9 Awesome Movies That Started Out As Short Films
8. THX 1138 (AKA Electronic Labyrinth: THX 1138 4EB)
Before George Lucas created Star Wars he was more interested in art house and experimental cinema, an interest that could be traced back to his student days at USC. It's certainly present in *deep breath* Electronic Labyrinth: THX 1138 4EB.
The short is light on story, taking place in a sterile future where a man called THX 1138 4EB decides to escape, and the authorities try to stop him. Nearly all of the dialogue is computerised, the lead character doesn’t speak and the story is told through the visuals. The abstract nature of it might leave some cold, but given that dialogue is hardly George’s strongest asset – think of Anakin’s review of sand – that’s probably for the best.
The movie, which starred Robert Duvall in the title role, greatly expanded upon the concept, fleshing out the dystopian world and infusing the story with humanity. It’s a cult classic, and fans of Star Wars might be surprised such a cerebral tale came from the mind of George Lucas.