Exquisite . . . What film should be . . . Besson = Master

Rating: 10/10 (2 August 2014)

Luc Besson achieves a level of cinematic perfection, seldom seen, with his latest offering - "Lucy".
This film is complete - beautiful cinematography, great story, a gripping score and tension that crawls into you and won't let go. Fans of the Fifth Element will recognize the increasingly frenetic pacing and staccato use of scene cuts, as well as the gorgeous, flowing camera work and the use of visual allegory from Besson's previous projects. Old film tricks used in new ways serve to build the tension from the first frame to "Lucy"'s final, shuddering climax. Elements of Leon The Professional and La Femme Nikita are present but feel more refined here, more sophisticated and deliver even more "oomph" to action fans.
However, beyond what we know of Besson's previous work lies the truth of why "Lucy" is such a fantastic film and a true, "must-see". If you love sci-fi - It's an excellent rendition of a classic theme. If you love Scar Jo, she's never been better and again demonstrates the range of a true talent. But, if you love films - be you a student, an enthusiast or "in the biz" - you must see "Lucy". It is on of those rarest of works that will remind you of why you started loving movies in the first place.
Rarely, have I been moved along, so urgently, by a film. Ushered swiftly into experiences I thought I knew, only to have revealed to me some new thought, or philosophical idea that I was heretofore unaware of. "Lucy" does this honestly and smart. At times I found myself enthralled by the "Koyaanisqatsi"-like images - here used as a device for squeezing more tension out of a scene - not just for their intrinsic, artistic value. "Lucy" is blessed with musical scoring so subtle and powerful that, at times, I was unaware that I was breathing with the tempo of the film.
You will watch it. You will discuss it. You will re-watch it. You will remember why you love movies and lament the fact that so few of them deliver what "Lucy" does. Thanks Luc.