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THX 1138 is a man whose mind and body are controlled by the
government. Freedom is impossible and love is the ultimate
crime. What hope is there of escape?...
In
the future, people are dependent on mind-numbing drugs, and
exist merely as workers and consumers. Hold on! That's now,
isn't it? This is the most startling aspect of THX 1138:
its central themes seem more pertinent now than they were
in 1971, the year of the film's release.
THX
1138 was George Lucas' first feature, and was made many
years before Star Wars: A New Hope, In today's post-blockbuster
era, the climax to THX 1138 will leave most viewers
feeling short-changed, but considering the substance that
comes before the film's end, such a shortcoming (if that's
what it is) can easily be forgiven.
Those
who take pleasure in deconstructing a film's text will have
a field day here, as Lucas had a lot to say on the state of
modern society. Among the many memorable statements are the
eerie robotic Police Officers, and the electronic religious
figure OMM spewing forth recorded platitudes.
Robert
Duvall (THX 1138), Donald Pleasence (SEN 5241) and Maggie
McOmie (LUH 3417) all add their own particular signature to
the unfolding drama. Of note is Pleasance's colourful performance,
which makes for an excellent counterpoint to Duvall's brooding
display of a man struggling with the new experience of love.
After
fiddling with the original Star Wars Trilogy, Lucas
has turned his attention to THX 1138 for this DVD release.
Many argue that the Star Wars films have been diminished
in their Special Edition format, but THX 1138 benefits
enormously from its makeover. The CGI additions have enhanced
the film's visual depth tenfold, while restoration, digital
remastering and a Dolby Digital 5.1 soundtrack have left it
looking and sounding very fresh indeed. Add to that a director's
cut and you have a definitive version of the film that will
be palatable to a modern audience.
Extras? Disc one contains a commentary by Lucas and Co-Writer/Sound
Designer Walter Murch. There is also a focus on the sound
of THX 1138. Disc two sports documentaries and Electronic
Labyrinth THX 1138 4EB, Lucas' original student film.
Fans of heads being shaved will appreciate Bald. The
extras finish with a collection of trailers.
Jeff
Watson
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