Architecture is not just about buildings; it's about the stories, the vision, and the people behind these structures. This curated list of films delves into the lives of architects, showcasing their creative struggles, triumphs, and the impact of their work on society. Whether you're an architecture enthusiast or simply love a good story, these films offer a unique perspective on the world of design.
The Towering Inferno (1974)
Description: This disaster film features the Glass Tower, an architectural marvel that becomes a death trap when it catches fire, highlighting the potential dangers in architectural design.
Fact: The film was one of the first to combine elements of both a disaster movie and a critique on architectural hubris.
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The Devil's Advocate (1997)
Description: The film includes scenes in a luxurious, architecturally significant apartment in New York, which serves as a backdrop to the unfolding drama.
Fact: The apartment was designed by the famous architect Philip Johnson.
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The Day After Tomorrow (2004)
Description: While primarily a disaster film, it features the New York Public Library, showcasing its architectural grandeur amidst the chaos of a climate catastrophe.
Fact: The film used CGI to depict the library's destruction, highlighting its architectural significance.
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The Lake House (2006)
Description: This romantic drama involves a unique architectural element where two people living in the same house but two years apart communicate through letters left in the house's mailbox.
Fact: The film was shot in Chicago, and the house was designed by the architect George W. Maher.
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The Ghost Writer (2010)
Description: While not solely about architecture, the film features an architect's house designed by Adam Lang, a former British Prime Minister, which plays a crucial role in the plot.
Fact: The house in the film was designed by the real-life architect John Lautner.
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The Adjustment Bureau (2011)
Description: This film involves a mysterious organization that controls human fate, with scenes set in architecturally striking locations like the New York City Hall.
Fact: The film's director, George Nolfi, was inspired by the architecture of New York for many key scenes.
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The Intern (2015)
Description: While focusing on an older intern at a tech startup, the film features a beautifully designed office space, showcasing modern architecture and interior design.
Fact: The office set was designed to reflect a modern, open-plan workspace, which was a key element in the film's aesthetic.
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The Shape of Water (2017)
Description: While not directly about architects, the film's setting in a beautifully designed, mid-century modern house showcases the aesthetic appeal of architectural design.
Fact: The film won the Academy Award for Best Production Design, highlighting its attention to architectural detail.
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The Fountainhead (1949)
Description: This film adaptation of Ayn Rand's novel explores the uncompromising vision of architect Howard Roark, who fights to maintain his artistic integrity against societal pressures.
Fact: The film was directed by King Vidor, and Gary Cooper's portrayal of Roark was both critically acclaimed and controversial for its portrayal of individualism.
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My Architect (2003)
Description: A documentary by Nathaniel Kahn, who explores the life and work of his father, the renowned architect Louis Kahn, revealing personal and professional aspects of his life.
Fact: The film won the Grand Jury Prize at the Sundance Film Festival in
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