Bickels [Socialism]

"Bickels [Socialism]" is a distinctive documentary that belongs to the unique genre of architecture and political philosophy. Directed by the Israeli film director Heinz Emigholz, the movie first premiered at the Berlin International Film Festival in 2017. It is a visual exploration and insightful critique of the architectural designs and theories laid out by modernist architect Samuel Bickels (1909-1975). The film also inhabitants the space created by his designs, adding a layer of complexity and depth that goes beyond the surface details.

At the same time, "Bickels [Socialism]" connects the structures of Bickels' creations to the principles and ethos of socialism. It investigates how the architectural decisions reflect the political and social ideas that socialism puts forth, making it an intellectually stimulating watch beyond the aesthetics.

The film is divided into two parts, which allows for a deeper exploration of the topic. In the first part titled "Commemoration", the focus is on the Bickels-designed museum in Yad Mordechai, Israel. Emigholz used the museum built in the 1960s as a tribute to the fighters of the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising as a symbol for the ideals and aspirations embedded in socialist movements. It showcases the spirit of community, equality, and shared ownership that socialism advocates for, as the kibbutz movement in Israel was influenced by socialist ideals. Through a contemplative look at its architectural features, the viewers are invited to delve deeper into symbolisms and meanings that the building carries.

In the second part of the film called "The Kibbutz", the focus expands to other kibbutzim throughout Israel. The Kibbutz Hulata, Kibbutz Merchavia, Kibbutz Ein Hashofet, Kibbutz Yad Mordechai, Kibbutz Ashdot Yaakov, Kibbutz Neot Mordechai, Kibbutz Amir, Kibbutz Yiftach, and Kibbutz Gesher Haziv are among the ones featured, each of them based on socialist notions of communal living and collectivism. The architectural styles in these communities range from the industrial to the utopian, reflecting the spectrum of socialist principles and the historical changes that these principles underwent.

"Bickels [Socialism]" is designed as a visual treat, detailing each part of the structures with meticulous attention. Emigholz's camera roams freely, focusing on details that are often missed - the corners of rooms, stairwells, the way the light enters through the gaps in the structure. The choice of pacing and the camera angles allow the viewer to feel a part of the space. There is no explanatory narrative, which invites the viewers to develop their interpretations and connections between the spaces they see and the underlying philosophical and social commentaries.

Additionally, there seems to be an undercurrent of melancholy in the visual language. The architectural creations, once vibrant and filled with life, now have an air of abandonment or decay. This reinforces a sense of changing times and ideas, subtly tying into broader questions about the changing socio-political milieu and the evolving perceptions and implementations of socialism.

While "Bickels [Socialism]" is an architectural film, the inclusion of human elements—the occasional visit of a resident or a worker—emphasizes the context of these structures as lived spaces and not just physical buildings. It is through this connection between the architectural form and its social function that Heinz Emigholz challenges the viewer to reflect on the profound intricacy of architecture as a vessel for society, culture, and ideals.

"Bickels [Socialism]" is a mesmerizing voyage that promotes silent contemplation on the convergence of architecture, policy, and thought. It leaves a lasting impression on its spectators through a visual journey that is as remarkable as it is thought-provoking, and will unquestionably satisfy those interested in architecture, political philosophy, and artistic filmmaking.