Rating of
3.5/4
Professional, The (Léon) review
Daniel Corleone - wrote on 08/08/11
Jean Reno is Leon, the professional hitman who is a loyal unemotional killer when he accidentally helps a young girl named Mathilda whose family was murdered by a crooked cop. Natalie Portman has never been better as the abused daughter Mathilda. Even the supporting cast, Tony was acted well by Danny Aiello. Jean Reno’s timing in delivering lines and dumbfounded gestures are noteworthy. Norman Stansfield, the neurotic, temperamental antagonist was well played by Gary Oldman. His stares are enough to shiver your spine. Memorable quotes: Mathilda – “If you saved my life, you must have saved it for a good reason.” Norman – “It's when you start to become really afraid of death,that you learn to appreciate life.” Leon – “You've given me a new taste for life. I want to be happy, sleep in a bed, have roots. You'll never be alone again, Mathilda.”
The camera angles and movement was appropriate, storytelling was effective efficient during the film. There were a few scenes that are unrealistic, ala Bourne in some way but still the action and drama never seizes to amaze. In some romantic scenes between Mathilda and Leon, each frame is realistic (much like Before Sunrise) since they spent so much time together training and doing jobs. Leon’s themes range from being a professional (be it work or how you project yourself), valuing life and dedication to anything you do. Aside from the majestic action sequences, the drama and humor was likewise unadulterated. Aside from the unpropitious tragedy and improbable sequences, the film delivers from start to end. If you don’t want to be cleaned, I highly recommend you see The Professional (Leon). I was fortunate to have viewed the movie with the 25 minutes additional footage.
