With a prolog set in 1914, where a pair of archeologists have
their expedition in an Egyptian temple interrupted by a group of benevolent,
armored aliens, the Fifth Element proves right off the bat that it’s going to be
a much different--and vastly entertaining--ride than the usual cinematic SF fare.
The aliens, known as Mondoshawans, are here to retrieve a set of sacred stones,
as well as a humanoid figure known as the Fifth Element, because they are no
longer safe on Earth, thanks to the coming conflict that will be known as the
First World War. The Mondoshawans promise to return to Earth with the Fifth
Element when the great evil returns in 300 years.
And, 300 years later, an unknown object of immense size intrudes into
Earth-controlled space. A battle cruiser is sent to shoot first and ask
questions later, but it proves to be no match for this expanding globe-shaped
fireball. The Mondoshawans have returned, as promised, but once their ship is
allowed into Earth-controlled space, they are attacked by mercenaries, who force
them to crash on a moon and then steal the sacred stones from the wreckage.
Luckily, Earth scientists are able to rebuild the shattered body of the Fifth
Element from her cells, and when they’re done, they wind up with a hottie named
Leeloo (Milla Jovovich).
Not too keen on being treated like a lab rat, Leeloo escapes the government lab
and crashes into the cab of Korben Dallas (Bruce Willis, in action hero mode,
but it works fine here). Together they set off on a sprawling, comical adventure
where they have to find the stones and save humanity from the ultimate evil.
When I first saw this film, I admit that I didn’t get it at first. The over the
top, slapstick humor caught me off guard, and I hated it. But in the years
since, I’ve come to love the Fifth Element just because of its goofy humor.
Milla Jovovich’s sympathetic performance as Leeloo also goes a long way to
making this film enjoyable. And Gary Oldman turns in another off the wall
portrayal as Zorg, the arms dealer who works for the great evil ball of fire.
Chris Tucker is enjoyably gonzo as Ruby Rhod, the outrageous shock jock with a
raging sex drive, and Ian Holm is funny as the conflicted Vito Cornelius, a
normally peaceful and easy-going priest whose faith in the Fifth Element
requires him to do more and more outlandish things. And while the film is mainly
a comedic romp through the stars, the production design is still visually
stunning, on par with that of the Star Wars films. The Fifth Element may be very
goofy, but it takes place in a well-thought out world. If you’re expecting the
somberness of 2001, you’ll be disappointed. But if you don’t take it seriously,
ignore the gaping plot holes and just enjoy the ride, the Fifth Element can be a
great way to pass two hours.
--SF
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