Where was Léon filmed?
Léon: The Professional is a 1994 French action film written and directed by Luc Besson. The movie is set in New York City and features a unique blend of action, drama, and thriller elements. The film has gained a cult following over the years, and many fans are curious about the filming locations used in the movie. In this article, we’ll explore where Léon was filmed and provide some interesting facts about the movie’s production.
Direct Answer
Léon: The Professional was filmed in various locations in New York City, France, and Hungary. The majority of the movie was shot on location in New York City, with some scenes filmed in Paris, France, and Budapest, Hungary.
New York City Filming Locations
Some of the notable filming locations in New York City include:
• Little Italy: Many scenes featuring Léon’s apartment and the surrounding streets were filmed in Little Italy, a neighborhood in Lower Manhattan.
• Greenwich Village: The iconic scene where Léon and Mathilda visit the park was filmed in Washington Square Park, located in Greenwich Village.
• Times Square: The scene where Léon and Mathilda visit Times Square was filmed on the famous square, which was less crowded back in the 1990s.
Paris, France Filming Locations
Some scenes were also filmed in Paris, France, including:
• Champs-Élysées: The scene where Léon and Mathilda visit the Champs-Élysées was filmed on the famous avenue, which is known for its beautiful gardens and iconic landmarks.
• Montmartre: The scene where Léon and Mathilda visit the Montmartre neighborhood was filmed in the charming streets of the historic area.
Budapest, Hungary Filming Locations
Some scenes were also filmed in Budapest, Hungary, including:
• Buda Castle: The scene where Léon and Mathilda visit the Buda Castle was filmed in the stunning castle complex, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Andrássy Avenue: The scene where Léon and Mathilda visit the Andrássy Avenue was filmed on the famous boulevard, which is known for its beautiful architecture and cultural landmarks.
Interesting Facts
Here are some interesting facts about the filming of Léon: The Professional:
• Plant Symbolism: The plants that Léon carries around are a symbol of his emotional repressed personality. According to Jean Reno, the actor who played Léon, the plants were a way to show that Léon was a complex character with deep emotions.
• French Connection: The film was written and directed by Luc Besson, a French filmmaker, which is reflected in the film’s French-inspired setting and characters.
• Natalie Portman’s Debut: Léon: The Professional was Natalie Portman’s film debut. She was only 12 years old when she was cast in the role of Mathilda.
• Jean Reno’s Research: Jean Reno did extensive research on his character, Léon, to prepare for the role. He studied the behavior of hitmen and developed a backstory for Léon’s character.
Conclusion
Léon: The Professional is a unique film that has gained a cult following over the years. The film’s blend of action, drama, and thriller elements, combined with its interesting characters and settings, have made it a beloved classic. The filming locations used in the movie, including New York City, Paris, and Budapest, add to the film’s charm and make it a fascinating topic to explore. Whether you’re a fan of the film or just curious about its production, we hope this article has provided you with a deeper understanding of where Léon was filmed.