An unassuming architecture teacher from Copenhagen suddenly finds himself at the center of a bold, political mega-project. When Otto von Spreckelsen unexpectedly wins an international competition launched by French president François Mitterrand, his life, and vision, take a dramatic turn.
Genre: biography, drama, history
Language: English, French, subtitles: English
Length: 1 hr 44 mins (2025)
1983. French President François Mitterrand launches an international architectural competition for the flagship project of his presidency: the Great Arch of La Défense, aligned with the Louvre and the Arc de Triomphe. Against all odds, Danish architect Otto von Spreckelsen, wins the competition. Virtually unknown in France, the 53-year-old suddenly finds himself in Paris, leading a monumental project of unprecedented scale.
But as he strives to realize his vision exactly as imagined, ambition collides with reality. Political pressure, technical constraints, and shifting interests turn the project into a complex negotiation between ideals and compromise.
A must-see for (future) architects, and anyone curious about the forces behind iconic design.
Reviews
“A visionary architect crushed by the politics of prestige.” The Guardian
“Claes Bang captivates as an unknown Danish architect battling French bureaucrats to build his monumental work.” The Hollywood Reporter
“Perfectionism at a cost.” Loud and Clear Reviews
Ticket information
This film will be shown at Filmhuis De Zwarte Doos.
- Tickets must be purchased online in advance and can be bought by clicking the black “Order” button on this page.
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Please be on time
The screening of the film begin promptly at 19:30 (with no pre-film advertisements), and the cinema hall will open at 19:10. We kindly request that you arrive at the ticket counter at least 10 minutes beforethe start of the film to ensure a smooth and timely experience for all.
The Studium Generale film program is created in collaboration with the Student Film Committee and Natlab.