A Conversation with John Burgee: The Architecture of Johnson/Burgee

The broken pediment that tops the former AT&T headquarters in New York City may be one of the most iconic images of 20th century architecture. From 1967-1991, its designers, the controversial, trend-setting firm Johnson/Burgee Architect created Postmodern architecture. Bob Stern, former Dean of the Yale School of Architecture, commented that in the history of contemporary architectural innovation “After the Seagram Building, you basically have AT&T.” He called it “a landmark for the city and for the history of architecture.” A new documentary explores the life and work of one of the two architects behind the design — the one who is much less known to the public. While many have interviewed Philip Johnson, this is the first feature length film devoted to John Burgee. Personal recollections about design decisions, working with clients, and his partnership with the outspoken and exuberant Johnson (1906-2005) give a behind-the-scenes look into this high-profile firm. Viewers and architects will learn what went into the creation of their landmark buildings, and enjoy Burgee’s anecdotes about the challenges and successes that architects experience in every project. Burgee gives a fascinating and personal look back at one of the major developments of 20th century architecture. “A Conversation with John Burgee” premiered to acclaim in a John Burgee building in October 2017. It was screened in New York City in June 2018, followed by a panel discussion with John Burgee, architectural critic Paul Goldberger, and Bob Stern. In 2017 this movie had its West Coast Premiere at the Music Academy of the West in Santa Barbara, California. In 2018 this movie had its East Coast Premiere at the Institute of Classical Architecture and Art in New York City.