Hollywood Popular Artists

Apr 12th 2012, 20:00

by Ryan Rigley

Some might argue that the new Guy Pearce movie "Lockout" is just "Taken" in space. Well, first of all, there is absolutely nothing wrong with that. "Taken" in space is a brilliant idea. Second of all, both movies were written by the same guy!

Luc Besson, the famed French filmmaker, is the man behind several of the best action movies to come out of this past decade. Although his name might not be instantly recognizable, Besson has been involved in the production of over 50 films as either a writer, director or producer. He's also the creator and founder of the EuropaCorp film company, which has produced over 100 films since it's inception back in 1997, including this weekend's "Lockout."

In honor of the space-set action flick, written and produced by Besson, we've compiled a list of the five best films that Luc Besson has ever been involved with. Check them out after the jump!

» 1. "The Fifth Element" (Writer/Director)
Taking place in the 23rd century, Bruce Willis and Milla Jovovovich must join forces and collect four mystical stones in order to stop Gary Oldman and Evil itself. This French science fiction film is set in a unique, futuristic landscape and chock-full of fun, memorable outfits. Who could forget Jovovovich's masking tape bikini or Chris Tucker's leopard-print space pimp suit and loofah hair?

» 2. "Taken" (Writer/Producer)
Liam Neeson has a very particular set of skills. Skills that make him a nightmare for the Albanian mafia, who have TAKEN his daughter and plan to sell her as a sex slave. But not to worry. Liam Neeson will look for them, he will find them, and he will kill them. Although the premise for this film is admittedly very basic, it's still one of the most badass action movies ever made. Good thing they're making a sequel!

» 3. "The Transporter" (Writer/Producer)
The movie that made Jason Statham a household name, Frank Martin (Statham's character) is an exceptionally talented mercenary driver that will deliver anything, anywhere without a second thought. If the price is right, that is. However, complications arise when Frank soon discovers that one of the packages that he's meant to deliver is a helpless young woman.

» 4. "Unleashed" (Writer/Producer)
One of the most bizarre concepts for a martial arts movie, "Unleashed" tells the tale of Danny, a skilled fighter that will only attack once the metal collar has been removed from his neck. Raised as a dog, Danny (played by Jet Li) has the mentality of a child with no recollection of who he is or where he's from. All he knows is how to beat people up on command, which his owner takes advantage of as often as he can.

» 5. "Leon: The Professional" (Writer/Director)
A hitman, living on his own in Little Italy, becomes the unwitting instructor of a 12 year old girl whose family has just been murdered. Jean Reno, who plays the hitman, stars alongside Gary Oldman, who plays a corrupt DEA agent, and Natalie Portman, in her feature film debut. In exchange for Jean Reno teaching her how to kill, Natalie Portman teaches him how to read. The two develop a very strange bond over the course of the movie that is even somewhat uncomfortable at times. It's great!

Tell us your favorite Luc Besson movies in the comments section or on Twitter!

Media files:
lockout_wide1.jpg (image/jpeg)
lockout_wide1-70x53.jpg (image/jpeg)