SCHINDLER SPACE ARCHITECT is a newly released full-length documentary examining the works, life, and legacy of a pioneer of Modern architecture, R.M. Schindler, narrated by Meryl Streep, and Udo Kier, featuring renowned architects Frank Gehry, Steven Holl, Thom Mayne, Ray Kappe among many others.

Austrian-born and educated, Schindler changed forever the architectural landscape of Los Angeles and laid the foundation for what now is considered the California lifestyle of indoor-outdoor living. His house on Kings Road in West Hollywood, built in 1922, was the birthplace of Southern California Modernism, so celebrated today. A true original, Schindler experimented and invented over a period of 30 years, suffering the ups and downs of a creative genius, forging his own vision.

This documentary explores Schindler’s richly complex work with its influences from the turn of the 20th century Vienna, the early work of Frank Lloyd Wright, the pueblos of Taos, and the 20th-century realities of Southern California. It is an investigation into Schindler’s philosophy of Space Architecture as contrasted with the International Style that ruled Modern architecture during most of the architect’s life. It engagingly re-examines Schindler’s complicated relationship with his mentor Frank Lloyd Wright, and his former friend turned rival, Richard Neutra. Both Viennese, Schindler, and Neutra became the quintessential California architects–Neutra celebrated, and Schindler overlooked.

The documentary asks key questions about the importance of domestic architecture in creating a national culture and as a living entity that shapes humanity. It affirms the singular genius of one man, and the eternal challenge every artist faces to stay true to their vision to leave a lasting impact.

Director: Valentina B. Ganeva 90 mins | US | 2024

View Trailer HERE