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Deep Dive: Urbanized (2011)

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Urbanized
Urbanized is a documentary directed by Gary Hustwit that examines the design of cities. Released on 26 October 2011, it is part of the Design Trilogy, following Helvetica and Objectified. The film features interviews with notable urban planners and architects, including Oscar Niemeyer and Jan Gehl, providing insights into their philosophies and approaches to urban design. The documentary presents various themes related to urban design and includes a set of four limited edition posters commissioned by Hustwit for marketing. Critics received the film positively, with Roger Ebert giving it three out of four stars and suggesting it could have benefited from more interviews with ordinary people. A.O. Scott from The New York Times noted a bias towards Jane Jacobs-influenced new urbanism, while TimeOut praised its visual appeal and engaging interviews.

Why Watch

  • •Meet Oscar Niemeyer and Jan Gehl in interviews.
  • •See a unique perspective on urban design.
  • •Find out why critics praised its visual style.

Did You Know

•Urbanized was released on 26 October 2011.
•Gary Hustwit directed Urbanized as part of a three-part series.
•Roger Ebert rated the film three out of four stars.

Perfect For

Urban planning enthusiastsArchitecture studentsDesign professionals