Wim Wenders’ 14-Year Odyssey to Capture Peter Zumthor’s Architectural Vision

Acclaimed filmmaker Wim Wenders has dedicated over a decade to creating his latest documentary, From Inside Out: The Architecture of Peter Zumthor, exploring the profound artistry of the Swiss architect. This two-hour film, which premiered at the Venice Biennale, offers an immersive look into Zumthor’s architectural journey, marking a significant milestone in Wenders’ career.

A Long-Standing Collaboration

The genesis of this ambitious project dates back to 2012, when Wenders was invited by British architect David Chipperfield to create a short film at the Venice Architecture Biennale. This initial venture, a two-day shoot in Zumthor’s office in Haldenstein, Switzerland, led to the short film Notes on a Day in the Life of an Architect. However, Wenders quickly realized that this brief encounter only skimmed the surface of Zumthor’s extensive work and philosophy. Reflecting on their handshake agreement to collaborate further, he remarked, “Little did we know that the journey would last 14 years…”

A Journey Through Space and Emotion

From Inside Out takes viewers on a journey through Zumthor’s most significant creations, from the St. Benedict’s chapel to the $724 million David Geffen Galleries at LACMA. Wenders emphasizes the importance of 3D technology in capturing the essence of architecture, stating, “Architecture is the one art, together with dance and theatre, that is unthinkable without space.” He believes that digital 3D filmmaking allows the audience to experience the spatial relationships inherent in Zumthor’s designs, transforming the screen into a 'window open to infinity.'

Beyond Traditional Storytelling

Wenders aimed to craft a film that transcends conventional documentary formats, avoiding the typical ‘talking heads’ style. Instead, he invites the audience to engage with architecture on a visceral level. Collaborations with various artists, including writer Siri Hustvedt and musician Sophie Hunger, enrich the narrative, allowing personal experiences within Zumthor’s buildings to shape the film’s chapters. For instance, Hustvedt’s encounter with the memorial for burned witches in Norway becomes a poignant exploration of memory and space.

Source: www.hollywoodreporter.com