How Much Does Your Building Weigh, Mr. Foster?
How Much Does Your Building Weigh Mr. Foster?
Film Poster
Described as “The Mozart of Modernism” in regards to architecture, English architect Norman Foster’s documentary is a definite must see. The project emerged from Antonio Sanz’s ideals, which were undeniably influenced by his multi-faceted career in the art world as a photographer, film director, script writer and curator of prestigious international exhibitions. Sanz’s close collaboration with Elena Ochoa - Foster's wife's - publishing company led to the proposal this project: publishing a book with moving images- a film exhibition on the work of one of the greatest contemporary architects alive today.
Written and narrated by Deyan Sudjic, director of the London Design Museum and one of the world's most celebrated architectural writers and critics, the film allows architecture to come to life. Sudjic outlines Foster’s graceful and harmonious compositions, which emphasize light and functionality ro make his work increasingly attractive. How Much Does Your Building Weigh, Mr. Foster?, which is both the title of the film and a question directed towards Mr. Foster by the late architecture Buckminster Fuller, speaks about Foster’s overall impact on the world of architecture. As Foster was devoted to improving the quality of life through design, the film’s title asserts his influence on the field.
Norman Foster
Hearst Tower, New York City
Norman Foster
City Hall, London
The film highlights Foster’s origins as well as how his desires and influences inspired the design of emblematic projects such as the Swiss Re Tower in London, the Reichstag in Berlin, the Hearst Building in New York City and other projects such as the new airport in Beijing and the largest bridge in the world in Millau, France. In addition, Foster’s most innovative project, Masdar City in Abu Dhabi, is a unique experiment in sustainability where Foster seeks to respond to the complex and unsustainable features of cities, an idea that was conceived in an attempt to change the concept of urbanism. The cinematic style in which the buildings are photographed allows for recognition of the spectacular nature of their size and scale. With both aesthetic and documentary value, this film applies not only to specialists and design enthusiasts but also to anyone with an admiration of art.
Norman Foster
City Masdar, Abu Dhabi
