Movie spotlight
Bald: The Making of 'THX 1138'
The film features a conversation between Lucas and Francis Ford Coppola, producer of THX 1138. They discuss Lucas' vision for the film, including his ideas about science fiction in general and in particular his concept of the "used future" which would famously feature in his film Star Wars. Intercut with this discussion is footage shot prior to the start of production of THX 1138 showing several of its actors having their heads shaved, a requirement for appearing in the film. In several cases the actors are shown being shaved in a public location. For example, Maggie McOmie is shaved outside the Palace of Fine Arts in San Francisco, while Robert Duvall watches a sporting event as his hair is cut off. Another actor, Marshall Efron, who would later play an insane man in the film, cut off his own hair and was filmed doing so in a bathtub.
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Plot Summary
In a bleak, subterranean future society, citizens are controlled by omnipresent authority and drugged into docility. THX 1138, a factory worker, attempts to escape this oppressive regime after his mandatory sedatives are secretly switched off. He navigates a dangerous world of surveillance, robotic police, and social breakdown, seeking freedom with his lover, LUH 3417.
Critical Reception
George Lucas's directorial debut, THX 1138, was met with mixed to positive reviews upon its release. Critics praised its unique visual style, inventive sound design, and ambitious dystopian vision, though some found its pacing slow and its narrative underdeveloped. Over time, it has gained a cult following and is recognized as an influential early work in science fiction cinema.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its innovative visual and auditory landscape.
Noted for its unique and chilling portrayal of a futuristic dystopia.
Some found the narrative to be sparse and the characters detached.
Google audience: Audiences generally appreciate THX 1138 for its thought-provoking themes and distinctive atmosphere, with many highlighting its originality and influence on later sci-fi films. Some viewers find its deliberate pacing and bleak outlook challenging.
Fun Fact
The distinctive "THX 1138" name originated from George Lucas's own social security number, with the numbers serving as a surrogate for a name in a society that suppresses individuality.
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