Is There Ever Likely to Be a Sequal to Luc Besson’s 'The Fifth Element'?

Luc Besson’s 'The Fifth Element' is a unique cinematic experience, and many fans are curious about the possibility of a sequel. While the idea of a comeback is intriguing, the prospects are rather slim.

Highly Unlikely for a New Sequel

Considering the current interest among actors and fans, the chances of a new sequel to 'The Fifth Element' are incredibly low. Several actors have expressed differing opinions, with Chris Pratt suggesting he could take on the role of Corbin Dallas, a possibility that might fuel some excitement. However, the likelihood of this happening is quite small.

As an alternative, some enthusiasts have suggested that Paul Anderson, known for his roles in other of Besson’s films, could be a potential actor for the remake. Anderson’s influence and his proven track record in films directed by Besson make him a plausible choice for a potential regeneration of the 'Fifth Element' saga. However, this would depend on Besson's plans and Anderson's availability.

Luc Besson’s Ideas for a Sequel

Luc Besson himself has had ideas for a sequel to 'The Fifth Element.' The film had a working title of 'Mister Shadow,' and Besson believed it could be a brilliantly crafted follow-up. However, financial constraints and budget considerations have likely prevented the release of such a project. The original financing was 92 million euros, a significant amount, especially considering the movie’s underperformance at the box office.

Despite the financial risk, Besson is not entirely pessimistic. Almost 20 years since the original film's release, 'The Fifth Element' still maintains a strong fanbase. In his recent statements, Besson has expressed an interest in a sequel, indicating that he is still exploring the potential for a follow-up.

Stars’ Interest and Budget Challenges

The chances of a sequel would largely depend on the interests of the original stars, Bruce Willis, Chris Tucker, and Milla Jovovich. If they were unavailable or unwilling to return, the production would face significant challenges. While a feature film could be made without these stars, the absence of such a large ensemble cast would likely make the film less appealing to audiences.

Furthermore, any potential sequel would need extensive exposition to make it understandable to today's audience, which would be a lengthy process and potentially more of a remake than a true sequel. The original films’ unique narrative might be too complex to replicate without major changes, which could dilute the essence of the story.

Conclusion: A Remote Possibility

The idea of a sequel to 'The Fifth Element' remains a distant dream. Though Luc Besson has been touting the possibility of a sequel, the budgetary constraints and the careers of the original stars make a definitive answer challenging. Given the supporting evidence and the current state of the film industry, a return to 'The Fifth Element' seems more like wishful thinking than a realistic possibility.