Objectified

Gary Hustwit follows up his acclaimed 2007 documentary Helvetica (on the titular typeface) with this stylish examination of the aesthetic considerations that go into the creation of manufactured objects. Hustwit notes how every object made for consumer use—from the simplest toothbrush to the most complex automobile—is subjected to an excruciatingly detailed design process, and he celebrates the designers who labor in abstract thoughts, pencil sketches, and 3D computer-aided design. Arguably, consumer electronics presents the greatest challenge—the ability to create smaller devices that retain sharp audio and visual elements is crucial to keeping the industry alive. But even the lowly vegetable peeler has undergone an evolution of sorts, as original metal versions have given way to rubber-handled designs to accommodate people with arthritis. Featuring interviews with designers from industry leaders such as Apple, BMW, Braun, IKEA, and others, the film unfortunately tries to cover too much material in 75 minutes, but despite this minor shortcoming, Objectified is very compelling and endlessly fascinating. DVD extras include an hour of interview footage and a booklet with liner notes by Hustwit. Highly recommended. Aud: C, P. (P. Hall)