Reyner Banham Loves Los Angeles

This documentary features architectural historian Reyner Banham exploring the city of Los Angeles in the early 1970s. Banham, known for his unconventional and enthusiastic approach to urbanism, takes viewers on a journey through the city's diverse landscapes, focusing on its automotive culture, unique architecture, and sprawling infrastructure. He argues that LA is a 'city of the future' and a masterpiece of the machine age. The film highlights Banham's iconic 'four ecologies' theory: the 'solar' desert, the 'oiled' coastal plain, the 'green' river valley, and the 'air' landscape.

While not a traditional film released to wide theatrical distribution, 'Reyner Banham Loves Los Angeles' is a highly regarded and influential documentary within architectural and urban planning circles. It is celebrated for its unique perspective and Banham's charismatic presentation. Critics and academics often praise its insightful and often provocative take on Los Angeles, even if its style is dated. It's considered a seminal work for understanding Banham's theories on urban environments and the automobile's role in shaping modern cities. Audience reception is primarily from those interested in architecture, urbanism, and cultural studies.

• Praised for its unique and enthusiastic exploration of Los Angeles's urban fabric.

• Valued for its introduction to Reyner Banham's influential 'four ecologies' theory.

• Seen as a distinctive and somewhat quirky, yet insightful, look at mid-20th century urban development.

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Reyner Banham's enthusiastic embrace of the automobile's influence on LA's urban form was considered radical and unconventional for its time, challenging prevailing criticisms of the city's perceived sprawl and lack of traditional urban structure.