1997 Film Was Just Ranked the Most ‘Perfect' Sci-Fi Movie That Nobody Remembers'

While audiences historically adore science fiction movies, some films from the genre fade in popularity. However, this doesn't mean said sci-fi films aren't worthwhile.

Collider recently shared a list of 10 "perfect sci-fi films that no one remembers." The ranking, published in March 2026, featured movies like Strange Days from 1995, 1998's The Faculty, and Bicentennial Man, released in 1999.

The Fifth Element from 1997 took home the list's top spot. According to Collider, the Luc Besson-directed film should be even more popular than it is because it's a one-of-a-kind adventure with an unusual love story and striking, bright imagery.

The Film's Director Explained How 'The Fifth Element' Is Different Than Typical American Sci-Fi Movies

Besson, who also wrote The Fifth Element, spoke about the film in a 1997 interview. The French native said that the 1997 movie differs from traditional American sci-fi films as its core is the connection between Korben Dallas, played byBruce Willis, and Leeloo, played by Milla Jovovich.

"To show the opposite of an American type of movie, is the movie is very large at the beginning. 23rd century, everything's changed, 400 flying cabs everywhere. And the more you go into the movie and the more you realized that it's about a man and a woman who has to talk about love. And the final scene is like the shots are just between a man and woman. And, you know, this kind of movement is not typically [in] action American movie," said the director.

During the 1997 interview, Besson also shared that he had always envisioned Willis playing Korben. He explained that the Die Hard actor is the ideal action hero, who can convincingly shoot a gun, but also has a certain vulnerability.

"He's also very charming and very human. And the character was like this in the script. And Bruce was the best for me because he can really play both," said Besson.

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This story was originally published April 24, 2026 at 5:17 PM.