10 Drama Films About Architects You Must See

Description: This film adaptation of Ayn Rand's novel follows Howard Roark, an uncompromising architect who battles against societal norms to maintain his integrity and vision. It's a profound exploration of individualism versus collectivism in the world of architecture.

Fact: Ayn Rand wrote the screenplay herself, ensuring the film stayed true to her philosophical themes. The movie was controversial for its time, reflecting Rand's Objectivist philosophy.

Description: This Canadian film, based on H.G. Wells' novel, explores a future where architecture plays a pivotal role in shaping society. It's a speculative look at how architectural design can influence human behavior and societal structure.

Fact: The film was one of the first to use extensive computer-generated imagery to depict futuristic architecture.

Description: While not solely about architecture, this film features an architect, Kate Forster, who communicates with a doctor from two years in the past through a magical mailbox at a lake house she designed. It's a unique blend of romance, time travel, and architectural design.

Fact: The film was a remake of the South Korean movie "Il Mare." The lake house itself was designed by architect Michael McDonough.

Description: Darren Aronofsky's film intertwines three stories across time, one of which involves an architect in the 16th century Spain, whose designs are influenced by his quest for immortality.

Fact: The film's visual style was heavily influenced by the work of artist M.C. Escher, particularly in its depiction of architectural spaces.

Description: This film, based on Peter Cameron's novel, involves a young academic who travels to Uruguay to secure the rights to write a biography of a deceased architect, exploring themes of legacy and place.

Fact: The film was shot on location in Uruguay, showcasing the country's unique architectural landscape.

Description: While primarily a political thriller, the film features an architect's home as a central location, symbolizing transparency and hidden truths. The protagonist, a ghostwriter, uncovers secrets while working on the memoirs of a former British Prime Minister.

Fact: The film was directed by Roman Polanski, who himself has a keen interest in architecture, evident in his choice of settings.

Description: Leo Waters, an architect, faces a moral dilemma when a group of tenants from a housing project he designed in the 1960s confront him about the deteriorating conditions of their homes. This film delves into the ethical responsibilities of architects.

Fact: The film was inspired by the Pruitt-Igoe housing project in St. Louis, which became a symbol of architectural failure.

Description: Although not directly about architecture, this adaptation of Edith Wharton's novel features opulent settings and interiors, reflecting the architectural tastes of the Gilded Age, which play a significant role in the social dynamics of the story.

Fact: The film's production design meticulously recreated the lavish interiors of New York's high society at the turn of the 20th century.

Description: This miniseries, based on Ken Follett's novel, revolves around the construction of a cathedral in medieval England, showcasing the architectural ambition and the political intrigue of the time.

Fact: The series was filmed in Hungary, with many scenes shot at the reconstructed medieval village of Hollókő.

Description: A documentary by Nathaniel Kahn about his father, Louis Kahn, one of the most influential architects of the 20th century. It's a personal journey exploring the legacy of an architectural genius through the eyes of his son.

Fact: The film won the Grand Jury Prize at the Sundance Film Festival and was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature.