‘The Fifth Element’ Is A Beautiful Disaster
The Fifth Element has a loyal fanbase. But it’s something of a polarizing effort. It’s a film that you either love or hate, without much middle ground. I am a massive fan. But on the other hand, I can see why some people aren’t as enamored with it as I am. I see The Fifth Element as a beautiful disaster that values style over substance but nonetheless manages to be supremely entertaining. The elaborate set design, frenetic pace, and outrageous characters give the flick a certain chaotic energy. With the film observing 26 years since its theatrical release this month, we thought now was the perfect time to take a celebratory look at this iconic effort.
The story plays out in the 23rd century and follows retired military man Korben Dallas (Bruce Willis) who now works as a cab driver. When a mysterious woman (Milla Jovovich) falls out of the sky and into his cab, he finds himself involved in a desperate quest to collect a series of ancient stones before they fall into the wrong hands and lead to the extinction of mankind.
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I suspect some detractors may be put off by how bizarre and nonsensical the film is. Not to mention, the chaotic storyline that throws absolutely everything at the wall to see what sticks while moving so frantically that the average viewer is prone to come out of the experience with whiplash. But I think that’s part of what makes The Fifth Element such a delightful experience. It’s unique, it’s unusual, it’s candy for the eyes. It’s a flick for the MTV generation. So, it only seems appropriate that the picture plays out a lot like a feature-length music video. That distinction is especially noticeable in the third act, which is essentially one long action sequence.
Even if you’re in the camp of people that don’t connect with the film, you can’t say that The Fifth Element isn’t a masterwork of imagination. Though the overarching theme of good versus evil isn’t anything new, the finer details bring so much creativity to the proceedings. Co-writer and director Luc Besson brings his vision to life with vivid colors that dance off the screen, gorgeous set design, beautifully rendered practical effects and creature design, costumes created by Jean Paul Gaultier, outrageous hairstyles, and a zany narrative that only continues to get stranger with each passing minute.
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Aside from being incredibly imaginative, The Fifth Element also has a great sense of humor. It’s full of bizarre and comical exchanges that make the somewhat lengthy runtime move along brusquely. Although The Fifth Element is rarely laugh-out-loud funny, the unorthodox gags and moments of dark comedy should be more than enough to keep even the most easily distracted viewer engaged throughout.
In addition to being visually stunning and frequently chaotic, the film also boasts an exceptional cast. We have Bruce Willis in his prime as our rugged but sexy action hero; Milla Jovovich in one of the most dynamic roles of her career to date; Chris Tucker in a gender-bending turn that was decades ahead of its time; Gary Oldman as the larger than life, scenery-chewing villain; and even a brief supporting turn from the late Luke Perry. That’s quite an impressive lineup, to say the least.
All things considered, The Fifth Element is whimsical, fantastical, and a tremendous amount of fun to take in. The flick features wall-to-wall action and continuously moves at a breakneck pace. If you’ve somehow missed out on this chaotic gem or you’re ready to give it a second chance, you’re in luck. The film is available to stream for free (with ads) on YouTube as of the publication of this post.
Categorized:Editorials
