John Portman, a Life of Building, explores the rich and complex life of a man who, through his innate curiosity and hard work, revolutionized architecture by endowing it with a new, human-centric perspective.

Directed by the acclaimed film-maker Ben Loeterman, the 57-minute documentary effortlessly weaves through the various layers of John Portman's extraordinary life, showcasing his journey from a humble and underprivileged childhood in Atlanta, Georgia, to becoming one of the most influential and respected architects and urban developers of the 20th century.

The film covers Portman's groundbreaking philosophy of 'Architect as Developer', an approach that enabled the architect to maintain control over his building designs, from inception to completion, and even after they were built. This maverick idea was not without its share of critics, as the documentary highlights. However, it also shows how Portman's innovative vision ultimately transformed architectural practice by blending profitability and aesthetics effectively.

Through archival footage, commentary from experts and admirers alike, and comprehensive interviews with Portman, the film provides a unique insight into his architectural genius. The narrative vividly brings to life his spectacular award-winning creations, including the Renaissance Center in Detroit, Embarcadero Center in San Francisco, and the breathtaking Marriott Marquis in Atlanta, demonstrating how each building reflects Portman's deep reverence for humanistic design.

As much as it is an exploration of Portman's architectural prowess, John Portman, a Life of Building, is also an intimate personal portrait of the man himself. It chronicles significant milestones and experiences that shaped his life - from his service as a naval officer during World War II and his studies at Harvard University's Graduate School of Design to his early forays into traditional architecture and subsequent divergence into developer-driven design.

The film devotes considerable time to exploring Portman's transformative influence on his hometown, Atlanta. With projects like the Peachtree Center and the Hyatt Regency, he played a pivotal role in redefining Atlanta's urban landscape, fostering a bond between architecture and the community it serves. These contributions not only elevated the city's global status but also spurred a paradigm shift towards people-centered cityscapes worldwide.

Intermingled with his architectural accomplishments, the movie also reveals various other facets of Portman's life. The audience is introduced to his passion for art, particularly painting and sculpting, demonstrating his appreciation for the interplay of light, space, and form, which deeply influenced his architectural style. His reputation as a shrewd businessman, ever mindful of market trends and opportunities, is also brought to light.

Despite the unmistakable stamp of greatness, the film doesn’t shy away from the criticisms and controversies that accompanied Portman's career. His approach of bridging the gap between the roles of the architect and developer was seen by many as a conflict of interest, compromising the ‘art’ of architecture for the sake of profit. On the flip side, his detractors also blamed his massive projects for contributing to urban decay and economic disparity.

However, John Portman, a Life of Building allows Portman to express his views and defend his architectural philosophy, presenting a balanced, realistic portrayal of the legend. He emerges as an unapologetic innovator, someone dedicated to his vision of creating architecture that serves humanity and remains relevant for generations.

Through this exploration of Portman's works and philosophies, the documentary beautifully highlights the impact of architecture on human behavior and emotions. It emphasizes how well-designed buildings and spaces can touch the human spirit, enhance quality of life, and humanize cities. The cinematic narrative also underscores the importance of creative visionaries like Portman, who set new standards and drive change in their chosen fields.

Combining a keen eye for detail, reverence for its subject, and an unwavering commitment to exploring complex themes, John Portman, a Life of Building, offers viewers a richly layered depiction of an architectural luminary. The film is a must-see for anyone interested in understanding how architectural feats are not just about buildings, but also, at their core, about serving human needs and aspirations.