Urban development is a fascinating subject that touches on architecture, sociology, economics, and environmental issues. This curated list of documentaries offers a deep dive into how cities evolve, the challenges they face, and the innovative solutions being implemented worldwide. Whether you're an urban planner, a city enthusiast, or just curious about the world around you, these films provide a comprehensive look at the heartbeat of urban life.
Urbanized (2011)
Description: Directed by Gary Hustwit, this film examines the design of cities and the role of urban planning in shaping our future. It features interviews with architects, planners, and politicians from around the world.
Fact: Urbanized is part of Hustwit's design trilogy, following "Helvetica" and "Objectified."
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Citizen Jane: Battle for the City (2016)
Description: Focused on urban activist Jane Jacobs, this film illustrates her fight against urban renewal policies in New York City, highlighting the importance of community in city planning.
Fact: The film uses archival footage and interviews to bring Jacobs' story to life.
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Megacities (1998)
Description: This film by Michael Glawogger captures life in some of the world's largest cities, showing the stark contrasts between wealth and poverty, and the impact of rapid urbanization.
Fact: The documentary was filmed in cities like Mumbai, Mexico City, and Moscow, providing a global perspective.
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The Human Scale (2012)
Description: This documentary explores how cities can be designed to better fit human needs, focusing on the work of urbanist Jan Gehl. It delves into the concept of creating cities at a human scale, where people, not cars, are the priority.
Fact: The film was shot in cities like Copenhagen, New York, and Melbourne, showcasing diverse urban environments.
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The Pruitt-Igoe Myth (2011)
Description: This documentary looks at the rise and fall of the Pruitt-Igoe housing project in St. Louis, Missouri, exploring how urban planning decisions can lead to social and economic issues.
Fact: The film includes interviews with former residents, providing a personal perspective on the project's impact.
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The Endless City (2011)
Description: This documentary investigates the rapid urbanization in cities like Mumbai, Shanghai, and London, discussing the challenges of managing growth and the future of urban living.
Fact: It features insights from leading urban thinkers like Richard Sennett and Saskia Sassen.
30 Days Free The Power of Place: Urban Landscapes (1997)
Description: Part of a series by Winifred Gallagher, this episode explores how urban landscapes influence human behavior and community development.
Fact: The series was inspired by Gallagher's book "The Power of Place: How Our Surroundings Shape Our Thoughts, Emotions, and Actions."
30 Days Free The City Dark (2011)
Description: This documentary examines the consequences of light pollution in urban areas, exploring how it affects not just human health but also wildlife and the night sky.
Fact: It features interviews with astronomers, biologists, and city planners discussing the implications of light pollution.
30 Days Free The BQE: The Brooklyn-Queens Expressway (2018)
Description: Focused on one of New York City's most infamous highways, this documentary looks at its history, its impact on the community, and the ongoing debate about its future.
Fact: The film includes archival footage and interviews with residents and experts.
30 Days Free Urban Roots (2011)
Description: This documentary follows the journey of a group of high school students in Detroit as they transform an abandoned lot into a farm, exploring themes of urban agriculture and community revitalization.
Fact: The film won the Audience Award at the 2011 Urbanworld Film Festival.
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