Watch Olmsted and America's Urban Parks

Olmsted and America's Urban Parks is a fascinating and educational documentary that celebrates the life and work of Frederick Law Olmsted, the legendary landscape architect who designed and created some of the most beautiful and iconic public spaces in America. Directed by Rebecca Messner and produced by George W. Perkins, the film features insightful interviews with experts, stunning footage of Olmsted's parks, and compelling archive material, all narrated by actor Kevin Kline.

Kerry Washington, an accomplished actress and civil rights activist, serves as the narrator of the film, expressing her admiration for Olmsted's vision and his tireless commitment to public service. From his early years as a journalist and abolitionist to his groundbreaking work as a park designer and conservationist, Olmsted emerges as a true American hero and a source of inspiration for generations to come.

The film takes us on a journey through Olmsted's life, highlighting his key achievements and his enduring impact on American society. We learn about his collaboration with Calvert Vaux on the design of Central Park, and how this landmark project transformed New York City and set a new standard for urban planning. We also explore his visionary plans for other parks, such as Prospect Park in Brooklyn, the Emerald Necklace in Boston, and the Biltmore Estate in North Carolina, all of which showcase his inventive use of natural elements and his concern for the public good.

Throughout the film, we hear from a variety of experts who offer insights into Olmsted's legacy and his relevance to contemporary urban challenges. These include historian Tyler Anbinder, landscape architect Laurie Olin, park ranger Shelton Johnson, and others, who share their views on Olmsted's creativity, his environmental stewardship, and his social consciousness. We also see striking aerial footage of Olmsted's parks, showing how they have evolved over time and how they continue to inspire and delight visitors today.

One of the most compelling aspects of the film is its focus on Olmsted's commitment to social justice and democratic values. We learn about his efforts to create parks that would be accessible to all people, regardless of their social status or ethnicity. We see how he used his expertise to improve public health, by designing parks that would provide fresh air and exercise for city dwellers. And we hear about his strong opposition to slavery and his belief in the power of nature to foster moral and intellectual growth.

The film also explores some of the challenges and controversies that Olmsted faced during his career, such as the financial pressures of running his own firm, the political conflicts that arose over the management of his parks, and the tensions that emerged between his artistic vision and the demands of his clients. Through it all, we see Olmsted as a principled and compassionate figure, who remained dedicated to his ideals and his vision of a more just and livable society.

Overall, Olmsted and America's Urban Parks is a beautifully crafted and thought-provoking documentary that offers a compelling portrait of one of America's greatest designers and humanitarians. It's a must-see for anyone interested in the history of American cities, the power of public space, and the enduring legacy of a true American hero.

Olmsted and America's Urban Parks is a 2011 documentary with a runtime of 57 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.7.