Introduction
Luc Besson is a French filmmaker, writer, and producer who has made a significant impact on the film industry with his unique style and captivating storytelling. He has directed and produced some of the most iconic films in history, including Leon: The Professional, The Fifth Element, and Lucy. However, Besson has also been the subject of controversial allegations that have cast a shadow over his career. In this comprehensive list and biography, we will explore both the highs and lows of Luc Besson’s life and career.
Early Life and Career
Childhood and Education
Luc Besson was born on March 18, 1959, in Paris, France. He grew up in a family of artists, with his mother being a ballet dancer and his father a scuba diving instructor. Besson’s love for cinema began at a young age, and he dropped out of school at 17 to pursue a career in the film industry.
Early Films and Success
Besson’s first short film, L’avant dernier, was released in 1981 and won several awards. He went on to direct and write several successful films, including Subway (1985) and The Big Blue (1988). However, it was his film La Femme Nikita (1990) that catapulted him to international fame. The film was a critical and commercial success and was later adapted into an American television series.
Controversial Allegations
Allegations of Sexual Misconduct
In 2018, French actress and director Maiwenn accused Besson of sexually harassing her on the set of their film, The Fifth Element. She claimed that Besson had made inappropriate advances towards her and had pressured her into a romantic relationship. Besson denied the allegations, and the case was later dismissed due to a lack of evidence.
Plagiarism Allegations
Besson has also been accused of plagiarism in several of his films. In 2005, he was sued by John Carpenter for allegedly copying elements of his film Escape from New York in Besson’s film Lockout (2012). Besson denied the allegations, and the case was settled out of court.
Iconic Films
Leon: The Professional
Leon: The Professional (1994) is widely regarded as one of Besson’s most iconic films. The film follows a hitman, Leon, who takes in a young girl, Mathilda, after her family is killed. The film received critical acclaim for its intense action sequences and emotional performances by Jean Reno and a young Natalie Portman.
The Fifth Element
The Fifth Element (1997) is a science fiction film that takes place in a futuristic world where a cab driver, Korben Dallas, must save the world from an evil force. The film was a commercial success and is known for its vibrant visuals and quirky characters, including Milla Jovovich’s character, Leeloo.
Conclusion
Luc Besson’s career has been filled with both success and controversy. While he has created some of the most iconic films in history, he has also faced allegations of sexual misconduct and plagiarism. Despite this, Besson remains a prominent figure in the film industry and continues to create captivating films that leave a lasting impression on audiences.
