Sketches of Frank Gehry by Sydney Pollack (2005)

Two Icons, One DVD

I believe Syd Pollack is the premier moviemaker of my generation. I believe Frank Gehry is one of the Top 3 architects of this period. My interest in architecture/film led me to see this documentary more for the Pollack influence than for Gehry. But, I also have a very close friend who is friends with the Pollack's AND had a relationship with Gehry on previous boards in the 80s. AND, his art collection includes a "fish lamp" in his living room. Spellbound by the story of being offered over $100,000 for this, this, LAMP, I felt it was time to explore Gehry's work in more depth, a two for one.

This DVD is not for commercial sucess, it is a labor of love between two friends. Pollack has no reason to do this other than a love and appreciation for another artist. And Gehry has no reason to be so forthcoming and delve back into his life except to satisfy his friend. So what this becomes is just an open discussion between friends centered around architecture and career.

I must now admit that I am not a large fan of Gehry's architecture. It is too abstract for me. I prefer balance and clean lines and Gehry is about creation and a unique thought process. But I can appreciate the artistry even if it is not my favorite artwork.

This is an important DVD and should be watched as it is a reflection of American artistry from 1960 forward by two masters. But more so, two years later, due to the passing of Syd Pollack, a true legend of a film director. So I am touched and grateful for having watched this shortly before Pollack's death and having also sent this DVD to two other friends to watch and discuss and enjoy the work of Gehry. But also for one more reason: Gehry late in the DVD describes his fascination with the body of a fish and Pollack flashes pictures of the many buildings with unique structure which you can now clearly see are designed like a fish. But it all started with an unattractive lamp...... August 5, 2008

I know one when I see one

Outside Ayn Rands The Fountainhead, I knew nothing of architecture. After watching Sketches of Frank Gehry by Sydney Pollack, I still know nothing of architecture save identifying a Gehry building when I see one. I bought the movie because I'm a Sidney Pollack fan but frankly, I thought the movie was a bit narcissistic. This was not the typical Pollack depth and/or quality. May 29, 2008

Why only DVDs and books?

The DVD is fine. But I would like to know why Amazon out restrictions to send other products to Brasil. April 4, 2008

Great insight into the mind of a genious

If you have any interest in Frank Gehry, architecture, design, sculpture, art, or even beauty, you will like this film. I only wish this film was longer. November 21, 2007

His Chacacter as a Creative Individual

In this documentary I was able to view his character and the way he thinks and works. As an artist this film benefited me to know his creative process and who he is as a person. I found it interesting that his long time therapist was interviewed and talked about how the therapy could help him to do what he wanted to do when his ideas were too different to be accepted and implemented. I think anyone who is interested in architecture even a little bit would enjoy this film. I also think that if you watch this film without knowing who he is will most likely identify some of the buildings he designed because they are in many major cities in the world and also because his design is recognizable. November 9, 2007

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