Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets (2017) Characters, Setting & Themes Explained

Alpha is a sprawling metropolitan city in the 28th century that serves as a central hub for countless alien species from different planets. It represents a unique union of diverse cultures and knowledge, showcasing the universe's multicultural complexity. The city is depicted as vibrant and expansive, contrasting sharply with the more tranquil worlds featured in the film.

• alpha
• space city
• metropolis
• alien hub

Mül was once a tranquil planet with a pristine environment and peaceful inhabitants, but it was destroyed in a catastrophic event. The planet's destruction occurred as a result of violent actions tied to human ambition, specifically related to the government's use of a weapon called the converter. This tragic event becomes central to understanding the film's themes of justice and the consequences of violence.

• mül
• destroyed planet
• converter
• genocide

The movie is set in the 28th century, a time characterized by advanced space exploration and the creation of vast space colonies. This era reflects humanity's attempt to establish order and peace in the universe amid escalating conflicts and technological advancements that can potentially lead to destruction. The 28th-century setting provides the backdrop for the story's themes of exploration and cosmic ambition.

• 28th century
• time period
• future
• space age

Justice is a central theme as characters confront the consequences of past actions and the pursuit of accountability. Valerian and Laureline grapple with the moral complexities of their mission, questioning the government's justification for violent history, specifically the genocide of the Mül people. The theme emphasizes the importance of making amends and striving for fair resolution, culminating in characters facing accountability for their actions.

• justice
• accountability
• genocide
• government
• moral complexity

Valerian is a carefree and brash major in the space police who is determined to prove his worth. He is portrayed as impulsive, with his nature sometimes clouding his judgment, particularly in matters of love. Throughout the story, he learns the importance of responsibility and sacrifice. As one of the film's protagonists, he works alongside Laureline as a galactic agent investigating threats to Alpha.

• valerian
• dane dehaan
• space police
• major
• protagonist

Laureline is Valerian's pragmatic partner in the space police, known for her sharp intellect and role as the voice of reason amidst Valerian's reckless tendencies. She possesses a deep sense of justice and is initially wary of Valerian's flirtations. Her courage and determination to protect the innocent become evident as the story unfolds, making her essential to the mission's success.

• laureline
• cara delevingne
• partner
• justice
• voice of reason

Commander Filitt is a stern and morally complex leader who struggles with the repercussions of his past decisions, particularly the genocide of the Mül inhabitants. His character reveals the darker sides of leadership where the pursuit of power can lead to ethical dilemmas. By the film's end, his admission of guilt highlights his internal conflict, making him a pivotal figure in the story's exploration of justice and accountability.

• commander filitt
• clive owen
• leader
• genocide
• villain

Valerian and Laureline are partner agents in the space police who share a growing romantic relationship. Valerian's feelings for Laureline are a driving force throughout the story, and his proposal becomes a significant moment in their journey. Their bond is tested by perilous situations, ultimately underscoring the theme that love can inspire courage and resilience. Laureline is initially wary of Valerian's flirtations but their bond deepens through shared missions.

• valerian
• laureline
• romance
• relationship
• love

Exploration serves as both an external and internal theme in the film. Valerian's mission takes him through various vibrant worlds, exposing hidden dangers and historical tragedies. The journey represents humanity's quest for knowledge and discovery, while also allowing characters to confront inner truths about themselves and their universe. This theme showcases the rich tapestry of life across different planets while addressing the consequences of past decisions.

• exploration
• discovery
• space journey
• inner truth

Alpha and Mül represent stark contrasts in the film. Alpha is a bustling cosmic metropolis filled with diverse alien species and cultural exchange, representing human achievement and unity. Mül, in contrast, was a peaceful, pristine planet before its destruction. This contrast highlights the film's themes of human ambition versus the consequences of violence, showing how progress can come at a devastating cost.

• alpha
• mül
• contrast
• metropolis
• planet
• city vs nature

Love serves as a driving force for both Valerian and Laureline, shaping their actions and decisions throughout their adventure. Valerian's proposal and their growing bond come under scrutiny as they face perilous situations. The theme ultimately underscores that love can inspire courage and resilience in the face of adversity, with the central romance culminating in a mutual declaration of love despite the dangers they encounter.

• love
• courage
• romance
• proposal
• partnership