Expo - Magic of the White City DVD Review:

Leave it to Mark Bussler to create a film that makes us feel we’ve actually attended the incredible 1893 Chicago World’s Fair. In “EXPO – Magic of the White City,” the talented documentary filmmaker presents a “sensory explosion of sight and sound” as he explores the world of the late 19th century through a cinematic visit to Chicago’s famous Columbian Exposition. Caringly narrated by Gene Wilder, it’s a memorable visit indeed.

Imagine being one of the 300,000 people gathered at the Fair’s site on May 1, 1893, waiting for the opening of the World’s Columbian Exposition. You watch as President Grover Cleveland touches a gold telegraph key, and when he does, you shout with everyone else as the Fair comes to life. Bussler’s well-researched documentary captures that magic moment as well as a gazillion others.

“EXPO” helps us understand the immensity and significance of this historic extravaganza. It was the biggest World’s Fair ever held, and many of the world’s greatest achievements in art, architecture, science, technology and culture were unveiled there. Designed to celebrate the 400th anniversary of Christopher Columbus’ discovery of America, a gigantic city was constructed on a reclaimed swamp along the banks of Lake Michigan. The temporary buildings boasted white marble columns like those seen in Rome, hence the name “White City.” Among the Fair’s 28 million visitors were Henry Ford, Walt Disney, L. Frank Baum and Frank Lloyd Wright – all four of whom gained inspiration for future projects by attending this amazing exposition.

Through the fascinating facts and images presented in “EXPO – Magic of the White City,” I was surprised to learn so many new things, such as: weather has nothing to do with Chicago’s nickname as “the windy city;” the Ferris Wheel, making its debut, became the Fair’s most profitable attraction; the Manufactures and Liberal Arts Building, covering 44 acres, earned the distinction of being the largest building on earth; along with the gigantic Ferris Wheel, Cracker Jacks and Belly Dancing were introduced to Americans at the Fair; Chicago’s “cheerfully corrupt” mayor who staunchly supported the Fair was murdered shortly before the closing ceremonies; 17 people perished in front of horrified onlookers during a fire in the Fair’s Cold Storage building; Thomas Edison’s 80-foot Tower of Light was bedecked with jewels lit from inside by incandescent lights and choreographed with music; and thousands of electric lights decorated the Fair, representing the world’s first massive use of electricity.

“Viewers are literally immersed in the Fair,” says Bussler about his impressive documentary. “After the film they have no doubt they have been there. Audiences have walked the 700 acres of the Fair, partied on the Midway and eaten at the cafés. They’ve taken a ride on the Ferris Wheel and watched the Tower of Lights illuminate the Fair at night. Viewers know the layout, understand why the Fair existed and really want to go back. Basically, watching ‘EXPO – Magic of the White City’ offers everyone a really good time at the biggest party in the world.”

Although countries from around the world seemed happy to send exhibitions to an Expo devoted to “peace and progress,” it wasn’t long before some of these same nations were fighting each other in a great war. Nevertheless, this 1893 World’s Fair demonstrated U.S. optimism, even during a time rife with internal labor struggles, economic panic, racism and immigration problems.

Films can take us to times and places we would otherwise never have the opportunity to see and experience. “EXPO – Magic of the White City” is that kind of enlightening cinematic journey – and it’s also great fun.



Betty Jo Tucker