Frank Lloyd Wright: The Office For Edgar J. Kaufmann

Although the title may not sound like a reason to make popcorn, Frank Lloyd Wright: The Office for Edgar J. Kaufmann is actually a very entertaining look at the relationship between the often cantankerous legendary architect and his most famous client--J. Edgar Kaufmann, for whom Wright designed not only an office but a well-known house: Fallingwater (which if you'll forgive the pun, might be dubbed A River Runs Through It). Using historical footage and stills, interviews from Wright's contemporaries (including his architect grandson), and dramatic readings of the often acrid correspondence that passed between Wright and whoever happened to be the object of his ire at the moment, the program chronicles the rise of Wright's famous apprentice program (the Taliesin Fellowship, where aspiring architects were known to "spend a whole year in the kitchen without touching a pencil"). Created to continue Wright's work during the strapped Depression era, the fellowship worked on the commission from Kaufmann. The project would take a full two years, between 1935-1937, and experience a few setbacks and tantrums from the master. An engaging portrait of a powerful personality, Frank Lloyd Wright is highly recommended. (Available from: Sandpail Productions, 3608 Avenida del Sol, Studio City, CA 91604-4020; (818) 505-1650.)