Sketches of Frank Gehry

This is a love story from one artist to another. Sydney Pollack, who knew little about architecture was invited by his friend, the renowned architect Frank Gehry, to make a documentary about Gehry's life and working methods. Pollack, one of the American cinema's grandest forces, actor, producer and, most famously, director of such enduring classics as They Shoot Horses Don't They?, Tootsie, Out of Africa and The Way We Were, was persuaded. The result of this collaboration between two friends is very special: Gehry is naturally at ease in front of Pollack's camera, as are the artists, architects and clients featured in the film including Dennis Hopper, Philip Johnson, Michael Eisner, Michael Ovitz, Eddie Ruscha, Julian Schnabel and Bob Geldof. Their rapport stems from deep mutual respect and the depth of insight culled from their experience as artists.

The film presents a very warm and observant working portrait of Gehry as he sits with trusted assistants and colleagues, painstakingly assembling models with scissors and cardboard until he achieves perfection. Pollack does a superb job capturing those moments when spontaneous ideas collide with practical concerns. This is an affectionate and sensitive film about a man who has dared to dream about buildings that transcend the rectilinear approach that defines so much of architecture, with designs such as the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao and the Walt Disney Concert Hall. Above all, Gehry, modest, energetic and inquisitive, reveals himself to be a consummately charming subject.

www.sketchesoffrankgehry.com