Why Did Some Disapprove of Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets?

Introduction

The science fiction genre has produced its fair share of masterpieces that have both captivated and expanded the minds and imaginations of audiences around the world. However, occasionally, a film comes along that does not quite capture the essence or the excitement that viewers hope for. Among the less celebrated in this genre is 'Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets.' While some might see it as a worthy addition to the space opera canon, others find it an underwhelming failure. In this article, we will delve into the reasons why some people might have disliked the movie, analyzing its characters, special effects, and overall storyline.

Challenging the Likability of Characters

Character Development is one of the critical elements that often differentiate a good movie from a great one. In 'Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets,' the characters fall short in this aspect, failing to spark the interest or emotional connection required for a compelling narrative.

Valerian himself, as the protagonist, is a conflict-prone character who doesn't quite break the mold of the hero stereotype. His character, while intended to be intriguing, often comes across as a mere stereotype, lacking the depth and nuance required to make him a relatable hero. Supporting characters, such as Laureline, fail to develop in a way that justifies the significant screen time they receive.

Embracing or Rejection of Special Effects

Special effects are a hallmark of modern science fiction, but they can either enhance or detract from a film's overall quality. In 'Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets,' the visual spectacle does not fully live up to its promotional hype. The effects, while impressive in parts, feel extensive yet underutilized and repetitive. Reviewers often note the similarity between the alien races and species and those from classics like Star Wars, leading to a sense of déjà vu that can dampen the innovative potential.

Struggling with Narrative Focus

One of the primary criticisms of 'Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets' is that the narrative is disjointed and lacks the cohesive structure that a coherent story requires. The film jumps between multiple characters and settings without giving each a sufficient amount of narrative weight. This leads to a fragmented story where underlying themes and character arcs feel underdeveloped or even lost.

Reviews and Audience Response

From a critical perspective, 'Valerian' received mixed reviews. While some praised the visuals and the concept, many felt it fell short on character depth and story development. The movie itself is a product of a high-budget film industry taking on a wide variety of elements, and despite having a unique premise, it ultimately failed to deliver on its promises.

Conclusion

The reasons why some people might have disliked 'Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets' can be attributed to the challenges faced by the film in developing appealing characters, utilizing the stunning special effects, and crafting a coherent narrative. While it offers an intriguing and visually stunning concept, it requires a firmer grip on the fundamentals of storytelling to truly resonate with audiences.

Additional Information

For those interested in learning more about the film’s behind-the-scenes processes, the making of the movie, and the creative challenges the filmmakers faced, additional resources such as interviews with the directors, extensive behind-the-scenes footage, and articles about the making of the special effects can provide valuable insights.