My Architect DVD Review:

This Oscar nominated documentary follows the journey of Nathaniel Kahn as he sets out to understand his late father, renowned architect Louis I. Kahn. Hailed as perhaps America’s foremost architect, Louis Kahn died in 1974 when Nathaniel was only 11.

As an illegitimate son, Nathaniel never had much of an opportunity to be with his father. In fact while Louis Kahn was a perfectionist in his work, his personal life was messy. He fathered two other families (Including Nathaniel’s) outside of his marriage. This is one of the film’s most fascinating subjects, as old lovers and friends recall his reliance on work for satisfaction and his view of relationships as an inconstant source of happiness.

There are some incredibly poignant moments along the way. Many of the friends and colleagues interviewed had never met or were even aware of Nathaniel. However despite Kahn’s neglect of his family life, most seem to find it difficult to feel bitter about him. Thirty years on and they still miss him.

Yet Louis Kahn is not simply lavished with praise. In one scene, the children of Kahn’s three families meet in one of the houses he designed. While an awkward situation, it’s refreshing to see how honest they are concerning their own relationship and their father’s failings.

There is also an almost comical interview with exasperated planner Edmund Bacon. At the time, he was regarded as Kahn’s nemesis and his opinions have not softened over the years. He brutally dismisses Kahn’s ideas.

Thankfully, you really don’t have to be fan of Kahn’s work to appreciate this film, or even have knowledge of architecture in general. You discover each of Kahn’s buildings with Nathaniel and he himself gives a frank appraisal of each design, sometimes failing to understand his father’s vision. He also helps bring the designs to life as he meets most of his interviewees at his father’s buildings, helping to evoke memories. One interview in Bangladesh particularly stands out when he discovers how important Kahn’s creation has been to one of the poorest nations.

While you definitely will be left with a greater understanding of Kahn’s work, it is Nathaniel’s discoveries as a son that leaves the greatest impression. Struggling to understand parents is a theme that everyone can relate to which is why this film is so accessible and enjoyable.

Extras

The Q&A section includes Nathaniel Kahn explaining how he himself had to become an architect for the film and his struggles fitting everything into the structure. Several intriguing deleted scenes are shown that unfortunately didn’t fit this structure. An exclusive UK interview also features and has plenty of interesting insights. The difficulties of documentary making are covered, plus Kahn’s appreciation of the opportunities to meet people during filming he probably never would have otherwise.

Natalie Hunt

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