Canadian avant-garde director Arthur Lipsett (1936–1986) mainly made short experimental films. Lipsett had a particular passion for sound and creating auditory sensations. A fine example is Very Nice, Very Nice, which was nominated for the 1962 Oscar for Best Short Film. Although the film did not win, it received much praise from critics and directors.
Stanley Kubrick was one of Lipsett’s fans and asked him to make a trailer for Dr. Strangelove. Lipsett turned down Kubrick’s offer. In the trailer that Kubrick ultimately directed himself, Lipsett’s influence is clearly visible. Lipsett’s film 21-87 had a major influence on George Lucas, who incorporated elements of it into THX 1138, his Star Wars films, and American Graffiti.
Lipsett’s success gave him some freedom, but that quickly disappeared as his films became more bizarre. He struggled with mental health issues and was diagnosed with manic depression. Lipsett committed suicide in 1986, two weeks before his 50th birthday.