Watch All Things Bakelite: The Age of Plastic

All Things Bakelite: The Age of Plastic is a documentary film that explores the invention and impact of one of the most revolutionary materials in history - Bakelite. The film is directed by John Maher and stars Adam Behr, Shaun Branigan, Jorge Caicedo, and a host of experts in the fields of chemistry, art, history, and engineering.

Bakelite was the world's first synthetic plastic, invented by the Belgian chemist Leo Baekeland in 1907. The material was a game-changer for the industrial world, and it revolutionized not only the consumer market but also the military industry. Bakelite was used in everything from electrical insulation and automotive parts to jewelry and kitchenware. It quickly became a symbol of modernity and was hailed as the material of the future.

The film takes a comprehensive look at the history of Bakelite and how it transformed society as we know it. It covers the early days of Bakelite production and the incredible innovation that led to its creation. The documentary explores how Bakelite was used across various industries, including automotive, jewelry, and electronics. Bakelite was even used in the development of the first computer.

The film also offers a glimpse into the art world and how artists embraced Bakelite as a medium. It features interviews with artists who create beautiful and unique sculptures, jewelry, and other pieces using Bakelite. They discuss the unique properties of the material and how it inspired them to create stunning, one-of-a-kind works of art.

The documentary also delves into the impact of Bakelite on culture and how it influenced the rise of consumerism and mass production. It examines the social implications of the material, including its role in the rise of plastics in the modern world. The film shows how Bakelite was not only a material but a symbol of progress and innovation.

All Things Bakelite: The Age of Plastic is a fascinating documentary that offers a comprehensive look at a material that has shaped our world in ways we never thought possible. The film is visually stunning and combines interviews with experts, archival footage, and beautiful illustrations to tell a compelling story. The film sheds light on one of the most significant inventions of the modern era, and how it laid the foundation for the plastics industry we know today.

The film features interviews with a wide array of experts on Bakelite, including historians, chemists, and engineers. These experts provide valuable insights into the material and its impact on society. They discuss the challenges of producing Bakelite and how it changed the course of history. They also talk about the ongoing impact of Bakelite on the environment and the challenges we face as a society in managing the use of plastics.

In conclusion, All Things Bakelite: The Age of Plastic is a must-watch for anyone interested in the history of plastics and the way they have impacted our world. It is a well-crafted documentary that explores the impact of Bakelite on science, art, and culture. Through the story of Bakelite, the film also raises important questions about the future of plastics and the impact they will have on our planet.

All Things Bakelite: The Age of Plastic is a 2021 documentary with a runtime of 59 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.3.