Last night, MAMI as part of its growing year round programme premiered Valerian and the City of A Thousand Planets. Directed by the legendary filmmaker Luc Besson, the film is based on the French science fiction comic series Valérian and Laureline, written by Pierre Christin and illustrated by Jean-Claude Mézières.

The premiere saw a tremendous turn out of film buffs in the city as well as well-known personalities such as Ranvir Shorey, Raaghav Chanana, Vasan Bala, Taaha Shah, and Fatima Sana Shaikh.

Valerian is set against the backdrop of the 28th century, where special operatives Valerian (Dane DeHaan) and Laureline (Cara Delevingne) work together to maintain order throughout the human territories. Hired by the minister of defense, the duo embarks on a mission to Alpha, an ever-expanding metropolis where diverse species gather to share knowledge and culture. When a dark force threatens the peaceful city, Valerian and Laureline must race against time to identify the menace that also jeopardizes the future of the universe.

The film also features actors, Clive Owen, Riana, Ethan Hawke and Herbie Hancock.

MAMI Creative Director Smriti Kiran said, “The idea at the year round programme is to mix it up and try new things. We felt compelled to bring this film to the audience because it is Luc Besson and our partners PVR pictures and MVP. We will continue to bring the most diverse work from around the world to Indian Audiences.”

Mr. Kamal Gianchandani, CEO – PVR Pictures said, “Over the years, MAMI has grown to become one of the most reputed destinations for quality cinema. We are delighted to continue our association with them and have our upcoming film,Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets screen at this prestigious platform. With a cast and crew comprising of director Luc Besson and Dane DeHaan, Cara Delevingne, Clive Owen, Rihanna and Ethan Hawke…we do believe that Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets is a cinematic experience that will fascinate many.”

Sharing the experience of the film, actor Fatima Sana Shaikh said, “The film was really interesting, I enjoyed it…I was pretty invested.”

While Ranvir Shorey said, “Amazing! It was fabulous! Visual extravaganza, this has the usual Luc Besson swag!”

Vasan Bala added, “I am a huge Luc Besson FAN, love the way he visualizes, right from THE 5TH Element.”