103 Films for Creative Professionals
103 titles
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Coast ModernMovie · 2012 · 56mA group of architects shaped the West Coast, from Vancouver to Los Angeles, responding to its unique landscape and culture to create remarkable buildings. Contemporary architects continue to recognize and appreciate the impact of these earlier pioneers.IMDb 7.6TMDB 8.0 - 2
PressPausePlayMovie · 2011 · 88mThe digital revolution of the past decade has opened up incredible new avenues for creativity. But has this widespread access to culture led to better art, film, music, and literature, or has it instead overwhelmed true talent in a flood of mass culture? This question is explored in PressPausePlay, a documentary featuring interviews with some of the most influential creators of the digital age.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.1 - 3
Vincent & TheoMovie · 1990 · 138m · DramaThe film explores the deep relationship between Vincent van Gogh, the famous artist known for his passionate paintings, and his brother Theodore, who consistently supported him personally and professionally. Based on their letters, the movie examines the complexities of their bond as it follows Vincent's struggles with his mental health and his difficulties in becoming a recognized artist.
The film shows the hardships and successes Vincent encounters as a young artist. It highlights how Theodore’s constant faith in Vincent’s abilities provided emotional support and helped him develop as an artist. Focusing on their emotional connection, the movie offers a personal look at the lives of these two men and how they influenced each other.
By combining heartfelt storytelling with accurate historical details, this film presents a fresh view of Van Gogh's life, giving equal weight to both brothers' experiences. It sheds light on Vincent’s challenges and demonstrates the power of family support during difficult times.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.4 - 4
Dear Mr. WattersonMovie · 2013 · 89m · DocumentaryTwenty years after Calvin and Hobbes ended its daily newspaper run, filmmaker Joel Allen Schroeder investigates why the comic strip continues to have such a dedicated fanbase.IMDb 6.3TMDB 6.4 - 5
The Art of the StealMovie · 2010 · 101m · DocumentaryThis film is a suspenseful story set in the art world, following the history of a collection of Post-Impressionist paintings valued at billions. Following the death of their owner, Dr. Albert Barnes, the paintings become the focus of a battle for control.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.0 - 6
Exit Through the Gift ShopMovie · 2010 · 86m · DocumentaryBanksy is a world-famous graffiti artist whose art appears on walls worldwide, from New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina to the West Bank. He fiercely protects his anonymity to avoid legal trouble and has never been filmed. *Exit Through the Gift Shop* is the surprising true story of a quirky French shop owner who tried to find and befriend Banksy, only for the artist to redirect the camera back at him.IMDb 7.9TMDB 7.5 - 7
HelveticaMovie · 2007 · 80m · DocumentaryHelvetica is a documentary film exploring typography, graphic design, and how visual culture shapes our world. It examines the widespread use of the Helvetica typeface – celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2007 – as a lens through which to understand type's impact on daily life. The film journeys through urban environments, showcasing the typography found in major cities, and features conversations with leading designers about their work, creative approaches, and the aesthetic decisions behind their use of type.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.2 - 8
BasquiatMovie · 1996 · 107m · Drama, HistoryThis documentary series offers a realistic look inside New York City's law enforcement and criminal justice system. It follows police detectives as they carefully investigate serious crimes, working to gather evidence and question suspects. They then present their findings to prosecutors, who must build strong cases based on solid proof to achieve convictions. The series details the collaborative work between police and prosecutors as they try to keep the city safe.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.6 - 9
Inge Druckrey: Teaching to SeeMovie · 2012 · 38mThis film explores the art of patient and dedicated teaching, focusing on developing visual design skills through observation and visualization, and emphasizing the fundamental importance of drawing. It's a designer's personal journey addressing challenges faced by all designers, presented with warmth and encouragement, using examples from Inge Druckrey’s work and the work of her students. The film offers accessible insights into complex ideas – for instance, describing letterforms as "memories of motion." Throughout, Inge consistently uses the word "beautiful" when discussing these core principles.IMDb 8.4 - 10
Bomb It 2Movie · 2013 · 67mJon Reiss and his team journey to Asia, Australia, the Middle East, and other locations, documenting local graffiti and the artists who create it. This is a follow-up to the acclaimed street art documentary "Bomb It."IMDb 7.1TMDB 5.2 - 11
PabloMovie · 2012 · 90mPablo Ferro is the subject of this film, which blends documentary and animation to chronicle his life. The story follows Ferro from his time in Havana before the Cuban Revolution to his present life working in the garage behind his son's house. It’s the story of a man who remained largely unknown despite a life filled with experience.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.9 - 12
SéraphineMovie · 2008 · 125m · History, DramaThis is the story of Séraphine Louis (1864-1942), a French woman who began as a simple servant and unexpectedly developed into a talented self-taught painter. She gained recognition during the interwar years thanks to the influential critic and collector William Uhde, and was associated with other naive artists like Henri Rouseau. However, with the arrival of the Great Depression and World War II, she tragically suffered a mental breakdown and faded into obscurity.IMDb 7.4TMDB 6.7 - 13
Art & CopyMovie · 2009 · 89m · DocumentaryThis film explores the journeys of history's most impactful advertising innovators, revealing the stories behind their groundbreaking campaigns.IMDb 6.8TMDB 7.0 - 14
All the World in a Design SchoolMovie · 2015 · 59mThis documentary follows a diverse group of students at a leading industrial design school in northern Sweden, just below the Arctic Circle. The film captures their daily lives and collaborative design work as the school celebrates its 25th anniversary. At the same time, Sweden, traditionally welcoming to international students, implements high tuition fees for those outside Europe – a move that directly impacts the very students who have helped shape the school's unique identity.IMDb 8.3TMDB 8.0 - 15
Infinite Space: The Architecture of John LautnerMovie · 2008 · 90mInfinite Space, a documentary, follows the life-long pursuit of architect John Lautner to design buildings without apparent limits. The film explores his remarkable talent and complex personal history, showcasing some of the most evocative architecture of the 20th century.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.1 - 16
Tim's VermeerMovie · 2013 · 80m · DocumentaryTexas inventor Tim Jenison investigates a long-standing question in art history: How did Johannes Vermeer achieve such realistic painting, long before photography existed? Over ten years, Jenison's quest leads him to Holland, to the Yorkshire coast to consult artist David Hockney, and even to Buckingham Palace. The remarkable research he undertakes reveals discoveries as surprising as the mystery itself.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.3 - 17
Waste LandMovie · 2010 · 90m · DocumentaryThis inspiring documentary follows acclaimed artist Vik Muniz as he journeys from the world's largest landfill in Rio de Janeiro to international fame. Muniz collaborates with the "catadores," the landfill's waste pickers – resourceful individuals who offer a unique perspective on life and recycling. Through their stories, the film explores the transformative power of art and the resilience of the human spirit.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.6 - 18
Jack Smith and the Destruction of AtlantisMovie · 2007 · 94mThis documentary explores the life of Jack Smith, a performance artist, photographer, and filmmaker. It combines archival footage of his performances and films with interviews from artists, critics, friends, and rivals to build a comprehensive portrait of the artist. Famous for his controversial film *Flaming Creatures*, Smith was a groundbreaking and provocative figure who influenced artists like Andy Warhol and John Waters.IMDb 7.4TMDB 6.6 - 19
Cave of Forgotten DreamsMovie · 2010 · 90m · DocumentaryFilmmaker Werner Herzog receives rare permission to film within the Chauvet caves of southern France. His camera documents the world's oldest known cave paintings, offering a breathtaking look at early human artistry in their original environment.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.1 - 20
How to Draw a BunnyMovie · 2002 · 90mThrough interviews with Christo, Chuck Close, Roy Lichtenstein, Judith Malin, James Rosenquist, and others, this film explores the life and art of Ray Johnson, a contemporary of Andy Warhol.IMDb 7.4TMDB 5.4 - 21
The World of Buckminster FullerMovie · 1974 · 85mBuckminster Fuller was an architect, engineer, and visionary – a brilliant thinker who tackled the world’s problems with innovative design. For over fifty years, he pioneered solutions focused on "doing more with less" to improve lives. He traveled the globe sharing his ideas with countless people. This film presents Fuller's thoughts and insights, captured in his own words, and reveals why his ideas are as relevant today as they ever were.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.0 - 22
Citizen Architect: Samuel Mockbee and the Spirit of the Rural StudioMovie · 2010 · 57mThis documentary follows an architecture school in rural Alabama, where students concentrate on designing and constructing projects that directly benefit the local community.IMDb 7.7 - 23
Vidal Sassoon: The MovieMovie · 2010 · 90mThis documentary explores the life of Vidal Sassoon, the influential stylist. It follows him from a difficult childhood and time in the Israeli military to his groundbreaking work in hairstyling and the creation of a globally recognized brand.IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.8 - 24
A Bucket of BloodMovie · 1959 · 66m · Comedy, HorrorWalter Paisley, an awkward busboy at a beatnik café, feels like an outsider among his effortlessly cool coworkers. He secretly loves Carla, a captivating fellow employee, and decides to express his feelings by sculpting her in plaster. A series of unfortunate events, involving his clumsiness and the death of his landlady's cat, leads him to incorporate the cat’s remains into the sculpture. Surprisingly, Carla and her friends are charmed by the artwork, encouraging Walter to pursue his unique artistic vision with increasingly ambitious creations. The film is a lighthearted exploration of love, finding oneself, and the impact of artistic expression.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.6 - 25A Model for MatisseMovie · 2006 · 67mBarbara F. Freed's documentary examines the unique friendship between renowned artist Henri Matisse and Sister Jacques-Marie, a Dominican nun who profoundly influenced his work. The film features the 83-year-old nun recounting her experiences as Matisse's model and muse. She shares her perspective on her involvement in what Matisse considered his greatest achievement: the paintings and stained-glass windows of the Chapel of the Rosary in Vence, France.
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Why Beauty MattersMovie · 2009 · 59mPhilosopher Roger Scruton argues persuasively for the essential role of beauty in art and everyday life, examining objective standards of beauty that exist independently of personal opinion.IMDb 7.7TMDB 8.8 - 27
Finding Vivian MaierMovie · 2014 · 83m · DocumentaryVivian Maier's photographs were hidden away, lost among the many possessions she accumulated. Now, these images have revolutionized street photography and profoundly impacted the life of John Maloof, the man who shared them with the world. This film recounts the surprising story of how Maloof discovered Vivian Maier, piecing together her mysterious life through her films, photographs, collections, and the recollections of those who knew her. What began as a simple blog showcasing her work quickly gained widespread attention in the photography community. Photos once discarded are now featured in galleries, a forthcoming book, and this documentary.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.6 - 28
The Mystery of PicassoMovie · 1956 · 78m · DocumentaryThis documentary offers a rare look at Pablo Picasso's creative process. Using a camera rig and a transparent canvas, the film captures every moment as he paints, allowing viewers to witness art being made. It begins with simple sketches that appear almost spontaneously, then progresses to more complex paintings where Picasso expertly adds and removes elements, transforming the artwork until it’s complete. The film provides an intimate glimpse into the mind of a genius, revealing his talent and artistic vision.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.3 - 29
How to Make a Book with SteidlMovie · 2010 · 88mFor forty years, Gerhard Steidl has been both printer and publisher, personally inspecting every print from his Göttingen shop. His dedication to perfection, along with a deep love for books and traditional, handcrafted printing, has earned him international acclaim. Leading photographers want to work with Gerhard Steidl, seeking his expertise to create the ultimate book.IMDb 7.1TMDB 5.5 - 30
Beautiful LosersMovie · 2008 · 90mThis documentary explores the lives and careers of a group of artists and designers who embraced a do-it-yourself approach, unexpectedly leaving their mark on the art world.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.4 - 31
Just Like Being ThereMovie · 2012 · 98mFor artists like Daniel Danger and Jay Ryan, creating gig posters isn't just a job – it's a way of life. They're leading a new wave in the genre, fueled by initiatives like MONDO's celebration of film posters as art and Gallery 1988's themed exhibitions, which are bringing the art to a wider audience. This growth is stirring debate within the established community, a scene with deep roots going back to the 1960s; some welcome the fresh perspective, while others see it as a betrayal of tradition.IMDb 6.8TMDB 5.8 - 32
Design Is OneMovie · 2012 · 80mMassimo and Lella Vignelli are a husband-and-wife team who have created distinctive and influential designs as brand designers. This documentary offers an intimate look at their significant impact on how we see the world around us.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.1 - 33
Through a Lens Darkly: Black Photographers and the Emergence of a PeopleMovie · 2014 · 92mThis film examines how photography, from its early days in the 1840s, has influenced the identity, dreams, and rise of African Americans from slavery to today. The story unfolds visually over the past 160 years, showing how Black photography became a tool for social change, a unique perspective on American history, and a distinct artistic vision.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.2 - 34
The Cool SchoolMovie · 2008 · 86mA look at how Los Angeles embraced modern art, following the story of a small group of artists who created a thriving art scene where one didn't previously exist.IMDb 7.0TMDB 5.9 - 35
Eames: The Architect and the PainterMovie · 2011 · 85m · DocumentaryThis film explores the world of "The Eamery," a 24-hour creative studio, through interviews with the junior designers who worked there. Narrated by James Franco, it’s a detailed look at the husband-and-wife team who shaped Mid-Century Modern design. The movie uses a wealth of historical footage and photographs – created in huge quantities by Charles and Ray Eames and their team over forty years – to capture the intense creativity of the Eames Office.IMDb 7.1TMDB 7.1 - 36
Waking Sleeping BeautyMovie · 2009 · 86m · DocumentaryIn the mid-1980s, Walt Disney Animation Studios was struggling. A divide existed between new artists eager for change and veteran animators resistant to it. This led to several unsuccessful films and doubts about the future of animation. It seemed the studio had lost its ability to create beloved stories. *Waking Sleeping Beauty* is not a fairytale; it's the story of how Disney rediscovered its magic, producing a remarkable string of successful films – including *The Little Mermaid*, *Beauty and the Beast*, *Aladdin*, and *The Lion King* – over a decade.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.2 - 37
Ai Weiwei: Never SorryMovie · 2012 · 92m · DocumentaryThis film chronicles the challenges faced by Ai Weiwei, the Chinese artist renowned for his provocative art and outspoken political views, between 2008 and 2011. It follows his ascent to international recognition through online platforms, culminating in his widely reported arrest as a result of his repeated and bold challenges to the Chinese government.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.0 - 38
Art and CraftMovie · 2014 · 90m · DocumentaryFor decades, Mark Landis, a talented and highly productive forger, meticulously crafted flawless copies of works by famous artists. He gifted these to museums and galleries nationwide, gaining recognition for the pieces displayed. ART AND CRAFT explores the isolated world of this unique individual as he encounters an equally driven art registrar who becomes his rival.IMDb 7.1TMDB 7.1 - 39
Herb & DorothyMovie · 2009 · 89mHerb and Dorothy Vogel were a postal clerk and a librarian with modest incomes. Yet, through their shared passion for art, they amassed one of the most significant collections of contemporary art ever assembled. Their story challenges conventional ideas about art collecting and demonstrates a unique approach to the world of art.IMDb 7.5TMDB 6.9 - 40
Bomb ItMovie · 2007 · 93mThis documentary explores the history of graffiti through interviews and hidden-camera footage of artists worldwide. It traces the art form from its beginnings in prehistoric cave paintings to its rise in New York City during the 1970s and 80s, and follows its spread across the globe.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.9 - 41
Painters PaintingMovie · 1973 · 116mPainters Painting: The New York Art Scene 1940-1970 is a 1972 documentary by Emile de Antonio. It explores American art movements, from abstract expressionism to pop art, through interviews with artists in their studios. The film features Willem de Kooning, Jasper Johns, Andy Warhol, Robert Rauschenberg, Helen Frankenthaler, Frank Stella, Barnett Newman, Hans Hofmann, Jules Olitski, Philip Pavia, Larry Poons, Robert Motherwell, and Kenneth Noland.IMDb 7.4TMDB 6.5 - 42
Between the FoldsMovie · 2008 · 56mThis film follows a group of talented artists and unconventional scientists – many with backgrounds from MIT and NASA – who have dedicated themselves to the art of modern origami. Their efforts to reimagine the world through paper spark a compelling exploration of art, design, creativity, and the search for meaning.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.7 - 43
PollockMovie · 2000 · 132m · Drama, HistoryIn August 1949, Life Magazine asked the question, "Jackson Pollock: Is he the greatest living painter in the United States?" This film explores the life of an exceptional man, often described as "an artist dedicated to concealment, a celebrity nobody knew." Battling self-doubt and a conflict between his desire for expression and his need for isolation, Pollock entered a period of decline.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.7 - 44
The Universe of Keith HaringMovie · 2008 · 90mThis film explores the life of New York artist Keith Haring, examining his exceptional talent and his vibrant approach to life. Haring was deeply dedicated not only to his art but also to social activism and teaching children, viewing both as equally important commitments.IMDb 7.4TMDB 6.6 - 45
Sign PaintersMovie · 2014 · 90mIn the 1980s, every sign – from storefronts to billboards – was painted by hand. Now, computer-designed lettering has created a uniform look. But a new appreciation for traditional craftsmanship is emerging, and sign painting is experiencing a revival. *SIGN PAINTERS* explores the history of this unique art form through the stories of over twenty sign painters working in cities across America.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.8 - 46
ArtemisiaMovie · 1997 · 98m · Drama, HistoryArtemisia Gentileschi, born in 1593, was a significant figure in art history, known for her challenging life and rise to become one of the first famous female painters. The film follows her life, beginning with her early years under the guidance of her father, painter Orazio Gentileschi.
The story unfolds in 17th-century Italy, examining Artemisia's struggles and successes as a gifted artist in a world dominated by men. With her father's support – both in technical training and emotional encouragement – she developed her skills and established herself as a unique artist.
The film highlights Artemisia's strength and perseverance despite hardship. It depicts her journey from a young aspiring painter to a courageous artist who fearlessly explored challenging subjects like violence and sexual assault, topics often avoided at the time. This biography of Gentileschi offers a compelling look at the difficulties faced by a pioneering woman in art, celebrating her unwavering spirit.IMDb 6.7TMDB 5.9 - 47
Bauhaus: The Face of the Twentieth CenturyMovie · 1994 · 49m"Bauhaus - The Face of the 20th Century," written and narrated by Frank Whitford, is an art documentary exploring the visual innovations that emerged from the groundbreaking Bauhaus school. It details the development of these ideas, a product of the school's pioneering approach to education.IMDb 7.3TMDB 6.3 - 48
The Life and Times of Frida KahloMovie · 2005 · 90mTHE LIFE AND TIMES OF FRIDA KAHLO examines the 20th-century artist who achieved international fame as a leading figure in modern art and a passionate political activist. The film explores the historical and cultural forces that profoundly shaped Frida Kahlo's extraordinary life.IMDb 8.0TMDB 6.2 - 49
Cutie and the BoxerMovie · 2013 · 81m · DocumentaryThis honest New York story follows the turbulent 40-year marriage of Ushio Shinohara, a renowned boxing painter, and his wife, Noriko. Seeking independence from her husband's controlling presence, Noriko begins to discover who she is as an individual.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.9 - 50
Jean-Michel Basquiat: The Radiant ChildMovie · 2010 · 88m · DocumentaryThis documentary offers a detailed look at New York City painter Jean-Michel Basquiat. Through in-depth interviews with Basquiat conducted by his friend and filmmaker Tamra Davis, the film examines his experiences as a Black artist in a largely white art world. It also follows his ascent in the art world, including his close bond with Andy Warhol, and explores how the young painter navigated sudden fame, public attention, and critical evaluation.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.3 - 51LemonadeMovie · 2009 · 36mDuring the "Great Recession," over 130,000 advertising professionals lost their jobs. *Lemonade* explores what happens when these creative people are compelled to find new ways to be inventive in their personal lives.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.0
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RamsMovie · 2018 · 74mRAMS, a documentary by Gary Hustwit, profiles legendary designer Dieter Rams, whose work at Braun and Vitsoe, and influence on Apple, has shaped product design for over fifty years. At 86, Rams reflects on his career with regret. The film explores not only design but also broader themes of consumerism, materialism, and sustainability. Rams' philosophy extends beyond aesthetics; it’s a holistic approach to life. The film features an original score by Brian Eno.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.4 - 53
Anton Corbijn Inside OutMovie · 2012 · 85mThis film offers a personal look at Anton Corbijn, following him as he journeys globally working as a photographer, filmmaker, and video artist.IMDb 7.0TMDB 5.5 - 54
Design & ThinkingMovie · 2012 · 74mThis documentary explores what connects business leaders, designers, activists, and others navigating the uncertainties of the 21st century. Inspired by design thinking, the film doesn't celebrate aesthetics, but instead reveals the complexities, challenges, and often messy process of creative problem-solving for anyone working to shape the future.IMDb 6.0TMDB 6.5 - 55
Sketches of Frank GehryMovie · 2006 · 83mFrank Gehry is fundamentally an artist. Called "golden hands" as a child, he begins his work with sketches, transforming ideas into tangible sculptures. This fusion of art and architecture is at the heart of his creations. Director Sydney Pollack invites us into the world and work of arguably the most influential architect of our time.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.9 - 56
Gerhard Richter PaintingMovie · 2011 · 97mFor over fifty years, Gerhard Richter has explored countless artistic approaches, tackling topics from historical events and media images to chance in art. This film offers a rare look inside the studio of the 79-year-old artist, documenting his creative process. It combines this with archival footage and conversations with those who have shaped his work.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.9 - 57
In the Realms of the UnrealMovie · 2004 · 81m · Documentary"In the Realms of the Unreal" is a documentary about Henry Darger, a reclusive artist who lived in Chicago. After his death, neighbors discovered a massive 15,145-page manuscript alongside hundreds of his paintings. The manuscript details "The Story of the Vivian Girls," set in a fantastical world called the Realms of the Unreal, and chronicles the Glodeco-Angelinnian War Storm, framed by the Child Slave Rebellion.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.1 - 58
Drew: The Man Behind the PosterMovie · 2013 · 97m · DocumentaryThis documentary explores the life and work of Drew Struzan, the renowned artist behind countless iconic movie posters.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.0 - 59Lettera22Movie · 2009 · 46mThis documentary film explores the life and work of Adriano Olivetti.
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Future by DesignMovie · 2006 · 86m · DocumentaryFuture by Design explores the life and extensive vision of Jacque Fresco, often compared to a modern-day Leonardo da Vinci. Like Einstein and Buckminster Fuller, Fresco is a self-taught futurist who identifies as a "generalist," deeply knowledgeable across many interconnected disciplines.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.3 - 61
FridaMovie · 2002 · 123m · Drama, RomanceThis is a biography of Frida Kahlo, the artist who transformed the suffering from a severe physical injury and a turbulent marriage into powerful works of art.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.4 - 62
Print the LegendMovie · 2014 · 100m · Documentary3D printing is transforming industries, enabling everything from the creation of weapons and human organs to the potential disruption of global manufacturing through widespread home production. The 3D printing revolution is underway. But who will control its future?IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.6 - 63
Black White + Gray: A Portrait of Sam Wagstaff and Robert MapplethorpeMovie · 2007 · 77mCrump directed *Black White + Gray: A Portrait of Sam Wagstaff + Robert Mapplethorpe*, which premiered at the 2007 Tribeca Film Festival in North America and Art Basel in Europe. The film examines the impact of curator Sam Wagstaff, photographer Robert Mapplethorpe, and musician/poet Patti Smith on the New York City art world of the 1970s.IMDb 7.0TMDB 4.8 - 64
Marina Abramović: The Artist Is PresentMovie · 2012 · 106m · DocumentaryMarina Abramović, a renowned performance artist, is preparing for a significant exhibition of her work at the Museum of Modern Art in New York City.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.3 - 65
Indie Game: The MovieMovie · 2012 · 103m · DocumentaryThis film chronicles the intense experiences of video game developers as they bring their creations to life and release them to players worldwide. It’s a story about the process of making video games, fundamentally exploring the act of creative expression and the vulnerability inherent in sharing one's work with the public.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.5 - 66
Gregory Crewdson: Brief EncountersMovie · 2012 · 78mOver ten years, Brief Encounters documents internationally acclaimed photographer Gregory Crewdson's process of crafting his distinctive, surreal, and meticulously staged images of suburban life. He stages elaborate scenes – including controlled fires and large-scale sets with extensive crews – often disrupting public spaces. This work reflects Crewdson's exploration of a haunting vision of American life, shaped by his personal anxieties, dreams, and desires. Brief Encounters offers an intimate look at one of today's most celebrated visual artists.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.0 - 67
Visual AcousticsMovie · 2008 · 83mVisual Acoustics chronicles the life and work of Julius Shulman, widely considered the greatest architectural photographer. His photographs introduced modern architecture to a broad American audience. Shulman, who died this year, documented the work of prominent architects from the 1930s onward, including Frank Lloyd Wright, Richard Neutra, John Lautner, and Frank Gehry. His images captured the distinctive beauty of Southern California's modernist movement, making its iconic buildings familiar to everyone. This film is a tribute to the development of modern architecture and a lively portrait of Shulman himself, a captivating and insightful man who captured it all with his unforgettable photographs.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.4 - 68
Afternoon of a Faun: Tanaquil Le ClercqMovie · 2014 · 91mTanaquil Le Clercq was considered by many to be the most captivating ballerina of her time. Her unique physique captivated audiences and choreographers, particularly George Balanchine, who saw in her a new ideal. As a muse to both Balanchine and Jerome Robbins, she achieved immense fame and adoration as the leading dancer of her era. However, her life was abruptly altered at 27 when she contracted polio, leaving her paralyzed and unable to dance. Her story has resonated throughout the ballet world ever since.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.4 - 69
The PaintingMovie · 2011 · 80m · Fantasy, AnimationThree figures inhabiting an incomplete painting journey into the real world. Their goal: to find the artist and persuade him to complete his artwork.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.0 - 70
Guest of Cindy ShermanMovie · 2008 · 88mVideographer Paul H-O grapples with his own sense of self as he develops a relationship with the enigmatic Cindy Sherman. Through intimate access, the documentary brings viewers into Sherman's world, offering a commentary on the booming New York art scene and the obsession with fame.IMDb 6.4TMDB 6.2 - 71Chuck CloseMovie · 2007 · 116mChuck Close, a remarkable look at one of the most important contemporary portrait painters, was one of two final gifts from filmmaker Marion Cajori, who passed away before her time. The other is a film about Louise Bourgeois. Edited by Ken Kobland, Chuck Close follows the life and work of an artist who revolutionized portraiture. Close photographs his subjects, enlarges the images to enormous sizes, breaks them down into a grid, and then meticulously reconstructs each face using a complex system of colors and patterns.IMDb 8.7TMDB 5.7
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BarbicaniaMovie · 2014 · 90mThis video diary documents a month spent fully immersed in the world of the Barbican Centre, exploring everything from its upper levels to its underground spaces. It offers a personal and vibrant look at this iconic brutalist building.TMDB 7.0 - 73
Hotel Transylvania: TransformaniaMovie · 2022 · 92m · Animation, Comedy, FamilyVan Helsing's experimental "Monsterfication Ray" malfunctions, turning Dracula and his monstrous companions into humans, while Johnny transforms into a monster. Now trapped in unfamiliar bodies, Dracula and Johnny must join forces on a global quest to find a cure before the changes become permanent and their differences tear them apart.IMDb 6.0TMDB 7.0 - 74
The Visual Language of Herbert MatterMovie · 2010 · 78mThis documentary film explores the life and work of Herbert Matter, a graphic designer, photographer, and visual artist.IMDb 7.5 - 75
The Cats of MirikitaniMovie · 2006 · 74mThis documentary follows Jimmy Mirikitani, a spirited street painter known for his red beret, who lives and works near the World Trade Center. His life is profoundly impacted by the 9/11 attacks that devastate his neighborhood. A film editor named Linda Hattendorf convinces the elderly Jimmy to live with her while she helps him find a permanent home. Linda explores Jimmy's distinctive background – born in California and raised in Japan – which shaped his resilient character and artistic focus on cats and Japanese internment camps. The film documents Jimmy's extraordinary life story.IMDb 8.2TMDB 7.4 - 76
Why Man CreatesMovie · 1968 · 29mThis 1968 animated documentary offers a critique of the industrial system. Preserved by the Academy Film Archive.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.6 - 77
Linotype: The FilmMovie · 2012 · 75mThis documentary explores the Linotype machine, once hailed as the "Eighth Wonder of the World" by Thomas Edison, and its profound impact on printing and society. The film reveals the unexpectedly personal stories of those who worked with the Linotype and how this invention changed the world.IMDb 7.5TMDB 6.5 - 78
TypefaceMovie · 2010 · 63mThe Hamilton Wood Type Museum in Two Rivers, Wisconsin, is a center for preserving culture, revitalizing rural communities, and showcasing the history of American graphic design. At Hamilton, contemporary artists collaborate with experienced craftspeople, exploring the intersection of modern design and time-honored methods.IMDb 6.6TMDB 7.0 - 79
Design DisruptorsMovie · 2016 · 63mThis documentary features design leaders from over 15 of the world's most valuable companies – collectively worth over $1 trillion. Through the eyes of these designers, the film explores the essence of design and the design-led changes reshaping industries globally. It offers an unprecedented look at the perspectives, methods, and approaches of leaders at major brands, revealing how they are revolutionizing billion-dollar sectors with design.IMDb 6.6TMDB 5.5 - 80
ObjectifiedMovie · 2009 · 75m · DocumentaryThis film explores the intricate connection between us and the things we make – examining the world of design and the individuals who shape it.IMDb 7.0TMDB 7.1 - 81
Style WarsMovie · 1984 · 70m · Music, Documentary, TV MovieTony Silver and Henry Chalfant's PBS documentary explores the rise and fall of subway graffiti in New York City during the late 1970s and early 1980s. The film reveals the energy and artistry of this underground movement, a significant part of the city's culture. It examines the artists' reasons and methods, and how law enforcement and changing social attitudes eventually led to its disappearance. Through interviews, historical footage, and striking images, the documentary offers a distinctive look at a compelling period in New York City's past.IMDb 8.0TMDB 7.4 - 82
The Velveteen RabbitMovie · 1985 · 30mFor Christmas, a young boy gets a Velveteen Rabbit. The Rabbit feels overlooked by the other, fancier toys, especially those who believe they are real because of their mechanics. Talking with the Skin Horse, the Rabbit discovers that a toy becomes real through the genuine love of its owner. The Skin Horse tells the Rabbit that once a toy is truly Real, it can never be Unreal again, and that this lasting reality endures forever.IMDb 7.4TMDB 5.8 - 83
The Line King: The Al Hirschfeld StoryMovie · 1996 · 86mThis film chronicles the life of Al Hirschfeld, the renowned artist famous for his thousands of line drawings of celebrities, particularly those in entertainment, created over six decades and into his nineties. The film explores his engaging personal life, his political and cultural perspectives, and offers glimpses into his personality – including his self-deprecating humor and claim that his only exercise is navigating the stairs in his Manhattan home. It also captures the unique experience of him driving around Manhattan and features interviews and memories from friends and colleagues.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.0 - 84
Loving VincentMovie · 2017 · 95m · Animation, Drama, MysteryA young man travels to Arles, France, Van Gogh's final home, to deliver the artist's last letter. He becomes drawn into uncovering the circumstances surrounding Van Gogh's final days.IMDb 7.8TMDB 8.0 - 85
Predictions of FireMovie · 1996 · 90mThis documentary explores the Slovenian art collective NSK ("New Slovenian Art") and its different groups: Laibach, Irwin, and Red Pilot. It offers a raw look at their diverse artistic approaches.IMDb 8.5TMDB 6.5 - 86
How Much Does Your Building Weigh, Mr Foster?Movie · 2010 · 78mThis film follows the journey of Norman Foster, a leading architect, and his constant pursuit of bettering people's lives through his designs.IMDb 7.0TMDB 7.6 - 87
Garbage WarriorMovie · 2007 · 86mGarbage Warrior is a documentary film about Michael Reynolds, an unconventional American architect, and his efforts to promote radically sustainable housing. The film chronicles his struggle to overcome bureaucratic obstacles in pursuit of his vision for a better world. Above all, it's a personal look at Reynolds and his desire to transform how we live. Written by The Works International.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.7 - 88
Louise Bourgeois: The Spider, The Mistress And The TangerineMovie · 2008 · 99mThis film offers a glimpse into the life of Louise Bourgeois, a renowned modern artist and feminist icon. The nearly nonagenarian Bourgeois is captivating, shifting, and deeply emotional – an artist known for her uncompromising vision and lifelong exploration of childhood themes in her work. The documentary intimately follows her in her studio and among her installations, revealing her intentions and inspirations. For six decades, she has consistently shaped new artistic movements, always with her own distinctive and unsettling approach. In 1982, at 71, she achieved a landmark moment as the first woman to have a major retrospective at New York's Museum of Modern Art. Since then, she has produced some of her most compelling work, most notably her large-scale spider sculptures displayed globally.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.5 - 89
PinaMovie · 2011 · 106m · Documentary"Pina" is a 3D dance film featuring the renowned Tanztheater Wuppertal Pina Bausch company, created by the influential German choreographer who passed away in the summer of 2009.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.4 - 90
Rivers and TidesMovie · 2001 · 90m · DocumentaryA portrait of Andy Goldsworthy, an artist known for creating temporary sculptures using natural materials.IMDb 7.9TMDB 7.3 - 91
CrumbMovie · 1994 · 120m · Documentary"R. Crumb: Inside the Mind of a Genius" is a documentary exploring the life and work of cartoonist Robert Crumb, famous for drawings like "Keep On Truckin'" and "Fritz the Cat," and his impact on underground comics.
The film features interviews with people who knew Crumb – his mother, brothers, wife, and former partners – offering insights into his personality, influences, and motivations. These interviews are combined with a large collection of his graphic art, illustrating his creative process.
The documentary reveals the complexities of Crumb's character, showcasing both his genius and darker aspects, and his significant influence on popular culture. It examines themes of creativity, identity, and relationships, all while maintaining a comedic tone reflective of Crumb’s art. Ultimately, the film is a look at an artist's journey and the world he created with his unique talent.IMDb 8.0TMDB 7.5 - 92
My Kid Could Paint ThatMovie · 2007 · 82m · DocumentaryThis film explores the art and unexpected fame of a four-year-old artist. Her paintings, often likened to those of Picasso, have achieved considerable financial success, earning hundreds of thousands of dollars.IMDb 7.1TMDB 7.0 - 93
Downtown '81Movie · 2001 · 72mThe film follows a day in the life of Jean-Michel Basquiat as he tries to raise money to get his apartment back after being evicted. He walks the streets of downtown with a painting he hopes will sell, and along the way, we see glimpses into the lives and performances of his friends.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.7 - 94
Bill Cunningham New YorkMovie · 2011 · 85m · DocumentaryBill Cunningham New York chronicles the city's evolving landscape through the eyes of a dedicated street style photographer, capturing moments with sensitivity and genuine affection.IMDb 7.9TMDB 7.5 - 95From Nothing, Something: A Documentary on the Creative ProcessMovie · 2012 · 79mEveryone has ideas, but where do they originate, and how do we keep them flowing? How do we distinguish truly innovative ideas from the rest? And what drives us to pursue those ideas? "From Nothing" explores the creative process with a diverse group of thinkers, revealing shared methods, habits, mindsets, and even neuroses that fuel breakthroughs. This intimate and often humorous film offers a thoughtful look inside the minds of some of our most accomplished and inspiring individuals.IMDb 8.0
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ReconversionMovie · 2012 · 68mIn *Reconversão*, Thom Andersen continues his exploration of architecture, film, and history, this time focusing on 17 buildings and projects by Eduardo Souto de Moura, the 2011 Pritzker Prize winner. Inspired by the work of Vertov and Muybridge, Andersen highlights what makes Souto de Moura's designs unique: how they incorporate the passage of time and exist within a history shaped by social change and class struggles. The film connects these structures to ruins and nature, suggesting a continuous cycle of creation and decay, framing and being framed by the natural world.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.0 - 97
UrbanizedMovie · 2011 · 85m · DocumentaryThis documentary explores the world of city design, examining the challenges and approaches to shaping urban spaces. Featuring insights from leading architects, urban planners, policymakers, builders, and thinkers, it offers a comprehensive look at the forces behind how cities are built.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.4 - 98
Fifi Howls from HappinessMovie · 2013 · 96mBahman Mohassess was a renowned artist in Iran before the 1979 revolution. He was trained in Italy and created sculptures and paintings in his native country. However, his work, often featuring prominent phallic imagery on nude bronze figures, frequently caused offense and was censored. Following the revolution, Mohassess vanished completely, reportedly destroying his remaining artwork.IMDb 7.7TMDB 6.8 - 99
Beauty Is EmbarrassingMovie · 2012 · 88mBorn in the Tennessee mountains, Wayne White began his career as a cartoonist in New York City. He quickly gained recognition as a key creator of the Pee-wee's Playhouse TV show, followed by designing many memorable images in popular culture. More recently, he's become known for his word paintings: vintage landscapes with clever and often sarcastic text. The film follows the ups and downs of an artist trying to balance his career and personal life. This is difficult for someone who often satirizes the very things he achieves in his art: vanity, ego, and fame.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.3 - 100
Goff in the DesertMovie · 2003 · 110mThis documentary by filmmaker Heinz Emigholz features filmed photographs of Bruce Goff (1904-1982), an American architect who learned the trade as an apprentice but never received formal training. His distinctive designs, primarily churches and homes, are unlike much 20th-century architecture. The Episcopal Church in Tulsa, built in the 1920s, is a prominent Art Deco landmark, while the Hopewell Baptist Church in Edmond is a unique, futuristic concrete structure that stands out in its surroundings. Bruce Goff remains an underappreciated figure in American architectural history. Emigholz's photo-based approach highlights details of Goff's buildings that are often overlooked, revealing their fascinating qualities.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.0