"Architecton", interview with director Victor Kossakovsky

The role of concrete in shaping humanity's past, present, and future, in "Architecton" by Victor Kossakovsky.

"Architecton", interview with director Victor Kossakovsky Federica Scarpa

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At the 74th edition of the Berlinale International Film Festival, we had the pleasure of talking with Victor Kossakovsky, the director of “Architecton”, presented in the Official Competition section.
In this exclusive interview, Kossakovsky shares insights into the film’s genesis, the significance of showcasing unseen realities, and the urgent need for dialogue on humanity’s relationship with architecture and nature.

Exploring the Origin

“Architecton” marks the culmination of Kossakovsky‘s ambitious trilogy, a journey that began with “Vivan las Antipodas!“ in 2011 and continued with “Aquarela“ in 2018. With this trilogy, the filmmaker reshapes our perspectives on the world and our role, challenging conventional notions of human supremacy.

A Philosophical Inquiry

Central to Kossakovsky‘s work is the theme of human insignificance in the universe’s grand scheme. Drawing inspiration from Dostoevsky and Tolstoy, he questions humanity’s perceived dominance over other life forms and emphasizes the need for a paradigm shift towards a more inclusive worldview.

Navigating Through Time and Space

Through breathtaking imagery and profound storytelling, “Architecton” takes viewers on a transcendent journey across civilizations, from ancient ruins to modern-day metropolises. Victor Kossakovsky‘s lens captures the essence of time, reflecting on the rise and fall of societies and the enduring legacy of architectural marvels.

Technology as a Catalyst

The visual and sonic impact of “Architecton” is amplified by cutting-edge technology, allowing audiences to immerse themselves fully in the narrative. Victor Kossakovsky underscores the importance of leveraging technology to elevate storytelling and evoke meaningful discussions on pressing global issues.
The film confronts the harsh realities of urban destruction, echoing the aftermath of natural disasters and human conflicts. Through poignant visuals, Victor Kossakovsky sheds light on the fragility of modern civilization and the urgent need for sustainable architectural practices.

A Call to Action

“Architecton” is a poignant reminder of humanity’s collective responsibility towards nature. Kossakovsky advocates for a holistic approach to architecture that prioritizes respect for the environment and fosters a deeper connection with the world around us.
As we grapple with the challenges of the modern world, in “Architecton”, Kossakovsky urges us to envision a future guided by empathy, sustainability, and reverence for nature. We can pave the way for a more harmonious coexistence with the planet by reimagining our relationship with architecture.

“Architecton” transcends the boundaries of traditional filmmaking, offering a profound exploration of humanity’s past, present, and future. Victor Kossakovsky‘s visionary storytelling challenges us to rethink our role in shaping the world, inspiring us to strive for a future where architecture is a testament to our reverence for nature and our commitment to collective well-being.

Plot

From filmmaker Victor Kossakovsky (GUNDA, AQUARELA) comes an epic, intimate and poetic meditation on architecture and how the design and construction of buildings from the ancient past reveal our destruction — and offer hope for survival and a way forward.

Centering on a landscape project by the Italian architect Michele De Lucchi, Kossakovsky uses the circle to reflect on the rise and fall of civilizations, capturing breathtaking imagery from the temple ruins of Baalbek in Lebanon, dating back to AD 60, to the recent destruction of cities in Turkey following a 7.8 magnitude earthquake in early 2023.

Rocks and stone connect the disparate societies, from ghostly monoliths stuck in the earth to tragic heaps of concrete rubble waiting to be hauled off and repurposed anew. Through Kossakovsky’s inquisitive lens, the grandeur and folly of humanity and its precarious relationship with nature posits the urgent question: How do we build, and how can we build better, before it’s too late?