Looking for THX 1138 in a Galaxy Far, Far Away...

It's no secret that author Michael Allen Horne has a strong familiarity with THX. The book describes the centralized information database used by the Corporate Sector Authority, called Operational Multisystem Management - OMM for short. In THX, OMM was the name of the Jesus-like avatar that citizens would confess their sins to and thank for their lives filled with purpose and commerce.

Another THX reference appears in the section devoted to Subliminal Salesmanship - the constantly droning information chatter found in the Corporate sector. Among the messages supposedly playing in worlds of this sector are:

"For more enjoyment and greater efficiency, data access is being standardized, with corresponding rates. Remember, the more expensive the information, the more it must be worth!"

"Let us be thankful we have commerce. Buy more. Buy more now and be happy."

The first is an adaptation of a THX line (it's "consumption" that's standardized in the film). The second is a direct quote of the film.

So even though a gulf of time and distance separate the galaxy of Star Wars from the future world of THX 1138, they have more than a passing resemblance. See for yourself, in theaters on September 10th, or on DVD on September 14th.

May the Force be with you. And be happy.