Philip Johnson: Diary of an Eccentric Architect

Philip Johnson: Diary of an Eccentric Architect is a fascinating documentary film, exploring and celebrating one of the most influential architects of the 20th century. The documentary film, released in 1997, is directed by documentary filmmaker Barbara Wolf, and it offers an honest and captivating insight into the life, career, and influences of Philip Johnson.

The film opens with credited appearances by the man himself, Philip Johnson, and the famous painter, Frank Stella, both of whom appear as themselves, delivering compelling and thought-provoking dialogue throughout the film. Johnson's charisma and eclectic personality make him an engaging subject, as he enthusiastically describes his philosophical approaches to architecture, inspirations behind his most famous works, and the enduring relevance of his designs.

Narrated by Chief Architectural Historian of the National Trust for Historic Preservation, Vincent Scully, Philip Johnson: Diary of an Eccentric Architect immerses viewers in Johnson's extraordinary architectural journey. The film cleverly blends a mix of interviews, monologues, and vintage clips, which provide an in-depth look into Johnson's life and his exceptional contribution to modern architecture.

Philip Johnson, a Harvard graduate and the first recipient of the Pritzker Architecture Prize, is best known for his Glass House in New Canaan, Connecticut, and the Seagram Building in New York City, which he designed in collaboration with Mies van der Rohe. The documentary delves into Johnson's progression, starting as a modernist under the influence of Mies, and eventually branching into postmodernism, thus implementing ideas that fundamentally challenged the conventions of architectural design.

There’s also a special appearance by the modernist painter Frank Stella, who shares his intriguing connection with Johnson. Their discussions highlight how the realms of architecture and painting converge, intertwining seamlessly throughout Johnson's career. There are moments of reflection, contemplation, and humorous exchanges between the two, revealing their dynamic chemistry and mutual respect for each other's art form.

Dedicated to understanding 'Why Architecture?', the film interestingly features a series of Johnson's philosophical ruminations about the definition and purpose of architecture. He digs deep into the importance of beauty in architecture, emphasizing that architecture should not just serve function but bring joy.

The film adopts a visually compelling style, utilizing impressive cinematography to present Johnson's creations under a stunning light. The footage of Johnson's buildings in the documentary is breathtaking, as masterfully composed shots underline the architectural form, style, texture and the surrounding environment. From the pristine lines of the Glass House to the powerful framework of the Seagram Building, the documentary beautifully captures the essence of Johnson's work.

Delving into the many layers of Johnson's career, the documentary also discusses his more controversial aspects ; his temporary fascination with fascist aesthetics in the 1930s and his bold incursion into postmodernist forms in the 1980s, showing a fearless and evolving architect unafraid to test the boundaries. His design principles, fluctuations in style, and the architectural and social context at each stage of his career are articulated in an accessible manner, making the documentary not just an invaluable source for architects and architecture students but also for anyone interested in design, art and history.

Philip Johnson: Diary of an Eccentric Architect provides a portrait of an architect who dared to push the boundaries of artistic expression, reminding us of the impact of great design on our everyday lives. The filmmaker's intelligent and thoughtful portrayal of the man, the architect, and his legacy to architecture results in a film that is as inspiring, evocative, and bold as Philip Johnson himself.

This movie is an intimate and compelling journey that captures a significant slice of architectural history, providing a rare, personal, and profound insight into the mind of an architectural genius. It is not just a presentation of Johnson's work but an exploration of the man behind the structures, the eccentric, passionate, and innovative architect who changed the face of 20th-century architecture.