LEON

************這篇影評可能有雷************

[交作業]

Every time we talk about hit man, the first impression is their cruel behavior and cool appearance. Have you ever thought about a sharp hit man full of warmth, has a smile that is so lovely that fails to fit his invincible body? A little girl named Mathilda has met one, his name is Léon.

Film 『Léon』, which is one of the most significant films directed by Besson, has totally driven me crazy. It’s a story happened in 紐約.
The whole family was killed by a corrupt police officer, but only Mathilda, a twelve-year old girl, who was out shopping, survives by finding shelter in Léon's apartment in the moment of highest need. Professional assassin Léon, who is completely inexperienced in fatherly tasks, and in friendships, takes care of her and teaches her his trade, and does his best to keep Mathilda out of trouble- unsuccessfully. Meanwhile, Léon slowly discovers his abilities to live, to feel, and to love.

The story, which at the first glance is a little bit corny, however, becomes gripping and emotional when I lost myself in it. While I thought I had understood the story, I suddenly realized that I hadn』t even scratched its surface. The relationship Léon and Mathilda is so complicated that they plays varies roles in each others』 life. They are teacher and student, Léon fulfils his duty to teach Mathilda how to be a great cleaner. They look like father and daughter, Mathilda relies on Léon, while Léon protects Mathilda till the last second of his life. They are reliable partners, but they look more like lovers. Mathilda tries to explain her affection to Léon, the only man in her life, while Léon opened his heart to the little girl, but his emotion is blocked by his cold on the surface, and 『l love you』 has not been spoken out until he is dying. The endearing part of Léon is that you can see he truly cares about what happens to the little girl who is suddenly thrust into the world, alone. One comments on it, which I think is perfectly described the story, 『a killer and a child are changed forever by each other.』

The film is succeeded, not only in terms of its scenario, but also its superb characterization. The characters are sympathetic and adorable in the hands of the skilled Jean Reno and Natalie Portman. It is Jean Reno, which Leon is beautifully acted by, provides us the opportunity to see a side of a cold hearted killer that most people would not see. There is real danger and drama throughout the film, yet it never becomes merely an action film-the characters are too tremendous for that.

Individuals who still have a warm part inside will surely be appeal to the movie as I am. Though it was published early in 1994, it’s never late for you to watch a movie that is worth taking time to enjoy as 『Léon』.