Protecting The Innocent!
As Leon and Mathilda's experiences together become more intense, Mathilda's repeated assertion of love begins to breakdown Leon's emotional barriers. Protecting her becomes Paramount, as do Mathilda's efforts to prove her love for him. For Mathilda, his desire to protect her, is not enough and his unwillingness to express his own love, often takes Mathilda's actions to the extreme. The best example of this is the Russian Roulette scene. This moment between them is very emotional. Fear and Anger dominate this scene, and the result is a powerful awakening for Leon. Only when he is faced with the possibility of losing her, does he realize for the first time, that he really loves her. Definitely one of my favorite scenes!
Why did Besson feel he needed to cut this scene, and others from the Theatrical Release?
I can understand him wanting to protect Mathilda's innocence, but at the same time, her youth and immaturity, is the essence of who she is. For me, the focus on her naivety, is what makes her story so compelling. Although this scene and others may diminish her childhood a bit, I believe this scene also helps to establish who Mathilda will become, a very strong minded person, a trait needed for the survival, in her new world.
Did Besson make the right choice when he cut these scenes? Looking back, the way the film is perceived even today, maybe he did.