While in Paris for a short vacation in June, 1996, I learned that one of my favorite movies was being re-released in a longer, uncut form. The film was LEON (aka The Professional); it was being reported in the French PREMIERE as having many scenes restored, ones that American studio editors had whined about. Even though I wouldn't catch the theatre release, I knew a video release would likely occur. Strangely, the anticipated "version integrale" appeared later in the video release section of another foreign zine, my monthly anime treat, NEWTYPE. Fans of LEON would definitely be importing this item, which was never meant to be sold on our shores. My chance to own a copy happened when a cohort bought the Region 2 DVD, which he could watch on his code-cracked player (tres expensive). I begged for a copy, and received.

The additional footage was impressive, and improved the story continuity. Especially welcome were the more frank and intimate scenes between Jean Reno and Natalie Portman. As this summer marked her rise to superstardom, thanks to Lucas' franchise, I've chosen to upload LEON v.i.imagery of the young lady. The movie was tough to capture from, with its severe widescreen and earthy colors. Still, I think my selection should please Portman fans. Also online is a soundtrack remix, with bits of her dialog, that was snagged in MP3 form from another fan page.