Leon The Professional Set

Natalie Portman was originally turned down by Todd M. Thaler (the casting director) due to being too young, but she returned to the auditions and performed the scene where Mathilda laments the loss of her brother. Luc Besson was so impressed with the depth of emotion she summoned during the audition that he gave her the role. 

This is Natalie Portman’s motion picture debut. She was 11 when she was cast. 

NATALIE