"Countercultural Architecture and Dramatic Structure" by David Mamet

The article “Countercultural Architecture and Dramatic Structure” by David Mamet focuses on purpose driven architecture and movie making. The author’s interest is to show how common mistakes architects and films makers run into when creating their art. In concentration of this concept, the author tries to show that the final product is not more important than the planning process.

This article does not involve any kind of study to support its claim. Although no study or research was done the author’s credibility lies in his previous experience of film work and his educational achievements.

According to the author, many architectural buildings have failed at its foundation. Most buildings that were built during the 60’s are not usable today because of a main reason, purpose. According to Mamet, these buildings lacked purpose. Most architects of that time focused on their own idea and vision for a building and would create the building for self-expression instead of its purpose, for it to be livable and useful.

Preproduction is the foundation for a strong, lasting, and useful building, a concept that architects in the 60’s were not familiar with according to Mamet. The concept of preproduction allows for versatility and maximum optimization of the building. When preproduction is done, an architect or builder has time to focus on the purpose and use of the building. After this is set and finalized, the architect or building can add their creativity and design.

Mamet points out in this article that human perception is an important concept to consider when creating a movie. Human perception works with an orderly timeline manner. As the brain processes different concepts trapped through the eyes, it tries to piece up all of these concepts to rationalize what is being seen. A director should be aware of this concept to create a connection between the purpose of the movie and the audience in a way that the audience can easily put together and not be confused.

The author suggests that we understand this concept in order to connect with the audience. First focus in the purpose of an assignment and then add creativity and design. For the documentary assignment, purpose will define connection with audience and will create meaningful moments and concepts.