The Fifth Element

In 2257, former special forces operative Korben Dallas pilots a futuristic taxi through a crowded, neon-soaked city, leading an ordinary life until a violent attack brings him into contact with a mysterious, injured woman named Leeloo. She turns out to be more than human, carrying a vital connection to four elemental stones needed to stop an approaching cosmic threat. Korben is pulled away from his routine and tasked with keeping Leeloo safe while hostile forces and a ruthless industrialist close in. Along the way they cross paths with an eccentric radio host, exasperating allies, and jaw-dropping set pieces, all building toward the effort to assemble the pieces that can save humanity. Its tone mixes frenetic action with quirky comedy too.

Directed by Luc Besson and co-written with Robert Mark Kamen, the film premiered in 1997 and stars Bruce Willis, Milla Jovovich, Gary Oldman, Ian Holm, and Chris Tucker, blending sci-fi spectacle with action and dark humor and striking production design.

The Fifth Element performed well internationally, earning strong audience attention and helping cement its status as a mainstream genre hit, particularly praised for its visual inventiveness and wide appeal across markets. It reached markets across Europe and North America successfully.

Bright, eccentric production design and bold costume choices produced instantly recognizable images, while the flamboyant performance by Chris Tucker and Jovovich's unusual character design influenced later sci-fi aesthetics and fashion, ensuring the film remains frequently referenced in pop culture. Its imagery influenced fashion and inspired later genre filmmakers worldwide too.

Critics were divided, many applauding the film's kinetic energy, visual imagination, and sense of fun, while others faulted its narrative thinness. Central themes include the contrast between heart and technology, resistance against greed, and an unlikely bond that drives the plot forward. Audiences still enjoy its energy and offbeat charm.