Léon: The Professional

Léon

19941h 51m Directed by Luc Besson
8.3
(15445 votes)
CrimeDramaAction

Overview

Léon, the top hit man in New York, has earned a rep as an effective "cleaner". But when his next-door neighbors are wiped out by a loose-cannon DEA agent, he becomes the unwilling custodian of 12-year-old Mathilda. Before long, Mathilda's thoughts turn to revenge, and she considers following in Léon's footsteps.

Léon: The Professional

A Haunting Tale of Unlikely Redemption: "Léon: The Professional" Review

Noura Haddad
Noura HaddadSep 19, 2025
Léon: The Professional, directed by Luc Besson, is a masterfully crafted film that weaves a complex narrative of violence, redemption, and the unlikely bond between a hitman and a young girl. The movie tells the story of Léon, a skilled and ruthless assassin, who finds himself responsible for the care of 12-year-old Mathilda after her family is brutally murdered by a corrupt DEA agent. As Mathilda navigates her desire for revenge, Léon must confront his own morality and the true nature of his profession. The film's thoughtful pacing and nuanced character development make for a compelling watch, with outstanding performances from Jean Reno and Natalie Portman.

The chemistry between Léon and Mathilda is the heart of the film, and their relationship is both poignant and unsettling. Mathilda's desire to learn the ways of the hitman and avenge her family's death raises questions about the cyclical nature of violence and the consequences of our actions. Meanwhile, Léon's character serves as a fascinating study of a man who has become desensitized to the world around him, only to be awakened by the presence of this young girl. The film's use of long takes, clever camera work, and a haunting score all contribute to a sense of tension and unease, drawing the viewer into the dark world of the characters.

Despite its dark subject matter, Léon: The Professional is a film that ultimately offers a message of hope and redemption. Through the characters' struggles and relationships, the movie explores themes of humanity, empathy, and the possibility of change. The film's climax is both intense and emotionally resonant, bringing together the various threads of the narrative in a satisfying and thought-provoking conclusion. While some viewers may find certain scenes or themes disturbing, the film's thoughtful approach and outstanding craftsmanship make it a must-see for fans of crime dramas and those interested in exploring the complexities of the human condition. With its powerful performances, gripping storyline, and masterful direction, Léon: The Professional is a cinematic experience that will linger long after the credits roll.

CAST

Jean Reno
Jean Reno
Léon Montana
Natalie Portman
Natalie Portman
Mathilda Lando
Gary Oldman
Gary Oldman
Norman Stansfield
Danny Aiello
Danny Aiello
Tony
Peter Appel
Peter Appel
Malky
Michael Badalucco
Michael Badalucco
Mathilda's Father
Ellen Greene
Ellen Greene
Mathilda's Mother
Elizabeth Regen
Elizabeth Regen
Mathilda's Sister
Carl J. Matusovich
Carl J. Matusovich
Mathilda's Brother
Eric Challier
Eric Challier
Bodyguard Chief

Trailer

Recent Reviews

Doug's 1st Movie

Doug's 1st Movie

Sep 19, 2025

Doug's 1st Movie, based on the popular Nickelodeon series, brings the beloved characters to the big ...

Striptease

Striptease

Sep 19, 2025

"Striptease" is a film that has been marred by controversy and criticism since its release in 1996, ...

Three to Tango

Three to Tango

Sep 19, 2025

The 1999 romantic comedy "Three to Tango" is a film that attempts to balance witty humor with heartf...

Kuffs

Kuffs

Sep 19, 2025

The 1992 film "Kuffs" is a peculiar blend of action, comedy, and crime, with a premise that promises...

Strictly Ballroom

Strictly Ballroom

Sep 19, 2025

"Strictly Ballroom" is a film that embodies the vibrant spirit of dance, love, and self-expression, ...

Cats Don't Dance

Cats Don't Dance

Sep 19, 2025

"Cats Don't Dance" is a delightful animated film that has stood the test of time, charming audiences...

Sneakers

Sneakers

Sep 19, 2025

The 1992 film "Sneakers" is a masterfully crafted blend of comedy, crime, and drama that has aged re...

Boyz n the Hood

Boyz n the Hood

Sep 19, 2025

"Boyz n the Hood" is a powerful and poignant coming-of-age drama that explores the harsh realities o...

The Godfather Part III

The Godfather Part III

Sep 19, 2025

The Godfather Part III is a film that has long been overshadowed by its iconic predecessors, and whi...

Heat

Heat

Sep 19, 2025

Michael Mann's 1995 crime epic "Heat" is a masterclass in suspenseful storytelling, with a cat-and-m...

Casino

Casino

Sep 19, 2025

Martin Scorsese's "Casino" is a sprawling epic that delves into the underbelly of Las Vegas in the 1...

Léon: The Professional

Léon: The Professional

Sep 19, 2025

Léon: The Professional, directed by Luc Besson, is a masterfully crafted film that weaves a complex ...