Sketches of Frank Gehry

Sketches of Frank Gehry is a heartening and riveting documentary released in 2005 showcasing the life and artistic journey of architect Frank Gehry. The documentary stars the man himself - Frank Gehry, famous actor and filmmaker Sydney Pollack and Julian Schnabel who is a renowned visual artist.

Going beyond the typical boundaries of a documentary, Sketches of Frank Gehry intertwines the personal, artistic, and professional elements of Gehry's life, presenting a raw and relatable image of an individual who is widely regarded as one of the most influential architects of the 20th century. Polly Allen Mellen, fashion editor, expressed Gehry's work as "sculpture for life".

This documentary does not simply expound on Gehry's career; it delves into the details of his creative process, his inspirations, and his struggles, giving audiences a comprehensive understanding of how his extraordinary buildings came to be. Gehry, renowned for designing architectural marvels such the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao and Walt Disney Concert Hall in Los Angeles, invites the viewers into his creative world, that transforms plain sketches into architectural marvels.

Director Sydney Pollack's special relationship with the architect adds a unique and personal touch to the narrative. No stranger to the influences of artistic creation, Pollack undertook the Sketches of Frank Gehry as his first documentary project after making a substantial name for himself in Hollywood, noted for his Oscar-winning work. Therefore, Pollack had room to explore a new medium, to tell a unique story through his lens. Being old friends with Gehry, Pollack was able to connect on a higher level, capturing insightful and candid moments of Gehry's life.

Artist Julian Schnabel also played a significant role in presenting the avant-garde, nonconformist tendencies in Gehry's creations. Schnabel's avant-garde artistry itself mirrors Gehry's rebellious architectural style, offering viewers a deeper comprehension of Gehry's architectural vision. Apart from them, many other notable figures, including Michael Ovitz, Rolf Fehlbaum, and Milton Wexler, appear in the documentary to offer their perspectives and celebrate Gehry's creative genius.

Visually, Sketches of Frank Gehry is a feast for the eyes. It utilizes dynamic shots and angles to scan his artistic creations, capturing not only the scale and grandeur of his architecture but also its multifaceted, organic form that defies the traditional norms of structure and symmetry. On top of this, with cinematographer Ultan Guilfoyle's splendid use of photography mixed with hand-drawn plans, models, and computer imagery, the viewers get to understand how Gehry's vision evolves from idea to physical form.

The movie also takes the minimalistic route in its music composition, avoiding chaotic, dramatic scores and rather utilizing soft and unobtrusive tunes that truly complement Gehry's thoughtful, soft-spoken disposition.

What makes the documentary so fascinating is its approach to Gehry's storytelling. Rather than evading his doubts and insecurities, the documentary addresses them head-on, revealing the man behind the accolades and grand designs. It casts Gehry as a 'warrior artist,' who consistently pushes boundaries, dares to dream, and manifests his dreams in physical form, regardless of the criticism and challenges he faces.

Sketches of Frank Gehry is more than just a biographical exploration; it paints a portrait of human creativity, the courage to challenge convention, and the passion to forge ahead despite odds. Though centered around architecture, its theme resonates with anyone who possesses a creative spirit or nurtures an artistic ambition.

While the film paints an affectionate picture of Frank Gehry, it truthfully reflects his struggles, failures, and the constant battle against insecurities and criticisms. The contrast of Gehry’s reserved, modest demeanor with his eccentric, enormous structures is particularly intriguing in this story of ‘man vs. his creation.’

A must-watch for admirers of Gehry's work, filmmakers, architects, scholars, students, artists, or anyone interested in understanding the creative process as seen through the lens of one of the world's most iconic architects; Sketches of Frank Gehry is a celebration of boundless creativity and relentless spirit. With its compelling narrative, distinctive approach, and stirring exploration of art and architecture, Sketches of Frank Gehry is an unforgettable cinematic experience.