Analysis Of Gary Hustwit's Film 'Urbanized'

Gary Hustwit produced the documentary entitled Urbanized where it highlighted numerous projects around the world that has implemented enhancements that are in line with urbanized communities. Increasing walkability, improving the transit system, or transportation as a whole, are significant steps that are necessary to making cities more pedestrian friendly. Additionally, proper use of public space and housing were key contributors.
The numerous regions included in this film extend from all corners of the world to show just how relevant and important urbanization is. Gary and his team visited countries such as South Africa, China and Brazil while speaking with law makers, political officials and architects in an attempts to understand the logic

and purpose of such creative innovations that would support his claim that these changes are vital to accommodate population growth and maintain housing, transit and health as we know it.
The segment surrounding bicycling that was constructed in Denmark was absolutely captivating learning of the extent policymakers went to provide a safe zone for the commuters. Creating bike lanes in between parked cars and the side walk an ingenious idea.
Urbanization is composed of several entities however; the main three were captured in this film. Lo Barnechea, Santiago in Chile was a social project that explained what happens when the residents of the community are allowed to assist in the construction of the home, frequently called participatory design. In Bogota, Columbia heavy traffic was a result of too many cars on the road. The government decided to restrict parking which in turn would reduce the number of cars on the road and force it citizens to use Trans Milenio (public transportation). The Georgia Street Community Collective is a garden in Detroit where the residents work together to provide fresh produce and healthy food choices in the inner city thanks to Mark Covington and his passion to revive a once thriving community. This agricultural movement is a great example of self-organized urbanization.
Collectively, these projects along with many others that were not mentioned from
the film can be connected to Jeff Speck and the piece we discussed in class regarding urban innovations. The Walkable City video directly correlates with the message that Gary Hustwit has conveyed in this documentary.