The Fifth Element, a sci-fi masterpiece directed by Luc Besson, is renowned for its stunning visuals, innovative storytelling, and memorable soundtrack. Among the film’s standout moments is the Diva Dance, a mesmerizing operatic performance that captivated audiences worldwide. However, what many people didn’t know is that the Diva Song was initially considered impossible to sing due to its sheer complexity and range. In this article, we dive into the fascinating story behind the creation of the Diva Song and how it was brought to life against all odds.
The Fifth Element Diva Song Was Literally Impossible to Sing Until Now
The iconic Diva Song from The Fifth Element, performed by the alien character Plavalaguna, presented an immense challenge for any singer brave enough to tackle it. With its rapid vocal acrobatics, soaring high notes, and intricate melody, the song pushed the boundaries of human vocal capabilities. The sheer difficulty of the composition made it seem unattainable for even the most skilled opera singers. However, the seemingly impossible task was about to be conquered.
The Vocal Range Conundrum
One of the primary reasons the Diva Song was deemed impossible to sing was its demanding vocal range. The song spans an astonishing five octaves, requiring a singer to seamlessly transition between low, mid, and high registers with precision and agility. It seemed unlikely that any vocalist could possess such an extraordinary range while maintaining control and musicality.
A Collaboration of Talent
Overcoming the challenges of the Diva Song required a collaboration of immense talent and ingenuity. Luc Besson, the film’s director, enlisted the help of composer Éric Serra, renowned for his experimental and unconventional approach to music. Together, they embarked on a quest to find a singer capable of conquering the vocal Everest that was the Diva Song.
The Discovery of Inva Mula
After an extensive search, the filmmakers discovered Inva Mula, an Albanian opera soprano with a reputation for her incredible vocal prowess. Mula possessed the rare combination of technical skill, vocal range, and emotional depth required to bring Plavalaguna’s character to life. Her ability to seamlessly navigate the complexities of the Diva Song made her the ideal candidate for the challenging role.
Unlocking the Secrets of the Composition
Éric Serra’s composition for the Diva Song was no ordinary piece of music. It incorporated elements of opera, electronic music, and futuristic soundscapes, creating a unique sonic tapestry. Mula worked closely with Serra and vocal coach Pierre Babolat to dissect the song, unravel its intricacies, and develop a strategy for its execution. Countless hours of practice, experimentation, and refinement were invested to master the performance.
The Vocal Technique
To overcome the challenges posed by the Diva Song, Mula relied on her extensive training in classical singing techniques. She employed a combination of bel canto, a style emphasizing vocal agility and control, and modern vocal techniques to navigate the demanding vocal range and execute the rapid-fire melodic passages. Mula’s mastery of breath control and her impeccable vocal technique allowed her to conquer the song’s complexities with precision and grace.
The Performance: A Defining Moment
When the time came for Inva Mula to perform the Diva Song on set, anticipation was high. The scene itself was a masterpiece of visual effects, with Plavalaguna’s alien anatomy seamlessly synchronized with Mula’s performance. As Mula took the stage, she embodied the character and delivered a flawless rendition of the Diva Song, captivating both the characters within the film and the audience watching in awe.
The Impact and Legacy
Inva Mula’s groundbreaking performance of the Diva Song in The Fifth Element forever altered the perception of what was considered possible in vocal artistry. Her achievement showcased the human capacity to transcend limitations and breathe life into seemingly impossible compositions. The song’s impact reverberated beyond the film, inspiring countless singers to push their boundaries and explore the uncharted territories of their own vocal abilities.
Conclusion
The Fifth Element’s Diva Song stands as a testament to the power of human creativity, perseverance, and collaboration. Through the remarkable talent of Inva Mula and the visionary genius of Luc Besson and Éric Serra, the seemingly impossible became a reality. The Diva Song continues to captivate audiences, reminding us of the boundless potential of art to transcend limitations and create moments of pure magic.
