Watch Leon [Director's Cut]

Leon [Director's Cut] is a gripping drama/crime-thriller directed by Luc Besson released in 1994. The film stars Jean Reno as Leon and Natalie Portman as Mathilda. Leon is a hitman for the Italian mafia in New York City. He is a meticulous and efficient assassin, known for his cold and emotionless demeanor. One day, 12-year-old Mathilda, who lives in the same apartment building as Leon, comes home to find her entire family has been brutally murdered by corrupt DEA agents.

Left alone and desperate for revenge, she turns to Leon for help. Initially hesitant to get involved, Leon eventually takes Mathilda under his wing and teaches her how to be a hitwoman. As they work together, the two develop a strong bond that is tested as their dangerous profession becomes increasingly risky.

The relationship between Leon and Mathilda is at the heart of the film. Leon, who is accustomed to living a solitary life, is not comfortable with Mathilda's need for human connection. Mathilda, meanwhile, sees Leon as a father figure and desperately seeks his love and protection. Through their time together, the two grow to understand and care for one another in a way that transcends their professional partnership.

The film is not just focused on the relationship between Leon and Mathilda, it also features a suspenseful plot that keeps audiences on their toes. The DEA agents who killed Mathilda's family are hot on their trail, and the two must use all their cunning and skill to outsmart them.

The film's action sequences are expertly choreographed and executed. Jean Reno, in particular, shines in the role of Leon. He perfectly captures the character's stoic and professional nature while also hinting at the emotional turmoil brewing underneath the surface. Natalie Portman delivers a knockout performance, especially considering her age at the time of the film's release. She expertly navigates the complex emotions of Mathilda with a maturity beyond her years.

The director's cut adds an extra 20 minutes to the runtime of the film, giving audiences a deeper look into the characters and their motivations. It also adds several scenes that were not included in the original theatrical release. This version of the film is darker and more explicit than the original, with more graphic violence and mature themes.

Overall, Leon [Director's Cut] is a masterful movie that seamlessly blends action, suspense, and heart. The relationship between Leon and Mathilda is touching and poignant, while the action sequences are expertly crafted. This is a must-watch film for fans of crime thrillers or those who appreciate well-realized characters and relationships.