The Fifth Element (1997)

Bruce Willis and the rest of the ensemble cast are superb in The Fifth Element, an exceptional science-fiction movie of vision and creativity from director Luc Besson. Formerly a top military asset, Korben Dallas (Willis) now leads a shattered civilian life and drives a battered hovercab -- until he is caught up in several intrigues (from the forces of good, the forces of evil, and the government) that intersect and work at cross purposes to each other throughout the movie to suspenseful if often comic effect. Gary Oldman is droll though vile as Jean-Baptiste Emanuel Zorg, a megacorporate tycoon who dispenses weapons and death as easily as he flicks away a spent cigarette. Ian Holm is Father Vito Cornelius, a nervous priest entrusted with a mission from God. And Milla Jovovich is perfect as Leeloo (short for Leeloo Minai Lekarariba Laminai-Tchai Ekbat De Sebat in the Divine Language), the avatar/warrior long promised to save the Universe from destruction -- but she will need help in her darkest hour. I also love every actor in this movie -- from Major Iceborg to the mugger -- and the costumes, my Lord, the costumes! Also don't miss Chris Tucker, who is hilarious as the shock VJ Ruby Rhod (think Prince meets Little Richard). The script is excellent and full of memorable and comic lines, however, the music is simply unforgettable, most notably Plavalaguna's concert before all mayhem breaks loose at the resort. (The soundtrack was electronically engineered to showcase the alien Diva's superhuman vocal coloraturas.) Does Bruce Willis save the day and get the girl? (What do you think?) But it's the panache with which he does so that's totally entertaining! I had to own this movie and will watch it anytime at the drop of a hat. If you like science fiction, you just may too. The thing is, though, even if you have never liked science fiction, you'll surely like this -- The Fifth Element is that good! It should appeal to a broad audience from geeks to fashion models, from action fans to true romantics. 5 stars.