20 Black Movie Characters Hollywood Should Learn From

11. SRT (THX 1138)

11_SRT

George Lucas€™s (and I like to also think Walter Murch€™s) first film THX 1138 is certainly scathingly intelligent on many levels, but the character of SRT really brings an interesting element of it home. In the world of THX, the only black people are the ones on TV (holograms in this case) to entertain the common folk, or white people. SRT is one who decides to leave his chosen place, and goes on the run with THX, making some exquisite points along the way through his words and actions. SRT is an extremely interesting character. He doesn€™t realize what he is, or at least how to verbalize it, referring to himself as €œnot real,€ which is really interesting to mull over€”not to mention the meanings of the reactions of THX and SEN when they first see him. SRT excellently highlights an abstract yet perfectly grounded cultural element in the movie. It€™s what€™s great about science fiction, and contributes to the greatness of the movie. The 1970s really knew how to talk about things, and I think audiences today would respond even better to this kind of style. Explore things, Hollywood! We€™d like it! Furthermore, you€™d be advised to consider that some of those whippersnappers like George Lucas who come along now and again may just know their audiences and be successful one day.
Contributor
Contributor

Ian Boucher is many things when he is not writing for WhatCulture.com -- explorer, friend of nature, and librarian. He enjoys stories of many kinds and is fascinated with what different mediums can bring to them. He has developed particular affections for movies and comic books, especially the ones that need more attention, taking them absolutely seriously with a sense of humor. He constantly strives to build his understanding of the relationships between world cultures, messages, and audiences.