Review: Proof that Hollywood film stars are dedicated to saving the environment, Design E2 serves as a potential follow up to the Oscar-loved An Inconvenient Truth. I say that half in seriousness and half in jest, which is ultimately the two feelings I have for this documentary. Design E2 is a six part PBS series that tried to ride the wave created by Al Gore's film and in the process add more depth and practical knowledge to a subject most people don't know how to help out with. Of course, telling people to turn off their lights and turn down their thermostat isn't the most interesting tv series, so director Tad Fettig decided to focus on the ecological friendly building designs that are currently being put into practice. Narrated by Brad Pitt, the film suffers from an analysis of ideas and people who don't necessarily relate with everyone. Most the architects are not mainstream and are trying to push the envelope. They are also partially artists who find beauty in the unusual. Though their ideas are brilliant and should be used by more contractors, sometimes you'll find yourself laughing at the comments they make about designs. I do applaud Fettig's attempt not to become enamored with his “green” interviewees. Though they are certainly painted in a positive light, he attempts, ever so slightly, to show they are not perfect. I will admit, the series overly praises both the ideas and people, but not nearly as far as the crew in An Inconvenient Truth. Because the story can be sort of dull, Fettig does try unique technical work to keep viewers interested. This is both a plus, and a minus. The positives are found in the rich clarity of the camerawork, using deep colors and off angles. He also moves most his interviews outside the usual office setting, pulling them away from walls and usually giving tons of space behind them. This alone is worth the time investment. But there are some negatives: I for one came to despise the blurring technique they used for the right side of the camera lens. Though it created interesting shots, it also cut out things and became a distraction by the end. I believe it was a risk Fettig took, but it is a risk that cost him. Additionally, while there are many amazing shots, there are a few that look either out of focus or not properly lit. Unfortunately, these shots which would look normal in most documentaries, stood out like a sore thumb next to the brilliant camerawork of this series. Another major problem with this film is the steep learning curve for viewers. Most of the ideas receive little explanation and we are required to take it on faith that they do improve the quality of life. Terms and ideas are thrown around and at times, I was completely confused. But, as usual, I'm harsher on the films I expect more from, and this documentary is no exception. Though there were down spots, I did enjoy the experience and feel at least a little bit more informed. If you appreciated An Inconvenient Truth and want to know where to go next, Design E2 is a logical follow up. Review by Matthew Abshire Informative: 3- Though it does provide awareness, you will need decent knowledge of architecture and the latest “green” technology to understand everything fully. Entertainment: 3- Even with Brad Pitt narrating, architecture can only be so interesting. Technical: 3- Only downside was blurring technique around the edges that was used far too often. Overall: 3- A worthy follow up documentary series if you enjoyed An Inconvenient Truth.
Design e2
Format: DVD Year: 2006 Running Time: 180 Min Distributor: PBS Producer: Eva Anisko Director: Tad Fettig Date Reviewed: 4-29-2007 Story: A six-part series about national and international efforts to design and build eco-friendly structures through sustainable architecture (IMDB).