The first trailer forThe Fifth ElementdirectorLuc Besson’s sci-fi epicValerian and the City of a Thousand Planetshas been released online.Based on the long-running French comicValérian and Laureline, which was first published in 1967, the film starsCara DelevingneandDane DeHaanas special operatives for the government of the human territories charged with maintaining order throughout the universe. The two are tasked with a mission in the intergalactic city of Alpha, which finds them in direct conflict with unforeseen forces that put them in grave danger.
There is averystrongGuardians of the Galaxyvibe to this debut trailer, asThe Beatles' “Because.” plays over the intensely sci-fi imagery—even the body armor suits kind of evoke Star-Lord’s getup. Regardless, that’s a smart way to sell a film like this, and Besson was doing his own thing back in the 90s withThe Fifth Element, so it’s not like he needs to look elsewhere for high-concept sci-fi inspiration.
As for the film itself, this is very much a teaser trailer so we don’t get any hint of the story just yet. What we do see is a bevy of outlandish visual effects and space logic, and ifValeriancan harness that weird humor energy thatFifth Elementhas, audiences could be in for a very fun ride.
Watch the firstValerian and the City of a Thousand Planetstrailer below andclick here for Steve’s exclusive interviewwith Besson about the movie. The film also starsClive Owen,Rihanna,Ethan Hawke,John Goodman,Herbie HancockandKris Wu.Valerianopens in theaters on June 14, 2025.
Here’s the official synopsis forValerian and the City of a Thousand Planets:
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.
