Paolo Soleri: Beyond Form is a documentary film about the life and work of the visionary architect and philosopher Paolo Soleri, known for his innovative ideas on sustainable urban design and his concept of the arcology. The film was released in 2013 and directed by Aimee Madsen. The movie begins by introducing the audience to Soleri's early life in Turin, Italy, where he initially studied as an architect before moving to the United States to work with Frank Lloyd Wright at Taliesin West. It was during this time that Soleri developed his interest in urban planning and began to formulate his theory of arcology, which combines architecture and ecology in a self-sustaining system.
The film explores Soleri's journey as an artist, architect, and philosopher, and highlights some of his major works, such as the Cosanti Foundation in Arizona, where he lived and worked, and Arcosanti, his famous experimental town designed to accommodate 5,000 people in a self-contained environment while also preserving natural resources.
The documentary features interviews with several people who knew Soleri, including the actor Peter Coyote, who narrates the film, and Tim Brinduse, the former president of the Cosanti Foundation, as well as footage of Soleri himself, discussing his ideas and philosophy. The film also includes rare archival footage and photographs of Soleri's early work, providing a comprehensive view into his creative process and evolution as an artist.
What sets Paolo Soleri: Beyond Form apart from other documentaries is its focus on Soleri's philosophical ideas and how they influenced his architectural designs. Throughout the film, Soleri talks about his belief in the need for a radical shift in our thinking about the built environment and our relationship with nature, emphasizing the importance of human collaboration and the integration of art and science in creating a sustainable future.
The film also shows how Soleri's ideas have influenced other architects and thinkers, including the renowned Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava, who lauds Soleri for his vision and creative approach to design.
One of the most poignant moments in the documentary is when Soleri reflects on his own mortality and the legacy he hopes to leave behind. He talks about how he wants to be remembered as a person who cared about the environment and had a deep respect for nature. This sentiment is echoed by several of the people interviewed in the film, who all attest to Soleri's passion and dedication to creating a better world through his art and philosophy.
Paolo Soleri: Beyond Form is a beautifully shot and thought-provoking documentary that offers a rare and intimate look into the life and work of one of the most visionary architects of our time. It is a must-watch for anyone interested in architecture, urban planning, or ecology, and an inspiring tribute to a man whose ideas continue to shape the way we think about the built environment and our place in it.
