In anticipation of Valerian and The City of a Thousand Planets, the new sci-fi adventure film from French film auteur, Luc Besson, I have cooked up a think piece about the sequel that never was and according to Besson himself last week at the screening of Leon: The Professional at the Egyptian Theatre in Hollywood, never could be.
“Why didn’t you ever make a sequel about what happens to Mathilda?” an earnest fan dressed as the lanky hitman, Leon, addressed the soft spoken french director during the Q & A following the crowd pleasing theatrical cut of Leon: The Professional. Besson thought for a moment then, answered in his typical broken english, “That time has passed.” He continued, “Finally, I had the perfect idea for a film with Mathilda aged 19, but, Natalie isn’t 19 anymore. The time has passed.”
Suddenly, I wasn’t listening anymore. The question opened up an entire world of possibility for me. How many times have I day-dreamed about whatever happened to Mathilda? More than I can count. This wasn’t a new imagination realm. I had often thought about the older, wiser Mathilda since I first watched Leon: The Professional on home video back in the 90’s. I wasn’t much older than Mathilda was then. She was 12 and I was 14. Honestly, I wasn’t supposed to be watching my father’s action films but how could I not?
Here’s the setup: Every Sunday night, the stack of VHS tapes ready to be returned to Blockbuster Video sat on the coffee table until Monday morning when my mother would take them to the Blockbuster dropbox after she drove both me and my brother to school. So, what happened between Sunday night and Monday morning? You guessed it. Little Julianna would creep downstairs and cram every R-rated film into her brain until sunrise. I would leave for school exhausted, but man, it was worth it!
For those of you who don’t know anything about Leon: The Professional, go watch it now.
For the rest, here’s a recap: It’s a story that takes place in NYC’s Little Italy about a 12 year old girl, Mathilda, that returns home from the grocery store after her parents have been brutally slain by rogue DEA agents. The agents sought vengeance specifically toward her father, who had been cutting the cocaine he was stashing for them. In the same apartment building, down the hallway, lives an awkward hitman, Leon, with a prowess for killing unlike anything seen in cinema before. He seems inhuman in strength and as intuitive as a cat. His gift for operating semi-automatic weaponry and sniper rifles make the gangster films of the 80s pale in comparison. When Leon takes the orphaned Mathilda into his home, his life changes forever.
With everyone in her family dead, including her only source of comfort in the world, her little brother, Mathilda decides to ask Leon to teach her to hunt and kill with ease the way he does. In hopes of executing her brother’s killer, she begins a rigorous training program with Leon at the helm. Later, with the help of Leon, Mathilda is able to track down the corrupt DEA agents, thwart their evil plans and destroy them. In the end, Mathilda loses her newfound friend, Leon, in an explosion that kills the main bad dude too, however, she gains insight on true friendship and an expertise on “cleaning” most people never receive. Before the credits roll, she is forced to enroll back into to the prestigious boarding school that threatened to expel her before her family died. The end.
Only Luc Besson could make something sounding this ridiculous on paper, seem exciting, fresh and most importantly, plausible. It really has a charming, gangster fairy tale vibe to it. Moreover, it made an 11 year old Natalie Portman, in the role of Mathilda, an overnight star.
Growing up in the 90s, woman started to be represented in new ways. Female badasses began cropping up on the silver screen and TV. Not a ton, mind you, but enough for me to gather some anti-heroic role models. Luc Besson excelled at writing female characters of complexity, importance and strength. We need not look further then La Femme Nikita or The Fifth Element for great examples of female heroines. Leon: The Professional was no exception.
Strangely enough, the first time I saw Leon: The Professional, I understood a new part of myself. I couldn’t shake Mathilda. I thought about her and her fate long after middle school math class. I thought about her during high school, college, and later, in film classes. What was she up to? I knew she couldn’t have stayed at that boring boarding school for long and if she did, it was only a matter of time before she broke out and slipped into the NYC night with her head full of Leon’s teachings to exact her satisfying retribution toward a corrupt and unjust world.
Mathilda had no real home, no mundane future ahead and no strings attached. She could be anyone, and yet, no one at the same time; a perfect woman to admire. Mathilda: A blank canvas to gaze upon while living out different parts of my own life; the troubling phases and the pesky growing pains. Did she become the kind of woman that we all wanted to be? Yes, because she didn’t have to be anything for certain. She could walk between the raindrops like Leon did. She could live in hiding as a vigilante or go through school and receive top honors.
It’s true. Mathilda is a Rorschach for my own life; a gauge for how I am living and how I am feeling. If Mathilda is killing some greedy politicians or drowning a nasty child killer in a puddle of his own blood then, clearly, I’m a little world weary. Is she teaching neurophysics at NYU while designing the ultimate neurological weapon on the side? Conversely, is she a mother that protects her own children from the violent childhood that she experienced? Maybe. It all truly depends on where my head is at.
Regardless of who or what Mathilda is to you, Luc Besson created a great, multi-dimensional character. Natalie Portman brought her to life. In a world of disappointing one dimensional female characters, Mathilda makes the ultimate difference. For me, she has always been an exemplary representation of a dream you take home long after the movie ends.
Written by: Julianna Brudek
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Streaming
Masters of the Air: A Gritty Tribute to the Heroes of the Skies
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Rating: 4.5/5
Apple TV’s Masters of the Air takes viewers on an intense journey through the harrowing experiences of the Eighth Air Force during World War II. This limited series, produced by the dynamic duo of Steven Spielberg and Tom Hanks, delivers a gripping portrayal of the bravery and sacrifice of the young men who fought in the skies over Europe. With a focus on authenticity and emotional depth, Masters of the Air stands as a worthy successor to its predecessors, *Band of Brothers* and The Pacific.
The series excels in its meticulous attention to detail, from the period-accurate planes to the stark realism of aerial combat. The visual effects are nothing short of spectacular, immersing the audience in the chaos and danger of high-altitude warfare. The show’s cinematography captures the vastness of the skies and the claustrophobic confines of the bombers, adding to the tension that permeates every scene.
Masters of the Air is anchored by strong performances from its ensemble cast. The actors deliver nuanced portrayals of their characters, conveying the fear, camaraderie, and resolve that defined the Eighth Air Force’s mission. The series doesn’t shy away from the darker aspects of war, including the psychological toll on the airmen and the devastating losses they endured.
However, *Masters of the Air* isn’t just about action and heroism. It also explores the complex moral dilemmas faced by the pilots and crew, adding layers to the narrative that elevate it above typical war dramas. The series’ pacing is deliberate, allowing for moments of introspection amid the chaos, which deepens the emotional impact.
In conclusion, *Masters of the Air* is a powerful and moving tribute to the unsung heroes of the skies. Its combination of historical accuracy, stunning visuals, and compelling storytelling makes it a must-watch for fans of war dramas and history buffs alike. Apple TV has once again proven its prowess in delivering top-tier original content, and *Masters of the Air* is a shining example of their commitment to quality storytelling.
With its emotionally charged narrative and breathtaking visuals, *Masters of the Air* earns a solid 4.5 out of 5 stars. This series is not just a show—it’s an experience that honors the legacy of the brave airmen who risked everything for freedom.
Uncategorized
The Sacrificial Princess and the King of Beasts
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Rating: 10/10
If you’re a fan of fantasy worlds filled with magic, talking beasts, and a storyline that feels like a reimagined “Beauty and the Beast,” *The Sacrificial Princess and the King of Beasts* is an anime you should not miss. Streaming on Crunchyroll, this underrated gem offers a fresh and engaging twist on the classic tale of love and sacrifice in a magical otherworld.
The anime takes place in a fantastical world where humans and beasts coexist in a fragile peace. The story follows Sariphi, a young girl who has been chosen as the 99th human sacrifice to the fearsome King of Beasts, Leonhart. However, instead of cowering in fear, Sariphi faces her fate with courage and empathy, qualities that intrigue the beastly king. As their relationship develops, Sariphi learns that Leonhart harbors a deep secret that could change the fate of both their worlds.
Sariphi, the protagonist, is a breath of fresh air in the world of anime heroines. Her unwavering kindness and bravery make her a relatable and admirable character. Leonhart, the King of Beasts, is a complex character whose tough exterior hides a heart full of vulnerability. The supporting cast, consisting of talking beasts and magical beings, adds depth and richness to the world-building, making every episode a visual and emotional treat.
The animation quality is top-notch, with beautiful, lush backgrounds that bring the magical world to life. The character designs, especially the talking beasts, are creative and detailed, adding to the fantastical atmosphere of the anime. The contrast between the dark, mysterious kingdom and the warmth of the characters’ interactions is visually striking and enhances the overall storytelling.
At its core, The Sacrificial Princess and the King of Beasts is a story about breaking down barriers, understanding the “other,” and the power of love to transform even the most hardened hearts. The anime explores themes of sacrifice, acceptance, and the courage to stand up against prejudice. It’s a story that resonates on many levels, making it more than just a simple fantasy tale.
With only one season and 24 episodes, *The Sacrificial Princess and the King of Beasts* is a binge-worthy series that delivers a compelling story, memorable characters, and a beautifully crafted world. While it may not have the mainstream popularity of other fantasy anime, it’s a hidden gem that deserves more recognition. If you’re into magical worlds, talking beasts, and stories with heart, this anime is a must-watch.
This series is a great find on Crunchyroll for those who crave a blend of fantasy, magic, and heartfelt storytelling. Don’t miss out on this enchanting adventure!
Streaming
Ramen Akaneko – A Flavorful Journey into Culinary Magic
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★★★★☆ (4.5/5)
Red Cat Ramen or Ramen Akaneko is a captivating and unique anime that blends the worlds of culinary artistry and magical realism, now streaming on Crunchyroll. The series centers on Yashiro Tamako,
a young girl who has a dislike of cats and applies for a part-time position at a ramen joint run by cats.
The anime unfolds as Tamako and the cat staff embark on a journey to revive the struggling ramen shop, which has fallen out of favor with the locals. Each episode showcases a different cat and their interaction with Tamako through the intricate process of running the restaurant from daily cat brushings to customer service. Along the way, they encounter a cast of colorful characters, from rival chefs to eccentric food critics, each contributing to Tamako’s growth.
The story is not just about food; it’s about tradition, legacy, and the bonds that are forged through the act of cooking. The cat staff with their enigmatic personalities and vast wisdom, become both a mentors and friends to Tamako, helping her uncover the true essence of a restaurant.
Ramen Akaneko stands out in the anime world for its unique combination of culinary exploration and fantasy storytelling. The series is visually stunning, with each ramen dish meticulously animated to highlight the artistry involved in ramen-making. The anime doesn’t just stop at visuals; it delves deep into the cultural and emotional significance of ramen, offering viewers a rich, sensory experience.
The characters are well-developed, particularly Tamako, whose journey from a novice to a fully fledged staff member is both inspiring and relatable. The staff, with its mysterious aura, adds a layer of intrigue and depth to the story. Their dynamic relationship drives the narrative, making each episode feel like a new chapter in their evolving partnership.
Bunzo (文蔵)
Voiced by: Kenjiro Tsuda[3]
Sasaki (佐々木)
Voiced by: Noriaki Sugiyama[4]
Sabu (サブ)
Voiced by: Michiyo Murase[4]
Hana (ハナ)
Voiced by: Rie Kugimiya[4]
Krishna (クリシュナ, Kurishuna)
Voiced by: Saori Hayami[4]
Tamako Yashiro (社珠子, Yashiro Tamako)
Voiced by: Kurumi
The anime’s pacing is well-balanced, with a mix of light-hearted moments, intense culinary battles, and touching emotional scenes.
For fans of cooking anime, Ramen Akaneko is a feast for the senses. The attention to detail in the cooking sequences is impressive, and the way the show incorporates elements of fantasy makes it stand out from other food-themed anime. Whether you’re a ramen enthusiast, a fantasy lover, or just looking for a heartwarming story, Ramen Akaneko is a delightful watch that should be on your must-see list this year.
Ramen Akaneko is a beautifully crafted anime that offers more than just a visual feast. It’s a story of passion, perseverance, and the magic that happens when food is made with love and care. With its stunning animation, engaging characters, and heartwarming plot, this series is a must-watch for anime fans and foodies alike. Don’t miss out on this flavorful journey—head over to Crunchyroll and dive into the world of Ramen Akaneko.