Gary Oldman's Reasons for Making The Fifth Element

Gary Oldman: A Chameleon in Hollywood

Gary Oldman, a distinguished figure in the world of cinema, has portrayed a myriad of characters throughout his illustrious career. From the iconic Zorg in The Fifth Element to his transformation into a real person in Darkest Hour, Oldman's ability to immerse himself in diverse roles has garnered him critical acclaim and numerous accolades.

Jean-Baptiste Emanuel Zorg (Gary Oldman) with the ZF-1 from The Fifth Element

Oldman's remarkable career boasts three Academy Award nominations, an Emmy nomination, and three Golden Globe nominations, demonstrating his exceptional talent and versatility as an actor. However, his journey in the film industry has not been devoid of controversy, as evidenced by his outspoken views on political correctness and the subsequent backlash he faced.

In a candid 2014 interview with Playboy, Oldman expressed his disdain for political correctness, igniting a heated debate. Despite the ensuing controversy, Oldman issued a sincere apology for his remarks, acknowledging the weight of words and their lasting impact. Amidst the uproar, an intriguing revelation emerged about his involvement in The Fifth Element, shedding light on the underlying reasons for his portrayal of Zorg.

Gary Oldman's Favor to Luc Besson

During the aforementioned Playboy interview, Oldman made a disparaging remark about The Fifth Element, expressing his aversion to the movie. This remark sparked curiosity about his decision to partake in the film, considering its status as a beloved sci-fi classic. However, it was revealed that Oldman's portrayal of Jean-Baptiste Emanuel Zorg was an act of reciprocity towards director Luc Besson, emphasizing the symbiotic nature of their professional relationship.

Oldman disclosed that his involvement in The Fifth Element was a gesture of gratitude towards Besson, who had previously supported him in securing financing for a film he was directing. Describing it as 'singing for his supper,' Oldman candidly admitted that his decision was motivated by the desire to repay Besson's assistance. This insight into Oldman's professional integrity provides a compelling perspective on the dynamics of collaboration and reciprocity in the film industry.

Reflections on Past Performances

In addition to his candid remarks about The Fifth Element, Oldman's introspective evaluation extended to his portrayal of Sid Vicious in Sid and Nancy, his second feature film performance. Despite the film's status as a cult classic, Oldman expressed reservations about his own performance, acknowledging his dissatisfaction and lack of interest in the subject matter.

Gary Oldman as Sid Vicious and Chloe Webb as Nancy walking across a bridge in Sid and Nancy.

Oldman's candid assessment of his earlier performances, including The Fifth Element and Sid and Nancy, offers a glimpse into his artistic evolution and personal reflections on his body of work. While his critical self-appraisal may contrast with the adoration these films receive from fans, it underscores the complexity of an actor's relationship with their past roles and the evolving nature of artistic expression.