Luc Besson's cult classic sci-fi film, The Fifth Element, is set to depart Netflix next week, with its last day on the service being September 30.
The 1997 film, starring Bruce Willis as a future New York taxi driver and Milla Jovovich as the titular Fifth Element, has become a beloved piece of cinema for its unique blend of colorful visuals, over-the-top performances, and ambitious world-building. The story follows Korben Dallas as he becomes entangled in a mission to save humanity from a cosmic evil with the help of Leeloo, a divine being.
A Troubled Beginning
Despite its eventual success, the film's production was not without its challenges. Associate producer John Amicarella recounted an incident where a significant portion of the film's negatives, including a pivotal scene featuring a blue-skinned opera singer, were damaged when a forklift ran over them at Los Angeles International Airport. Miraculously, much of the footage was salvaged, allowing the movie to be completed.
A Unique Vision
The Fifth Element stands out for its distinctive aesthetic, a vibrant departure from the often muted tones of contemporary sci-fi. Its future is depicted with bold colors, eccentric costumes designed by Jean-Paul Gaultier, and a general sense of organized chaos. This visual style is matched by its cast, including Gary Oldman as the unhinged industrialist Zorg and Chris Tucker as the flamboyant radio host Ruby Rhod, whose performances are as memorable as the film's visual design.
The film's narrative, which involves divine beings, elemental stones, and a recurring cosmic threat, is delivered with a campy yet earnest sensibility. Amicarella described the film's feel as a mix of comic books, Salvador Dalí paintings, and heavy metal album art. This eclectic approach extends to its surprisingly sensual themes, with costumes and character designs that evoke a sense of playful glamour.
Enduring Appeal
Beneath its spectacle and strange humor, The Fifth Element is fundamentally a story about hope and the power of love. Its enduring appeal, nearly three decades after its release, can be attributed to its willingness to take risks and its earnest, albeit unconventional, message. For those who haven't experienced it, or for fans looking to revisit, the final days on Netflix offer a prime opportunity to watch a blockbuster that dared to be different.