Watch This Space Available

This Space Available is a 2011 documentary that explores the topic of outdoor advertising and the impact it has on our surroundings. The film is directed by Gwenaelle Gobe and narrated by the director herself. It features interviews with various experts on the subject, including urban planners, artists, activists, and advertisers. The film opens with a montage of images of billboards and other types of outdoor ads, accompanied by commentary from the interviewees on the effects of this type of advertising on our environment. They discuss how outdoor advertising has become increasingly ubiquitous, with billboards and signs popping up everywhere from streets and highways to beaches and national parks. They argue that this type of advertising not only detracts from the beauty of our surroundings but also has negative social and environmental impacts.

Throughout the film, we hear from a range of voices on the subject. Urban planners discuss the impact of billboards on the layout and architecture of cities, with many arguing that outdoor advertising is a blight on urban landscapes. Artists and activists talk about their efforts to combat this type of advertising through creative interventions, such as painting over billboards or manipulating them to convey alternative messages.

Meanwhile, advertisers themselves defend the practice of outdoor advertising, arguing that it is a necessary part of the marketplace and that it provides jobs and revenue. They also point to the many regulations and restrictions on outdoor advertising that already exist, such as zoning laws and permit requirements.

As the film progresses, we see how the debate over outdoor advertising intersects with other social and environmental issues. For example, we hear about the impact of billboards on low-income neighborhoods and communities of color, where they are often seen as intrusive and unwanted. We also learn about the role of outdoor advertising in promoting consumerism and contributing to the production of waste and pollution.

Despite the many arguments against outdoor advertising presented in the film, there is no clear-cut solution or consensus among the interviewees. Some argue for more regulation and restrictions, while others suggest that the problem lies deeper in our culture and economy, and that a broader societal shift is needed to truly address the issue.

Overall, This Space Available is a thought-provoking and visually striking documentary that raises important questions about the impact of advertising on our environment and society. It offers a diverse range of perspectives on the subject, and leaves the viewer with plenty to ponder long after the credits roll.