---
title: "The Fifth Element"
year: 1997
canonical_url: "https://www.archytele.com/show/the-fifth-element-1997"
media_type: "movie"
tmdb_id: 18
imdb_id: "tt0119116"
status: "Released"
runtime_minutes: 126
community_rating: 7.6
vote_count: 11876
content_rating: "PG-13"
---

# The Fifth Element (1997) — Television & Cinema Intelligence Dossier

> **Archytele Living Vault Canonical Record**: https://www.archytele.com/show/the-fifth-element-1997

## Executive Summary & Cultural Positioning

The Fifth Element is a science fiction-action film directed by Luc Besson. It was conceived and co-written by Besson and Robert Mark Kamen. The film stars Bruce Willis, Milla Jovovich, Gary Oldman, Ian Holm, and Chris Tucker. The plot is primarily set in the 23rd century. A taxi driver is given a task that will ensure the survival of humanity. The film features a colorful future setting and a search for a legendary cosmic weapon. The Fifth Element was released in 1997 and is also known as Le Cinquième Élément in French. The film has a distinct cast of characters, including a cabdriver who becomes a central figure in the story. The movie involves a great evil and a character named Jean-Baptiste Emmanuel Zorg.

## The Hook & The Verdict

**The Hook**: "A cab driver races to save humanity with a mysterious girl."

### Why Watch
- Stellar sci-fi visuals and costumes
- Bruce Willis in peak action form
- Unique blend of humor and spectacle

### Caveats & Content Note
- Dated CGI in parts
- Some pacing issues in the middle act
- Tone & Suitability: Suitable for teens and up; mild action violence.

**Micro-Themes & Vibe Matrix**: colorful, fast-paced, quirky, epic, futuristic

## Streaming Availability Matrix

| Region | Stream (Subscription) | Free / Ads | Rent / Buy |
| :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- |
| **United States (US)** | Netflix, Philo, YouTube TV, AMC, TNT, Netflix Standard with Ads, Sony Pictures Core Amazon Channel | YouTube Free, Tubi TV | Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Google Play Movies |
| **United Kingdom (GB)** | Sky Go, STUDIOCANAL PRESENTS Apple TV Channel, Now TV Cinema, Studiocanal Presents Amazon Channel | None | Apple TV Store, Amazon Video, Google Play Movies |
| **Canada (CA)** | Netflix, Crave, Starz Amazon Channel, Netflix Standard with Ads, Crave Amazon Channel, Sony Pictures Core Amazon Channel | None | Apple TV Store, Google Play Movies, CosmoGo |
| **Australia (AU)** | Stan | SBS On Demand | JustWatch TV, Apple TV Store, Amazon Video |

## Creative Credits

- **Directed by**: Luc Besson
- **Networks / Studios**: Gaumont

## Key Cast Continuity

- **Bruce Willis** as *Korben Dallas*
- **Milla Jovovich** as *Leeloo*
- **Gary Oldman** as *Zorg*
- **Ian Holm** as *Cornelius*
- **Chris Tucker** as *Ruby Rhod*
- **Luke Perry** as *Billy*
- **Brion James** as *General Munro*
- **Tommy Lister Jr.** as *President Lindberg*
- **Lee Evans** as *Fog*
- **Charlie Creed-Miles** as *David*

## Canonical Frequently Asked Questions

### Q: Is The Fifth Element based on a book?
No, it's an original screenplay by Luc Besson and Robert Mark Kamen.

### Q: What year is the movie set in?
The story takes place in the 23rd century, beginning in 2257.

### Q: Who directed The Fifth Element?
Luc Besson directed and co-wrote the film.

### Q: Is the movie serious or funny?
It blends action and comedy with a light, adventurous tone.

### Q: Does it have a lot of violence?
There is action violence but it's not overly graphic or intense.

## Grounded Source Citations

- [Personal Banking | Fifth Third Bank](https://www.53.com/content/fifth-third/en.html)
- [The Fifth Element - Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Fifth_Element)
- [The Fifth Element (1997) - IMDb](https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0119116/)
- [Saks Fifth Avenue | Designer Clothing, Shoes, Handbags & More](https://www.saksfifthavenue.com/?msockid=3a4a41bd61ee64101613563860a165a7)
- [Ordinal Numbers in English – Rules, List, Usage & Examples](https://vocaberry.com/vocabulary/ordinal-numbers-in-english/)
- [FIFTH Definition & Meaning - Merriam-Webster](https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/fifth)

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*Generated by Archytele Open Intelligence Systems. Data verified against TMDB and JustWatch APIs.*