Customer Reviews

Architectures, Vol. 3

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I was able to view all four of the Architectures videos through Netflix. In my opinion Architectures 3 is the best of the series mainly due to the fact that it features 2 very different "Opera Houses", the Paris Opera House and the Sullivan Auditorium in Chicago. All of the Archtiectures videos provide interesting studies using models which clearly show the basic shapes and concepts of the many important buildings feataured in the series.

An excellent assortment of buildings is highlighted on this disk, and though the architecture is beautiful what truly makes these disks worthwhile is how the filmakers place the architecture in its society and elaborate on the building's role in it. Architecture's social, political, and aesthetic aspects are all touched upon in these vignettes, providing one with a unique view of the structures. These videos are better than some books, even, not only in their depth but also because through film one gets a unique view of the building and how it "lives" in its environment. Very informative, always beautifully shot, the "Architectures" series is a thought-provoking addition to any architectural library.

Leave it to the French (the Georges Pompidou Center, Ministry of Culture and Communication) to produce a series of videos that look at outstanding architecture in such a no-nonsense and beautiful manner!

This package (Volume 3) comprises 6 videos of iconic architecture. Each video (26 minutes) examines one building (or building complex) comprehensively with razor sharp focus (total length 160 minutes). The camera work embraces the aesthetic dimensions of architecture in ways that will exceed most expectations. Amazingly beautiful footage brings the sensorial experience up close and renders it at different times of day and in different seasons. The films include computer images that help to explain volumetric relationships.

You may realize that you have not fully appreciated how great architecture responds to programmatic needs with spatial logic and innovation. Your understanding of artistic possibilities for the built environment will certainly be expanded after viewing these short films.

List: the Jewish Museum, Berlin; the Garnier Opera House, Paris; the Convent of La Tourette (France); the Casa Mila, Barcelona; the Auditorium Building, Chicago; the Municipal Center, Saynatsalo (Finland).

I almost forgot: you can watch the videos with English, French or German narrations.