Watch Frank Lloyd Wright: Murder, Myth and Modernism

Frank Lloyd Wright: Murder, Myth and Modernism is a 2005 biographical documentary about the life and work of the famous architect Frank Lloyd Wright. The film features actor Matthew Rhys as the voice of Wright, narrating his story and discussing his legacy. Directed by Judith Pearlman and produced by PBS, the film presents a comprehensive overview of Wright's career, his architectural innovations, and the controversies that surrounded him.

The movie starts with a brief overview of Wright's childhood and his early experiences in the architecture field. It then focuses on his iconic buildings, such as the Fallingwater house in Pennsylvania and the Guggenheim Museum in New York. The documentary explores Wright's unique style, characterized by his use of natural materials and his integration of interior and exterior spaces. It also highlights his philosophy of organic architecture, which emphasized harmony between buildings and their surroundings.

However, the film doesn't shy away from addressing the controversies that marked Wright's life. It delves into his personal life, including his many affairs, failed marriages, and his difficult relationship with his children. The documentary discusses the tragic events that took place in 1914, when a servant set fire to Wright's residence, killing several people, including his mistress Mamah Cheney. The incident thrust Wright into the national spotlight and forever marked his reputation.

The film also touches on Wright's political views, which were often controversial. He was known for his strong opinions on democracy and capitalism, and for his opposition to World War II. The documentary discusses the ways in which Wright's political beliefs influenced his architecture, particularly his efforts to build affordable housing for the working class.

One of the most fascinating aspects of the film is its exploration of the mythic persona that Wright cultivated around himself. As the documentary notes, Wright was not only an architect but also a master storyteller, skilled at crafting myths about himself and his work. The film examines the ways in which Wright's persona helped to shape his legacy, as well as the ways in which it contributed to his downfall.

Overall, Frank Lloyd Wright: Murder, Myth and Modernism is a fascinating look at a complex figure. The film offers a nuanced portrait of Wright, highlighting both his architectural genius and his many flaws. It is a must-watch for architecture enthusiasts, as well as for anyone interested in the intersection of art, politics, and personality.

Frank Lloyd Wright: Murder, Myth and Modernism is a 2005 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.8.