Watch Sketches of Frank Gehry

Sketches of Frank Gehry is a documentary film that explores the life and work of iconic architect Frank Gehry. Directed by Sydney Pollack, the film is a fascinating glimpse into the mind of one of the most innovative and influential architects of our time. Through interviews, discussions, and stunning visuals of Gehry's work, the film offers a comprehensive look at the career of this legendary artist.

The film begins with a conversation between Pollack and Gehry, in which they discuss the creative process and the role of intuition in art and architecture. Gehry speaks candidly about his early life, his struggles as a young architect, and the trajectory of his career. In one of the film's most memorable moments, Gehry describes a dream in which he sees a building that he then goes on to design in real life. It's a testament to the power of creative inspiration and the importance of staying open to new ideas and experiences.

Throughout the film, Gehry's work is shown in breathtaking detail, with a focus on his most iconic buildings. The Disney Concert Hall in Los Angeles, the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, and the Dancing House in Prague are all featured, demonstrating Gehry's unparalleled ability to create buildings that are both functional and aesthetically stunning. The film also features interviews with some of Gehry's collaborators and peers, including artist Julian Schnabel and fellow architect Philip Johnson. Their insights give viewers a sense of Gehry's place in the art world and the influence he's had on other artists and architects.

One of the key themes of Sketches of Frank Gehry is the idea that architecture should be accessible to everyone. Gehry talks about his desire to create buildings that are not only beautiful but also serve a practical purpose in the lives of those who use them. This is evident in many of his designs, which often feature open spaces and a sense of visually striking transparency. The film also touches on Gehry's work with charitable organizations, including his involvement in the design of the Children's Museum of Indianapolis.

Overall, Sketches of Frank Gehry is a fascinating look at one of the most important architects of our time. Pollack's direction is masterful, capturing the essence of Gehry's work and exploring the man behind the buildings. The film is both entertaining and informative, offering a compelling glimpse into the creative process and the power of artistic inspiration. Gehry's legacy as an artist and architect is firmly cemented in this insightful and engaging documentary.

Sketches of Frank Gehry is a 2005 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 26 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.1.