Additional Information

Due to the response of American test screenings, twenty minutes was cut from the original version. This extended edition, referred to as the "international version" or "version intégrale", contains controversial footage with scenes such as Mathilda accompanying Léon on a number of his missions (exposing a young child to violence) and Mathilda unsuccessfully attempting a romantic relationship with Léon.

The title, The Professional, is used in reference to the American release.

Natalie Portman makes her on screen debut in this film. She was eleven at the time of filming, and in fact, she was initially turned down for the part of Mathilda due to her age; however, her second attempt impressed Luc Besson enough into offering her the role.