What happens when one of cinema's most visionary directors, Luc Besson, is stuck at home during a global pandemic? He grabs a phone, calls up two fresh-faced actors, and creates June & John—a romantic thriller that feels like a love letter to both cinema and spontaneity. The trailer has just dropped, and it's already sparking conversations. Could this be the most unconventional love story of the decade?
A Whirlwind of Passion and Chaos
June & John tells the story of John (Luke Stanton Eddy), a man stuck in the monotony of everyday life, whose world is turned upside down when he meets June (Matilda Price), a mysterious and fearless woman. Their connection is instant, electric, and dangerous. The film promises a mix of adrenaline-pumping action (helicopter chases, anyone?) and heartfelt romance, all wrapped in Besson's signature style.
What makes this project stand out is its origin story. Shot entirely on a phone during the 2020 COVID-19 lockdown, June & John is a testament to creativity under constraints. Besson, known for his visually stunning films like The Fifth Element and Léon: The Professional, traded high-tech cameras for a device most of us use to scroll through Instagram. The result? A raw, intimate aesthetic that feels both modern and nostalgic.
The trailer hints at homages to classics like True Romance and Bonnie & Clyde, with a dash of Pulp Fiction's quirky energy. But Besson isn't just rehashing old tropes—he's reimagining them for a new era. The chemistry between Price and Eddy is palpable, and the film's DIY vibe adds a layer of authenticity that's hard to fake.
Conclusion: A Bold Experiment in Filmmaking
June & John isn't just a movie; it's a statement. In a time when the world felt like it was falling apart, Besson found a way to create something beautiful. Whether it's the sweeping romance, the gritty action, or the sheer audacity of shooting a feature film on a phone, this project is a reminder that art can thrive even in the most challenging circumstances.
Personal Impressions
I'll admit, I was skeptical when I heard “shot on a phone.” But the trailer won me over. There's something raw and unfiltered about the visuals that feels refreshing in an age of over-polished blockbusters. Matilda Price and Luke Stanton Eddy bring a youthful energy that's infectious, and Besson's direction—even with limited tools—shines through. My only gripe? The lack of a release date. 2025 feels like a lifetime away. Still, June & John has all the makings of a cult classic.
What do you think about filmmakers using unconventional methods like shooting on a phone? Could this be the future of indie cinema, or is it just a gimmick?
