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    The Fifth Element

    Reviewed by
    adamwatchesmovies@

    I hear “The Fifth Element” is a polarizing film. People either think it’s great or hyperbolically call it one of the worst summer blockbusters of all time. Even if you don’t care for its exaggerated, campy style, it’s hard to deny that there’s something about this picture that’s magnetic.

    Set in the 23rd century, the story begins when a red-haired woman named Leeloo (Milla Jovovich) falls through the roof of Korben Dallas’ cab (he’s played by Bruce Willis) The former special forces major discovers that she holds the key to recovering four mystical stones and they embark on a quest to save the world from a dark force.

    I don’t remember the first time I saw “The Fifth Element”, but I do remember being in my teens and connecting with it. I also remember my eyes opening up during the sex scenes and brief displays of nudity. How appropriate, considering the film clearly comes from the mind of a sixteen-year-old. Don’t get me wrong. I’m talking about Luc Besson, who, even as sixteen-year-old displayed talent, but it's a teenager's fantasy brought to life. The comic relief; the manly, rugged hero who ditches his regular job to brave danger; the tough, but vulnerable superwoman who is constantly reminded of her beauty; the 5,000-year-old threat of ultimate evil; the way everything's so larger-than-life... It’s clear as day, and also the reason for its appeal.

    This would’ve been a forgettable ordeal had it not been for the bold visuals and the overflowing enthusiasm. Many of the characters are outlandish, but that serves to make them memorable and, more often than not, intentionally hilarious. Chris Tucker as the radio personality Ruby Rhod is my personal favorite. I wish I could quote some of his lines, but he speaks so quickly I only ever catch glimpses (making what I do grasp particularly good) There isn’t a scene or location that doesn’t have one standout visual or idea. Even people’s wardrobes or hair will take you aback. While it’s not deep, it’s fun all the way through. There are plenty of thrills and laughs to keep you entertained and you have to admire it for being exactly what it wants to be.

    Don’t tell me you’ve outgrown or are above “The Fifth Element”, with its thin ideas about love and simple storyline. It's a part of you: a flashback, an acknowledgment to what we were all like at one point or another. Luc Besson knows that you’ve got to look back and laugh at what you thought was awesome but also embraces it. Regardless of everything, there’s no denying that “The Fifth Element” is a high-energy special effects extravaganza that firmly clamps itself into your memory from the first scene and delivers plenty of excitement. (Theatrical version on the big screen, February 6, 2017)

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    adamwatchesmovies@  20.2.2017 age: 26-35 2,867 reviews

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