The director, whose career began with a sci-fi feature, 'The Last Battle,' and later delivered the cult classic 'The Fifth Element,' expressed excitement about exploring new territory. "It’s going to be crazy, believe me. Maybe you will need a ticket and an aspirin at the same time. I’m older, so I’m trying to explore everything now," he remarked, highlighting the evolution of special effects from 'The Fifth Element's' 182 to 'Valerian's' 4,000.

Besson also shared his pragmatic view on technological advancements like AI, seeing them merely as tools rather than threats. "This whole technical evolution… As a director, you just digest it. It’s always just a tool," he stated, likening AI to a tiger that a skilled handler can manage.

No stranger to the Venice festival, Besson was present as a producer for 'Father Joe,' a film directed by Barthélémy Grossmann starring Kiefer Sutherland and Al Pacino. Pacino, who missed the press conference but sent a video message, praised Besson. Reflecting on his role as a producer, Besson emphasized respecting the director's vision: "I don’t want to be bothered when I’m a director so I tried not to bother [Barthélémy]."

His passion for directing remains undimmed, particularly when a project deeply resonates with him. "I have to feel that I’m the best director to do it," he explained, citing 'The Big Blue' as an example. Conversely, he's happy to produce films like 'Taken' or 'Father Joe' when he feels other directors can execute them better. Recently, Besson helmed 'Dracula: A Love Tale,' reuniting with his 'Dogman' star Caleb Landry Jones and Christoph Waltz. He confessed his aversion to horror but was drawn to 'Dracula' as a love story, driven by his admiration for Jones, whom he calls a "genius."

Besson also offered insights into the genesis of his iconic films. He recounted the peculiar inspiration for 'Léon: The Professional,' stemming from observing a man in a coat on a hot Parisian day, leading to the development of a killer who finds purpose through a young girl and a plant. He also touched upon the challenges and pride associated with 'The Messenger: The Story of Joan of Arc,' humorously noting the care required when "talking to God."

In a lighter moment, Besson recalled directing Madonna's music video for "Love Profusion." He described Madonna's direct approach – a last-minute call to replace a director – and his frantic preparation. "She’s a phenomenon," he concluded about the pop icon.

Addressing recent controversies, Besson was cleared of sexual assault allegations and reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to filmmaking. "I’m going to make movies or I’m going to die," he declared, describing directing as an innate, almost visceral calling.

He concluded with advice for aspiring filmmakers, stressing the paramount importance of passion. "If you are not passionate as an artist, if it’s not in your DNA… The success doesn’t matter... If you are not passionate, just don’t do it." He urged young directors to maintain their artistic integrity amidst industry pressures, prioritizing authenticity over compromise.