In “Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets” (2017), the story unfolds in the 28th century on the massive space station Alpha, which houses a diverse array of species from across the galaxy. Alpha, a bustling metropolis, is the center of intergalactic activity and diplomacy.

Valerian (Dane DeHaan) and Laureline (Cara Delevingne) are elite agents working for the government. They are tasked with maintaining order and investigating various galactic threats. Their latest mission takes a critical turn when they are assigned to recover a powerful artifact connected to a mysterious ancient civilization known as the Pearls.

The plot kicks off when Valerian and Laureline discover that the artifact, which is said to possess immense power, is linked to the Pearls, whose home planet was destroyed centuries ago. The Pearls were once a highly advanced civilization, and the artifact holds the key to their potential revival. The operatives learn that a surviving member of the Pearls, Emperor Hado, is seeking the artifact to restore his people.

As they investigate, Valerian and Laureline uncover a conspiracy involving high-level corruption and deceit. They navigate through a series of elaborate and visually stunning environments, encountering a variety of alien species and facing numerous challenges. The mission takes them to neon-lit markets, dangerous alien terrains, and other fantastical locations across Alpha.

Throughout the film, Valerian and Laureline are pursued by antagonists who want to control the artifact for their own purposes. They must evade capture, fight off adversaries, and unravel the mystery behind the artifact to prevent a galactic catastrophe. Their journey reveals the true nature of the artifact and its connection to the ancient civilization.

The climax of the film features a high-stakes confrontation where Valerian and Laureline must prevent the artifact from falling into the wrong hands. The resolution involves a dramatic showdown that underscores the power of the artifact and its impact on the fate of Alpha and the galaxy.

“Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets” is known for its impressive visual effects, imaginative world-building, and grand action sequences, presenting a rich and expansive vision of the future while exploring themes of adventure, loyalty, and the struggle between good and evil.