- S: This is one of the few very far-reaching Sci-Fi films that I think does a good job of explaining the idiosyncracies of the world. Only one scene feels out of place: where THX appears to
be controlled remotely by two somewhat haphazard operators.
- C: Visually stunning. The film has great sets of minimalism followed by some sets with insane detail. However, the most impressive part of the film is the soundscape.
The sound of the communications, the computers, the manufacturing, the cars, are all so distinct and memorable. This film might actually be better with headphones.
- E: The film is a slow-burner, but its never boring. There is always so much to take in visually and aurally that the slow parts of the story don't feel burdensome. Maggie McOmie and Robert Duvalls'
performances feel like a near perfect fit for the style and energy of the film.
- N: Excellent Kafkaesque science fiction. There are so many scenes that feel just like a futuristic version of a modern day thing: the work schedule, the policing, the court room, and
the religious elements all seem like prescient imaginations of something always not too far away. I particularly enjoyed the emphasis on budgetary constraints in the oversight's decision making.
I don't think there are many science fiction films with that nuance.
- T: The film received three bonus points: one for the incredible soundscape of the film, one for the plethora of scenes that are simultaneously haunting and stunning, and one for the car chase scene.
The film is way ahead of its time and clearly demonstrates an influence on tons of major Sci-Fi films that come out decades after this one.
This film is not talked about enough. It reminds me quite a bit of Tarkovsky films in its relatively slow pacing with an emphasis on a literal and metaphorical wandering. Extreme excellence from George Lucas,
and I wish he had made more films like this.
Number of Watches: 1
