Which 1997 sci-fi film stars Bruce Willis as cab driver Korben Dallas?

The 1997 science-fiction film starring Bruce Willis as cab driver Korben Dallas is “The Fifth Element.”

Directed by Luc Besson, the film is set primarily in the 23rd century and follows Korben Dallas, a former special-forces major who now drives a taxi in a sprawling futuristic New York City. His routine changes when Leeloo, a mysterious woman central to the survival of Earth, crashes into his cab while escaping pursuit.

The story combines space opera, action comedy, romance, and elaborate visual design. Dallas becomes involved with priest and archaeologist Vito Cornelius, industrialist and villain Jean-Baptiste Emanuel Zorg, and flamboyant radio host Ruby Rhod. The plot revolves around four elemental stones and a fifth element needed to oppose an ancient cosmic force of destruction.

The film was conceived and directed by Besson and co-written with Robert Mark Kamen. It became known for its colorful production design, unusual costumes by Jean Paul Gaultier, Eric Serra’s score, and its energetic blend of French and Hollywood science-fiction influences. “Event Horizon,” “Strange Days,” and “Total Recall” are unrelated films from the same broad genre.