The Watts Towers, rising to almost 100 feet, were once slated for demolition before becoming a symbol of the South Los Angeles community.
Synopsis
The Watts Towers, rising to almost 100 feet, were once slated for demolition before becoming a symbol of the South Los Angeles community.
Synopsis
Sabato Rodia, an Italian immigrant, dedicated his life to building the Watts Towers in South Los Angeles. These towering structures, made of reinforced cement and adorned with mosaics, rise nearly one hundred feet. Completed in 1954, they faced demolition by the City Building Department but were ultimately preserved. The documentary features Rodia's own recorded interviews from the 1960s, along with insights from family, neighbors, and artists like John Outterbridge. Directed by Edward Landler and Brad Byer, the film includes a score inspired by the music of Giuseppe Verdi.
Deep Dive
Why Watch
- Meet Sabato Rodia, creator of the Watts Towers.
- See Buckminster Fuller's last interview before his death.
- Find out how Rodia overcame alcoholism to build his towers.
Did You Know
- The film includes the last recorded interview with Buckminster Fuller from 1983.
- I Build the Tower was completed in 2006 after years of production.
- The documentary features a hip-hop song that uses Rodia's own voice as lead vocal.
- The film's duration is 124 minutes.
Perfect For
Frequently Asked Questions
Who directed the documentary I Build the Tower?
I Build the Tower was directed, written, and produced by Edward Landler and Brad Byer.
What is the duration of the documentary I Build the Tower?
The duration of I Build the Tower is 124 minutes.
What music is featured in the documentary I Build the Tower?
The musical score is based on the opera arias of Giuseppe Verdi and includes an original jazz score composed by Nate Morgan.
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