10 Amazing Facts About The Fifth Element For fans of quirky sci-fi, "The Fifth Element" stands out as a unique gem of the genre. This 1997 movie by Luc Besson is filled with colorful characters, imaginative settings, and plenty of behind-the-scenes stories that only add to its charm. If you're curious about some lesser-known facts regarding this cult classic, here’s a detailed look at 10 amazing insights that highlight its intriguing production and cultural impact.
1. 8,000 Auditions for Lilu
Over 8,000 actresses auditioned for the role of Leeloo, the mysterious character played by Milla Jovovich. Luc Besson himself reviewed around 300 auditions before selecting Jovovich, who he believed could represent various cultures, enhancing the film's bizarre aesthetic.
2. Chris Tucker’s Role as Ruby Rhod
Originally, the flamboyant character Ruby Rhod was envisioned to be played by none other than Prince. However, the artist turned down the role due to its feminine costume designs. Chris Tucker eventually filled in, crafting an unforgettable and energetic performance inspired by Michael Jackson.
3. Creating a Unique Language
The alien language spoken by Leeloo is entirely made up. Jovovich and Besson constructed this unique dialect, consisting of 400 words, which they practiced by sending letters to each other, thus keeping their invented language alive during production.
4. The Blue Diva Scene
The captivating opera scene features a character played by Besson’s then-wife, Maïwenn Le Besco. Originally, another actress was slated for the role but dropped out. Hence, Le Besco's stunning blue appearance was both a surprise and a breathtaking moment for the cast during filming.
5. Musical Connections
Eric Serra composed the film's score, and interestingly enough, several musical cues were first heard in the James Bond film “GoldenEye.” Fans of both films might recognize this reused scoring in action sequences.
6. Trilogy Blueprint
Luc Besson initially envisioned "The Fifth Element" as part of a trilogy. He wrote scripts for three films, but ultimately, only the first was produced. It’s an intriguing thought to consider how the story could have expanded beyond its well-contained universe.
7. Gary Oldman's Favor
Gary Oldman’s portrayal of antagonistic corporate mogul Zorg came about as a favor to Besson. They had collaborated previously on "Léon: The Professional," and to return the gesture of old, Oldman took on the role, delivering a performance filled with eccentric charm.
8. No Face-off for Heroes and Villains
In an unusual twist, Bruce Willis's Korben Dallas never meets Zorg face-to-face. This absence of a showdown is unconventional for a sci-fi adventure but adds to the film’s quirky narrative structure.
9. Alternative Cast Choices
Before Bruce Willis was confirmed for the role of Korben Dallas, Mel Gibson was Besson’s second choice. It’s a fascinating notion that the film could have taken a completely different direction with Gibson at the helm.
10. Inspiration from Youth
Besson began writing "The Fifth Element" when he was only 16 years old, crafting stories that were an escape from his mundane life in rural France. It took over two decades for his vision to come to fruition on the big screen, which makes the film even more personal.
Conclusion
"The Fifth Element" remains a standout in science fiction, blending humor, action, and striking visuals into a cohesive narrative. Its impact resonates in pop culture, and the quirky production anecdotes only enhance its legendary status. What’s your favorite fact or moment from the film? Share your thoughts and let’s dive into this captivating universe together!
