Herbie Hancock has joined the cast of Luc Besson’s sci-fi epic Valerian. The French director announced the news on Instagram Saturday morning, informing followers that "Herbie Hancock is a legend. His music was my only friend at 14… I learn so much listening this genius… I’m proud to have him for a role in #Valerian."

Hancock joins the previously-cast Rihanna in Besson’s *epic* big screen adaptation of the French sci-fi comic, which will be titled “Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets.” Although he didn’t share what Hancock’s role will be. He didn’t share what Rihanna’s role will be either, when her casting was announce about a month ago. All he did say was: "She has a big part!! I’m Sooo excited!!!"

No word on whether Hancock’s role will be equally as "big." Not exactly known for film acting, Hancock does have a few on-screen credits.

The film is an adaptation of a French sci-fi comic"Valérian and Laureline.

Here’s an official plot summary: Set in the 28th century, and rooted in the classic graphic novel series, "Valerian and Laureline" – visionary writer/director Luc Besson advances this iconic source material into a contemporary, unique and epic science fiction saga. Valerian (Dane DeHaan) and Laureline (Cara Delevingne) are special operatives for the government of the human territories charged with maintaining order throughout the universe. Valerian has more in mind than a professional relationship with his partner – blatantly chasing after her with propositions of romance. But his extensive history with women, and her traditional values, drive Laureline to continuously rebuff him. Under directive from their Commander (Clive Owen), Valerian and Laureline embark on a mission to the breathtaking intergalactic city of Alpha, an ever-expanding metropolis comprised of thousands of different species from all four corners of the universe. Alpha’s seventeen million inhabitants have converged over time – uniting their talents, technology and resources for the betterment of all. Unfortunately, not everyone on Alpha shares in these same objectives; in fact, unseen forces are at work, placing our race in great danger.

Clive Owen, Cara Delevingne and Dane DeHaan also star in the project.

With a reported budget of $180 million, Besson has described the film as “kind of ‘Mr. and Mrs. Smith’” but in space. 

Filming begins in France next January for a planned July 2017 release. Weta Digital, Industrial Light & Magic and Rodeo FX (3 of the best visual FX studios on the planet) are on-board to work on the movie.