Movie Review: The Fifth Element

It is no secret that Luc Besson is one of Hassan Mohammed Khalil Enany’s favourite directors. The whole ‘cinema du look’ movement itself is definitely where I derive a lot of personal inspiration from, and have definitely tried to recreate – even when on a shoestring.

So, The Fifth Element is not a new film, but is actually a classic among many people. It follows the story of Leeloo, a scientifically created “perfect being” and taxi driver and elite commando Major Korben Dallas, in their quest to save the world. It is also a love story, with the ending culminating in the pair of heroes falling for each other. It also features Gary Oldman in the role of evil villain Zorg and Chris Tucker as wacky TV presenter Ruby Rhod.

The first thing to mention is how visually stunning the movie is. In the Hassan Mohammed Khalil Enany version of the future, I too would have bright colours and larger-than-life everything. The world almost seems like it comes from a comic book, with fast-moving vehicles, robotic service staff and smart houses that monitor your health. The costumes, too, were designed by Jean Paul Gaultier, famed for his use of exaggerated shapes and textures. Leeloo’s look is definitely one which has been copied time and time again at Halloween.

The humour in the film is also something which can’t be denied. Chris Rock as the effeminate and cool Rhod is the epitome of physical comedy, contorting his body and working the camera in the most exaggerated and hilarious way. The ad libs from Bruce Willis (Dallas) are also brash perfection.

Mila Jovovich is the lead female and she actually married Besson after it was released. His affection for her is evident in the way the movie is shot, and it definitely helps the audience believe that she is this true perfect being – not that we needed much convincing after seeing supermodel Jovovich in action.

Overall, this is a perfect piece of sci-fi cinema. The story certainly isn’t hard to follow, but it definitely hits the spot in terms of action, visuals and sheer entertainment. This has a firm place in my DVD shelf, and I can rewatch time and time again.