High Rise and Fall 1993
Dive into the fascinating story of Glasgow's Queen Elizabeth Square in *High Rise and Fall* (1993), a gripping documentary that explores one of the UK's most controversial Brutalist landmarks.
Director: Conrad Blakemore
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is High Rise and Fall (1993) about?
This documentary chronicles the dramatic life of Queen Elizabeth Square, a Brutalist housing complex in Glasgow built in the 1960s as part of a Modernist vision to redevelop the Gorbals. The film follows the building's journey from architectural triumph to its controversial demolition in 1993, framed by the memories of those who lived there.
Who directed High Rise and Fall?
The film was directed by Conrad Blakemore, who brings a sharp, observational eye to this story of urban decay and architectural ambition.
Who stars in High Rise and Fall?
The documentary features interviews with key figures like Basil Spence, Brian W Edwards, Janice Kirkpatrick, Tommy Smith, and Bailie James Mutter, whose perspectives shape the narrative.
Is High Rise and Fall (1993) worth watching?
For fans of social history, architecture, or gripping documentaries, *High Rise and Fall* offers a compelling look at a city's transformation—warts and all. While unrated on IMDb, its focus on a unique piece of urban history makes it a fascinating watch for those intrigued by the intersections of design and society.
How long is High Rise and Fall?
The documentary runs for 30 minutes.
High Rise and Fall (1993): The Rise and Fall of Glasgow's Brutalist Masterpiece — Full Info
Dive into the fascinating story of Glasgow's Queen Elizabeth Square in *High Rise and Fall* (1993), a gripping documentary that explores one of the UK's most controversial Brutalist landmarks. Directed by Conrad Blakemore, this 30-minute film follows the rise and dramatic fall of a Modernist vision that aimed to revolutionize urban living in the 1960s. Inspired by architect Le Corbusier's utopian ideals, Sir Basil Spence designed these towering Brutalist flats to replace the overcrowded tenements of Glasgow's Gorbals. Through the voices of those who lived in and shaped the building, the documentary captures the raw energy and eventual decay of a structure meant to embody progress, only to meet its end in a fiery 1993 demolition that shocked the nation.
The film isn't just about bricks and mortar—it's a poignant reflection on ambition, failure, and the human stories woven into the concrete. As the once-celebrated Queen Elizabeth Square crumbles, *High Rise and Fall* invites viewers to ponder whether grand architectural visions can ever truly align with the messy reality of city life.