars of New York to the opulent opera house. The costumes, particularly by Jean-Paul Gaultier, are legendary. And the characters! Gary Oldman as the flamboyant villain Zorg is a masterpiece of over-the-top evil, and Chris Tucker as the flamboyant radio host Ruby Rhod is an absolute scene-stealer. It’s a whirlwind of humor, action, and pure spectacle that’s guaranteed to put a smile on your face.
Cultural Reference: The "Multipass!" is an iconic piece of movie trivia, and Zorg’s bizarre and sinister pronouncements are endlessly quotable. The film’s optimistic, albeit chaotic, vision of the future has left a lasting impression on sci-fi fans.
Fun Fact: Milla Jovovich, who was married to Luc Besson at the time, actually learned to speak an invented language for the film. The language, known as "Elemens," was created by Besson himself!
Practical Tip: The Fifth Element is all about embracing the extraordinary in the everyday. So, next time you’re feeling a bit bored, try injecting some fun into your routine. Maybe wear a bright color, listen to some upbeat music, or just allow yourself to be a little more whimsical. Who knows what adventures await?
#1: Atlantis (2001) - The Animated Gem of Discovery
And at the top of our list, a film that might surprise some, but for those who know, it’s pure magic: Atlantis: The Lost Empire. Besson lent his storytelling genius to this animated Disney adventure, and the result is something truly special. While the film itself is a Disney production, Besson's influence is evident in its bold visual design, its focus on exploration, and its wonderfully unique characters.
The story follows Milo Thatch, a linguist and cartographer obsessed with the legendary lost city of Atlantis. He gets his chance to prove his theories when he joins a team of adventurers on an expedition to find the mythical civilization. What follows is a visually stunning journey, with a distinct art style that feels a bit like a modern take on classic pulp adventure magazines. The world of Atlantis is brought to life with incredible detail and imagination, and the characters are a charming ensemble of quirky scientists and rough-and-tumble explorers.
Cultural Reference: The film’s unique art style, inspired by the work of comic book artist Mike Mignola (of Hellboy fame), gives it a timeless feel. It stands out from other animated films of its era.
Fun Fact: The script for Atlantis: The Lost Empire was originally envisioned as a live-action film before being developed as an animated feature. Imagine the possibilities!
Practical Tip: Atlantis is a fantastic reminder of the thrill of discovery and the pursuit of knowledge. In your daily life, make time for curiosity. Learn something new, explore a local park you’ve never visited, or simply ask "why?" more often. The world is full of hidden wonders, just waiting to be found.
Wrapping Up Our Besson Journey
So there you have it – our top five Luc Besson-directed films, ranked for your easy-going viewing pleasure. Each of these movies offers a unique escape, a splash of creativity, and a touch of that unmistakable Besson charm. They remind us that life, even when it’s challenging, can be filled with beauty, adventure, and unexpected connections.
As we wind down, it’s interesting to see how Besson’s films, with all their grandiosity and fantastical elements, often circle back to universal themes of love, belonging, and the search for meaning. Perhaps the biggest takeaway from enjoying these cinematic journeys is not just the entertainment they provide, but the gentle nudge they give us to appreciate our own lives. To find the extraordinary in the ordinary, to be brave in our pursuits, and to always, always keep a little bit of wonder in our hearts. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I think it’s time for a rewatch. What about you?
