Robert Duvall Starred in George Lucas's Dystopian Sci-Fi 6 Years Before Star Wars

The late actor delivered a standout performance in the cult classic THX 1138, which laid the groundwork for Lucas's iconic Star Wars franchise.

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

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Before creating the Star Wars franchise, George Lucas worked with acclaimed actor Robert Duvall on the dystopian sci-fi film THX 1138 in 1971. Though the movie initially underperformed, it later gained a cult following and is now considered one of Lucas's finest and darkest works, with Duvall's performance as the titular protagonist widely praised.

Why it matters

THX 1138 was a radical departure from the grand, fantastical storytelling of Star Wars, presenting a cold, cynical vision of a future where citizens are controlled by android police and mandatory drug use. The film's unique aesthetic and themes of societal oppression and individuality have made it a touchstone of the sci-fi genre, showcasing Lucas's creative vision and directorial skills years before he would achieve global fame.

The details

Released in 1971, THX 1138 was adapted from Lucas's 1967 student film Electronic Labyrinth: THX 1138 4EB. Developed alongside Francis Ford Coppola, the movie initially struggled at the box office but later gained a cult following as the genre of dystopian sci-fi grew in popularity. Duvall's performance as the lead character, subject THX 1138, was widely acclaimed, with the actor later reflecting on his positive experience working with the young Lucas, who he described as "a true filmmaker."

  • THX 1138 was released in March 1971.
  • Duvall discussed his experience working on the film at the San Francisco International Film Festival in 2010.

The players

Robert Duvall

An acclaimed American actor who played the lead role of THX 1138 in George Lucas's dystopian sci-fi film of the same name.

George Lucas

The legendary filmmaker who directed THX 1138 and later created the Star Wars franchise, which went on to become one of the most successful and influential cinematic universes of all time.

Francis Ford Coppola

The legendary filmmaker who collaborated with Lucas on the development of THX 1138.

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What they’re saying

“You know, you have to do a bunch of parts, you got to pay the rent. It didn't hurt my career, but it didn't propel me to any obviously higher levels, so to speak. But it was a wonderful experience working with George Lucas. He was a true filmmaker at a young age.”

— Robert Duvall (The Playlist)

The takeaway

THX 1138 stands as a testament to George Lucas's creative vision and directorial skills, showcasing his ability to craft a dark, dystopian sci-fi tale years before the global success of Star Wars. The film's unique aesthetic and themes of societal control and individuality have cemented its status as a cult classic, with Robert Duvall's standout performance as the lead character further elevating the movie's legacy.