Unfortunately most of the science fiction films of the 1970s were not much influenced by 2001 A Space Odyssey. Skillfully directed by Stanley Kubrick, 2001. which appeared in 1968, set new standards for science fiction films. During the next decade, every one of the dozens of science fiction movies released was compared to 2001 , and all but a few were found sadly lacking. Admittedly, Kubrick had one of the largest budgets ever for a film of this kind, but, in my opinion, much of the movie's power and appeal was achieved through relatively inexpensive means. For example, the musical score, which was adapted in large part from well-known classical compositions, was reinforced by the use of almost kaleidoscopic visual effects, especially during the space travel sequences. Spectacular camera work was edited to correspond precisely to the ebb and flow of the music. After 2001, the dominant theme of science fiction films shifted from the adventures of space travel to the problems created on earth by man's mismanagement of the natural environment and the abuse of technology by a totalitarian state. Overpopulation and the accompanying' shortages of food prompt the state to impose extraordinary controls on its citizens. No fewer than twenty-nine films were made around this theme in the years between 1970 and 1977, including Survivors and Chronicles. In the opinion of this reviewer, until Star Wars was released in 1977, science fiction films were reduced to shallow symbolism disguising to a greater or lesser degree a series of repetitive plots. But Star Wars was different. It offered us a return to imaginative voyages in space and confrontation with intelligent life on other planets. Unlike the other science fiction films of the decade, Star Wars presented technology as having solved rather than aggravated ecological problems. The special effects created to simulate space vehicles hurtling through the blackness of the universe were reminiscent of the artistic standards set by 2001. In the author's opinion, most of the science fiction films released in the 1970s were ______.