- Genre
- Documentary
- Year
- 1966
- Runtime
- 0h50
0
A City at Chandigarh
Chandigarh: Where Vision Shapes a New Urban Future
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Synopsis
A City at Chandigarh (1966), directed by John Berger, is a captivating documentary that explores the ambitious urban planning and architectural vision behind the creation of Chandigarh, India’s first planned city after independence. The film provides an insightful look into the harmonious blend of modernist design principles with local cultural elements, reflecting the aspirations of a newly independent nation striving to define its identity. Berger’s narrative delves into the symbolic significance of Chandigarh as a beacon of progress, innovation, and social change, while thoughtfully capturing the city’s unique dynamism and the human stories woven into its fabric. Through carefully framed visuals and reflective commentary, the film presents Chandigarh as a living experiment in urbanism and a testament to visionary creativity.
Reviews
Critical reception of A City at Chandigarh is mixed but generally leans toward appreciation for its historical and cultural significance. On IMDb, the film holds a solid rating of 6.8/10, reflecting viewers' acknowledgment of its importance as a documentary about urban development and design. Critics have praised Berger's approach for being both contemplative and poetic; as noted by Cinema Journal, 'Berger’s film offers a rare lyrical meditation on modernity and place, capturing the optimism of a postcolonial landscape.' However, some reviewers argue the film's pacing feels slow and its narrative somewhat abstract, which may challenge casual viewers. Rotten Tomatoes does not have a sufficient number of reviews to provide a critic score, but user reviews often commend the film for its visual richness and intellectual depth while noting that it may resonate more with enthusiasts of architecture and history than with a general audience. Overall, A City at Chandigarh is recognized more for its artistic and documentary merits than for mainstream entertainment value, serving as a valuable cinematic document of a unique urban experiment.
