The International:The Architecture of The International

The International: The Architecture of The International is an illuminating behind-the-scenes examination of the acclaimed 2009 crime thriller, The International. Although it's not a standalone feature film, it delves into one of the most fascinating aspects of the production of the main movie - its architectural design. It’s a form of documentary that focuses on the visual and aesthetic beauty of the film in an unorthodox yet captivating way.

The International is a gripping story of an Interpol agent who teams up with a Manhattan assistant District Attorney as they embark on an investigation of high-level corruption within a powerful banking institution. While the thrilling narrative and high-stakes political intrigue generate a pulse-pounding cinematic experience, what sets The International apart from many contemporary thrillers is its visually stunning set design. The International: The Architecture of The International offers viewers a deep dive into this aspect, exploring how the architectural elements of the film contributed to its lasting impact.

The meticulously chosen locations and atmospheres play significant roles in the movie, almost becoming characters in their own right. From Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar to the distinctive Guggenheim museum in New York, the architectural designs lend a sense of realism and gravitas to the high-octane action sequences that unfold within those settings. They provide an extension to the narrative, vividly encapsulating the themes of power, control, and influence that are central to the film's plot.

The exploration of architecture in The International: The Architecture of The International is aimed at appreciating the art of making films not just from the realm of performances and storytelling but also in terms of how they visually hold the viewer’s attention. This production celebrates the importance of creators who work in the shadows, such as Location Managers, Production Designers, and Set Decorators, whose work often goes unnoticed but plays a vital role in creating the look and feel of a film.

Among the highlights of this feature are interviews with the film's conceptual artists, set designers and builders, and location scouts. They provide first-hand insights into the intricate process of choosing and creating the unique architectural elements. This artistic collaboration is exemplified through the discussion of how the iconic Guggenheim Museum shootout scene was imagined, designed, and finally filmed.

The International: The Architecture of The International is a visually rich exploration of the architectural design process in film making. It unravels how cinematic spaces are crafted to serve the narrative and enhance the movie's viewing experience. It allows viewers to look at the film through a different lens, providing a more complex and nuanced understanding of the elaborate process that goes into making a film aesthetically pleasing and narratively engaging.

This feature walks the viewer through some of the most memorable sets, while the team involved shares their intricate process of recreating them for the big screen. It looks at architecture as a critical storytelling tool, used to create tension and drama beyond dialogue and characters.

Overall, those interested in the filmmaking process, particularly the seldom-explored aspects such as set design and location scouting, will find The International: The Architecture of The International a fascinating watch. It uncovers the craft of film architecture and reflects on the importance of location and design in cinematic storytelling. The International: The Architecture of The International ultimately invites audiences to appreciate cinema from an architectural perspective and realise how these elements contribute towards creating a uniquely captivating cinematic experience.