Review of THX 1138 (1971) by Spyros T — 08 Sep 2011

Very surreal, but also very inventive and thoughtful - for Lucas standards, THX was not only ahead of its time in sound effects, but also in the themes which it portrays, such as the loss of individual for the good of the group, the self-corruption of the human spirit, racism in science fiction, consumerism and even channel-surfing.

The sets and visuals may have dropped jaws 40 years ago, but today they still manage to withstand the test of time. It may suffers somewhat from its simple storyline that keeps it from being great, however, considering that THX is a first time film, I become more and more impressed each time I think about the creation of such a unique look.

Lucas also does a terrific job creating a haunting sense of isolation and loneliness. (Portrayed brilliantly in the prison with no walls scene). Above all I respect and admire such mature work from a first film.

It makes you wonder what Lucas's career would've been like had he stayed making films like this. It's a little depressing to see such talent and then think about what he's used it for.

He had the potential to be a real filmmaker before hacking out Star Wars films for 3 decades. Lucas can spend the rest of his life trying to edit all the little imperfections out of his films, but he's missing the point of making good films in spite of their flaws.