Moderately diverting, but silly movie

Rating: 6/10 (6 July 2003)

The fifth element tries to combine action, science fiction and humour in a single stylish package. Unfortunately it is not equally successful in all of its endeavours. The plot (about an attempt to reunite four missing stones representing the four elements of earth, air fire and water with a mysterious person representing the fifth element) is full of B-Grade science fiction cliches and frequently strays into the implausible. The action sequences are more successful and occasionally become involving.
The idea of leavening the mix with humour was appealing in concept but, in execution dissolved into stupidity on too many occasions (especially with respect to a very camp talk show host), and jarred with the rest of the movie.
Overall, an average movie, although fans of Bruce Willis may rate it slightly higher.