Getting Frank Gehry

"Getting Frank Gehry" is a gripping, intriguing documentary from 2015 that provides a captivating insight into the work of world-renowned architect Frank Gehry. Starring Kris McQuade and a band of highly skilled professionals, this groundbreaking film highlights Gehry’s journey in the field of architecture, featuring the backstory and controversial development of his first Australian project: the Dr Chau Chak Wing Building at the University of Technology, Sydney.

Born in 1929, in Toronto, Frank Gehry is considered one of the most significant architects of our time. He is renowned for his striking, quirky designs that challenge traditional architectural aesthetics. From the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao to the Walt Disney Concert Hall in Los Angeles, his buildings dramatically transform landscapes and skylines, earning him international acclaim, as well as criticism.

The documentary is intriguing not just due to Gehry’s outstanding architectural design, but also because of the policymakers, planners, builders, philanthropists and critics who navigate the complexities, disputes, excitement, aggravation, and the drama associated with building a Gehry. The film gives an unrivaled perspective into the world of this genius designer and the effect of his work on the communities, and institutions, he influences.

Kris McQuade, an esteemed Australian actor, serves as a guide in this exploration of Gehry’s architectural adventure down under. Her engaging performance and narrative skilfully thread the tale of clashing interests, pushing creative boundaries, and the delicate balance of art and commerce.

Throughout the film, you journey through a potent time-lapse of spectacular footage, photographs, and architectural drawings that stand as testament to the reality of Gehry's conceptualizations. It's a riveting artistic evolution highlighting the meticulous planning, painstaking construction, and the final transition from a sketch to a beautiful, tactile entity.

"Getting Frank Gehry" is not just about the architecture – it's also about the man himself. Beyond his creations, the film delves deep into Gehry's personal experiences, his remarkable resilience, his distinct philosophy and what drives him to produce such distinctive, powerful designs. It humanizes Gehry, shedding light on the character behind the internationally recognized architectural brands.

The portrayal of the key players involved in this high-stakes project brings the story to life. “Getting Frank Gehry” showcases the challenges and triumphs - the politics of persuading stakeholders, the controversies among critics, the technical challenges faced by the builders, and the final critical reception, bound with a rich tapestry of interviews, archival material and well-captured live footage.

The documentary is ultimately a study of the profound journey from conception to fruition of an architectural marvel, as viewed through the eyes of its eponymous protagonist, Frank Gehry. The film underscores the uniqueness of Gehry's process: a process that bypasses the conventional and traverses the extraordinary, often amidst significant opposition and skepticism.

There's also an exploration of the substantial cultural, social, and environmental implications of Gehry’s buildings. He is an architect that doesn’t merely design buildings but creates experiences, and this resonates throughout the film.

“Getting Frank Gehry” is an enriched, evocative tapestry about relentless dedication and ingenuity, the passion for creating, and the pursuit of artistic expression in the face of adversity. It's a film about people's spirit – the uncompromising dream of a daring man, and the reaction of a society encountering radical change in its built environment.

Whether you’re a passionate architectural enthusiast or not, this insightful and mesmerizing documentary serves as a testament to Gehry’s creative genius and offers a truly remarkable viewing experience. Expertly navigated by McQuade’s charisma, the film draws you into the heart of an extraordinary creative process and leaves you with a profound appreciation for the brilliant, artistic mind of Frank Gehry.

In summary, "Getting Frank Gehry" is more than just a story about a building or a famous architect; it is a masterful narrative about human aspiration, creativity, and the powerful impact of architecture on communities. It's an inspiring voyage into the charismatic world of cutting-edge design and a tribute to the sheer wonder of remarkable architecture.

In essence, “Getting Frank Gehry” is a powerful lesson in following one’s vision, regardless of the challenges, it is a film that serves as a testament to the true essence of art – raw, passionate, and uncompromising.