Gary Oldman, one of Britain’s most acclaimed actors, has confessed that there is only a single Gary Oldman movie he regrets and refuses to revisit: his outlandish turn as the villain Zorg in “The Fifth Element.” Despite his celebrated career and countless transformative roles, Oldman has publicly revealed deep discomfort with his work in that particular film and even admitted to never having seen it fully since its release.
Oldman’s Rise and Renown in the Acting World
Beginning in the 1990s, Gary Oldman ascended rapidly as an actor, becoming a sought-after force in both British and international cinema. His performances in films such as “Sid and Nancy,” “JFK,” and “Leon,” earned him a reputation not just as a stellar character actor but as a performer capable of tackling both dramatic and operatic roles. Oldman’s body of work became so revered that he was eventually knighted, a reflection of how widely recognized he is as a powerhouse and one of the most influential figures among his generation of performers. Throughout his career, Oldman repeatedly pushed the boundaries of his craft by inhabiting complex characters with remarkable intensity.
The Fifth Element and a Risky Choice
Venturing further into high-energy roles, Oldman agreed to play Jean-Baptiste Emanuel Zorg, the over-the-top villain in Luc Besson’s sci-fi hit “The Fifth Element.” The movie, known for its unique visual style and blend of humor with operatic spectacle, demanded a performance that leaned into eccentricity. In the role of Zorg, Oldman delivered memorable moments, such as remaining unflinching while a dramatic explosion occurred only feet away from him. While this type of exaggerated performance arguably fit the film’s style, Oldman later revealed extreme dissatisfaction with his own work in the project.
Oldman’s Honest Appraisal of His Performance
Not long after “The Fifth Element” hit screens and divided critics, Oldman expressed regret about his involvement. The film itself was nominated for “Worst Director” and “Worst Picture” at the Stinkers Bad Movie Awards, yet it also drew praise for its costume design and received an Oscar nomination for “Best Sound Editing.” Despite the cult following the film would gain in later years for its bold vision and memorable performances, Oldman personally struggles to watch himself in it.
He once told Playboy that he “can’t bear it” whenever the film appears, reflecting his conflicted feelings about the project. —Gary Oldman, Actor
Why Oldman Accepted the Role
While many fans and observers have wondered why such an accomplished actor would take a part in such an exaggerated film, Oldman’s reasoning was straightforward and personal. In 2016, he clarified his motivations for participating in “The Fifth Element,” disclosing that personal loyalty, rather than the script or role, drove his decision. He elaborated:
“I had made a film, and Luc Besson was one of the producers; he helped me finance my film […]. He called me saying: ‘I need you to make a film’. I hadn’t read the script.”
—Gary Oldman, Actor
This candid revelation shows how favors and professional relationships can sometimes influence even the most respected actors in their career choices. Oldman’s choice to help Luc Besson, one of the producers on a previous film for Oldman, led to his involvement in a movie he later found difficult to appreciate.
The Aftermath and Enduring Legacy
Although “The Fifth Element” is the one Gary Oldman movie he regrets, the experience did not hinder his career. In the years that followed, Oldman continued to impress audiences with a series of acclaimed performances. He took on dramatic roles as Sirius Black in the “Harry Potter” film series, showcasing yet again his ability to anchor beloved franchises. Oldman also played Jim Gordon in Christopher Nolan’s “The Dark Knight” trilogy, earning praise for adding depth and humanity to the role.
Oldman further expanded his range by inhabiting real-life figures, most notably taking home an Academy Award for his portrayal of Winston Churchill in “Darkest Hour.” Continuing his collaborations with major directors, he joined Nolan’s ensemble in “Oppenheimer,” demonstrating his willingness to embrace challenging material.
Though Oldman finds aspects of his appearance in “The Fifth Element” cringeworthy—particularly when reflecting on its more outrageous moments and his villain’s striking look—he acknowledges the experience as just one minor misstep among an otherwise extraordinary collection of roles.
The Broader Impact of Oldman’s Candidness
Gary Oldman’s frank reflection on the one film he regrets provides a rare glimpse into the pressures and choices faced by successful actors. His account also highlights how personal relationships, obligations, and fleeting favors can sometimes outweigh artistic preference. While “The Fifth Element” continues to be celebrated by a devoted audience as a cult sci-fi milestone, it stands as a testament to the unpredictable paths artists navigate throughout their careers. For Oldman, embracing both triumphs and stumbles has only strengthened his enduring reputation among fans, critics, and peers alike.
