With the current situation and the concern behind the spread of coronavirus now, its recommended that we work and stay at home as much as possible. Every little thing we can do to help will reduce the spread of the virus, will benefit those around us and hopefully get us out of the situation as soon as possible. Since most of us must spend the next coming weeks for the most part at home, we’d thought we should share 8 movies that you as architects and designers should watch. So, if you are already tired of everything that Netflix or Amazon Prime has to offer, make sure to check these out.
- The belly of an architect (1987)
This movie was released in 1987 and focuses on an architect from Chicago that moves to Rome to curate an exhibition that is devoted to the architect Etienne-Louis Boullée. For those that don’t know Boullée, he was a neoclassical architect known for his visionary approach to architecture. In the movie, the director emphasizes the utopian side of architecture. This film, however, leans more towards the dramatic side, so if you are looking for something more cheerful you should check out the others from the list first.
- Koyaanisqatsi: Life Out of Balance (1982)
This movie explores the contrast between nature and that which is man-made. It brings to light some of the issues of construction and begins as warning for some of the concerns which we face in present times. It depicts a 1970’s America in Missouri, so you will see issues of racism, a decline in the economy, and the lack of political will power. The movie shows the works of Minoru Yamasaki, which is a Japanese American architect which may be best known for designing the original World Trade Center.
- The infinite happiness (2015)
This is a very good movie and a highly recommend one from our list! You will be able to find in on different platforms online for rent. This is a documentary that focuses on Ila Bêka & Louise Lemoine, which move into the 8 House designed by Bjarke Ingelss in Copenhagen. The film revolves around their life inside of the construction and how they intermingle with those that live inside and with the construction itself.
- How Much Does Your Building Weigh, Mr. Foster? (2010)
I’m sure you’ve heard of Norman Foster. Who hasn’t? This film explores Norman Foster’s quest to enhance the lives of those impacted by our designs. It depicts in detail a few of his famous projects and talks about Norman’s view of the future and the ideal society sort of speak. The film has been shown around various of his exhibitions displayed around the world and is one which you should check out if you don’t know much about his work.
- Sketches of Frank Gehry (2005)
This is a film directed by the Academy Award winning director Sydney Pollack. In this documentary you will get to see the life of the famous architect Frank Gehry and some of his best works which include the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, the Walt Disney Concert Hall in Los Angeles, and the Anaheim Ice training rink for the Mighty Ducks. It is a great film which also includes interviews with many other notable people from different professions.
- Archiculture (2011) – United States
This is a short 25-minute film that you can find on YouTube, so no need to take out your purse or wallet and go through much hassle finding it. It takes a vital dive into an architectural studio and the world of design through the eyes and minds of young students. It aims to portray some of the key issues which up and coming architects will face and how that can be guided through different teaching methods. This film won’t take too much of your time and is definitely worth it if you are passionate about architecture.
We hope you enjoy this list and hopefully it will relieve some of the boredom we are going to have in the following days. Are there any other films that you recommend watching? Let us know!
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