American Masters: Eero Saarinen: The Architect Who Saw the Future

Watch American Masters: Eero Saarinen: The Architect Who Saw the Future

  • G
  • 2016
  • 1 hr 8 min
  • 7.4  (103)

American Masters: Eero Saarinen: The Architect Who Saw the Future is a documentary film from 2016 that takes viewers on a journey through the life and work of one of the most innovative architects of the 20th century. Directed by Peter Rosen and narrated by his son, Eric Saarinen, the film explores the extraordinary creativity of Eero Saarinen, who revolutionized modern architecture with his groundbreaking designs and visionary ideas.

Born in Finland and raised in the United States, Eero Saarinen studied at Yale University and trained in the studio of his father, Eliel Saarinen, a respected architect and educator. Eero's early work, influenced by the Bauhaus and other modernist movements, already displayed a unique talent and a fascination with sculptural forms. In the 1940s and 1950s, he designed some of his most iconic buildings, such as the TWA Terminal at JFK airport, the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, and the CBS Building in New York. These structures were not only aesthetically stunning but also technologically advanced, using new materials and engineering techniques.

The film uses a range of archival footage, photographs, and interviews with architects, critics, and historians, to provide a detailed examination of Saarinen's designs and the context in which they were created. We see how he collaborated with experts in various fields, from engineers and contractors to artists and graphic designers, to achieve his ambitious visions. We also learn about the challenges and controversies that Saarinen faced, such as the criticism of his Gateway Arch as a symbol of white supremacy, or the budget constraints and technical difficulties of the TWA Terminal, which was later demolished.

The film also illuminates Saarinen's personal life and his relationships with his family, colleagues, and clients. His wife Aline, a journalist and art critic, was a mentor and collaborator who helped him refine his ideas and communicate his vision to the public. His clients, such as airline executive Howard Hughes or industrialist John Deere, trusted Saarinen to create not just functional structures but also works of art that reflected their corporate identity and aspirations.

Throughout the film, we hear from Saarinen's contemporaries and successors, who reflect on his legacy and influence on modern architecture. Architects such as Richard Meier, Robert A. M. Stern, and Rafael Viñoly recognize Saarinen's originality and daring, but also point out his flaws and limitations. Critics such as Paul Goldberger and Jayne Merkel offer insightful commentary on Saarinen's style and philosophy, as well as his place in the history of architecture.

Overall, American Masters: Eero Saarinen: The Architect Who Saw the Future is a compelling tribute to a visionary artist who pushed the boundaries of architecture and design. The film is beautifully crafted, with stunning visuals and a rich soundtrack that captures the atmosphere of Saarinen's era. It is a must-see for anyone interested in art, history, or technology, as well as for architecture enthusiasts who want to understand the creative process behind some of the most iconic buildings of the 20th century.

American Masters: Eero Saarinen: The Architect Who Saw the Future is a 2016 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 8 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.4.

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Where to Watch American Masters: Eero Saarinen: The Architect Who Saw the Future
American Masters: Eero Saarinen: The Architect Who Saw the Future is available to watch, stream, download and buy on demand at Apple TV, Google Play and YouTube VOD. Some platforms allow you to rent American Masters: Eero Saarinen: The Architect Who Saw the Future for a limited time or purchase the movie and download it to your device.
  • Release Date
    2016
  • MPAA Rating
    G
  • Runtime
    1 hr 8 min
  • IMDB Rating
    7.4  (103)