Architects commission films primarily to illuminate a design process that words and still photos can strain to do. But something shifted this year. The judges gave the top award to a film that gleefully tossed out the rulebook.
Described by the filmmakers as a "fully independent, passion-fuelled labour of love" Pearls on Swine by Multitude of Sins is a not-so-ordinary house tour where the everyday unravels into theatre, philosophy and fable.
This judges' decision to fly the flag" for risk-taking came with an acknowledgment that without a commercial release, such an unconventional project might struggle to reach a wider audience.
A close contender, Heatherwick Studio’s film for Little Island, was lauded for its"strong messaging" by making the unusual decision not to interview the architects but rather "just talk to real people," which judges said made the film "unpredictable and engaging".
Meanwhile,the second winning film by Dion Barrett , focusing on a young Birmingham-based practice, was praised for its authentic portrayal of the firm's ethos and client relationships, was described by the panel as "beautifully edited and visually patient."
Both winning films are, in their different ways, challenging the stereotypical view of an architect by showing that imagination and empathy - while unusual ingredients in films about architecture and design - are the new blueprint for an award-winning cut.
WINNERS
Pearls on Swine
Intervention Architecture
