Urban planning is not just about buildings and roads; it's about shaping the future of our communities. This curated list of documentaries delves into the intricate world of city design, exploring how urban spaces evolve, the challenges faced by planners, and the innovative solutions being implemented around the globe. Whether you're an urban enthusiast or just curious about how cities work, these films provide a fascinating insight into the heartbeat of urban life.
Urbanized (2011)
Description: Directed by Gary Hustwit, this documentary examines the design of cities and the future of urban life, featuring interviews with architects, planners, and policymakers from around the world.
Fact: The film includes contributions from notable figures like Rem Koolhaas and Enrique Peñalosa, offering a broad spectrum of urban planning philosophies.
Watch Now
Citizen Jane: Battle for the City (2016)
Description: This documentary tells the story of Jane Jacobs, who challenged urban renewal policies in New York City, advocating for vibrant, diverse neighborhoods over sterile urban landscapes.
Fact: The film was produced by Matt Tyrnauer, known for his work on other influential documentaries like "Valentino: The Last Emperor."
Watch Now
The Garden (2008)
Description: This documentary follows the battle over the largest community garden in the U.S., highlighting issues of land use, community rights, and urban agriculture.
Fact: The film won the Audience Award for Best Documentary at the Los Angeles Film Festival.
30 Days Free
The Pruitt-Igoe Myth (2011)
Description: This film looks at the rise and fall of the Pruitt-Igoe housing project in St. Louis, exploring how urban planning decisions can lead to unintended consequences.
Fact: The documentary features interviews with former residents, providing personal insights into the life within the now-demolished housing complex.
30 Days Free
The Human Scale (2012)
Description: This film explores how cities can be designed to better fit human needs, focusing on the work of urbanist Jan Gehl. It's a must-watch for understanding the impact of urban design on daily life.
Fact: The film was screened at the Copenhagen International Documentary Film Festival and has inspired urban planning initiatives worldwide.
30 Days Free
The Endless City (2011)
Description: A journey through the world's megacities, this documentary investigates the challenges of rapid urbanization and the innovative solutions being implemented to manage growth.
Fact: The film was inspired by the book "The Endless City" by Ricky Burdett and Deyan Sudjic, which discusses urbanism in the 21st century.
30 Days Free
The Power of Community: How Cuba Survived Peak Oil (2006)
Description: While not strictly about urban planning, this documentary shows how Cuba adapted its urban agriculture and community structures post-Soviet collapse, offering lessons in resilience and local food production.
Fact: The film has been used in educational settings to discuss sustainable urban living and community resilience.
30 Days Free
The City Dark (2011)
Description: Exploring the effects of light pollution, this film touches on urban planning by discussing how cities can be designed to reduce light pollution while maintaining safety and functionality.
Fact: The documentary was featured at the South by Southwest Film Festival, sparking discussions on urban environmental issues.
30 Days Free
Urban Roots (2011)
Description: This film showcases how urban farming in Detroit has transformed vacant lots into vibrant community spaces, focusing on sustainability and community engagement.
Fact: The film was produced by the same team behind "The Garden," continuing their exploration of urban agriculture.
30 Days Free
The BQE: The Movie (2006)
Description: Focused on the Brooklyn-Queens Expressway, this documentary by Sufjan Stevens looks at the impact of infrastructure on urban life, blending music, history, and urban planning.
Fact: The film was accompanied by a live performance by Stevens, integrating music with the visual narrative of urban development.
30 Days Free
