Very little is known about Luc Besson’s upcoming sci-fi project and how he will go about adapting the cult comic series. We do, however, know that he’s assembled an exciting and dynamic collection of actors. Earlier this year Besson announced that Dane DeHaan would play the time-travelling Valerian and Cara Delevingne would portray his partner Laureline.
In August Clive Owen signed on to play DeHaan and Delevingne’s commander. Rihanna is also reportedly involved in the project but her character has yet to be announced. Intrigued yet? Well if you aren’t, this might change your mind. Yesterday (December 5) Besson announced on Instagram that Ethan Hawke (who has experienced quite a meteoric rise since his impressive turn in Boyhood) has joined the cast. His character has yet to be announced though.
The film is based on the French graphic novel series Valérian and Laureline which follows two time-travelling agents who fight the enemies of the Terran Empire. Besson will write and direct, while Virginie Besson Silla will produce on behalf of EuropaCorp, which will finance, produce and distribute. Here’s the official synopsis for Valerian from EuropaCorp;
“Rooted in the classic graphic novel series, Valerian and Laureline – visionary writer/director Luc Besson advances this iconic source material into a contemporary, unique and epic science fiction saga. Valerian (Dane DeHaan) and Laureline (Cara Delevingne) are special operatives for the government of the human territories charged with maintaining order throughout the universe. Valerian has more in mind than a professional relationship with his partner- blatantly chasing after her with propositions of romance. But his extensive history with women, and her traditional values, drive Laureline to continuously rebuff him.
Under directive from their Commander (Clive Owen), Valerian and Laureline embark on a mission to the breathtaking intergalactic city of Alpha, an ever-expanding metropolis comprised of thousands of different species from all four corners of the universe. Alpha’s seventeen million inhabitants have converged over time- uniting their talents, technology and resources for the betterment of all. Unfortunately, not everyone on Alpha shares in these same objectives; in fact, unseen forces are at work, placing our race in great danger”.
#Peace.Love.EthanHawke
