Review of Nikita (1990) by Jose M — 09 Nov 2009

A great precursor to the brilliance he exhibited in the direction of "Leon: The Professional," Luc Besson's "La Femme Nikita" is a frenetic action-thriller, with an excellent humanistic element, in the sense that it really serves to capture the gradual transformation of the protagonist into an actual person, as opposed to the empty shell we are introduced to at the start of the film.

Besson shows considerable talent as a writer, penning this elaborate, albeit contrived story (still excellent for the genre) that proves to be both engrossing as it is entertaining. A definite thrill ride from start to finish, this film shows the touches of brilliance that made Besson's "Leon" a masterpiece, and also features a solid lead performance by Anne Parillaud.