The profound, much-anticipated documentary by Danny Berish and Ryan Mah, Arthur Erickson: Beauty Between the Lines, had its world premiere at ADFF Toronto.

On October 23, 2024, Toronto’s cinematic landscape glimmered with the premiere of Arthur Erickson: Beauty Between the Lines, a profound homage to the iconic Canadian architect Arthur Erickson. Directed by the visionary duo Danny Berish and Ryan Mah, this documentary transcends conventional architectural discourse, presenting a complex narrative of a man whose vision reshaped landscapes and lives.

As the theatre dimmed, the audience emanated palpable anticipation. Over 500 attendees — esteemed colleagues and fervent admirers alike — filled the space with a rich atmosphere of nostalgia. “It was a big thing. Bigger than I expected,” Mah reflected, recalling the heartfelt reunions sparked by the event. This gathering was more than a celebration of architectural prowess; it served as a poignant homage to the enduring connections forged through Erickson’s remarkable legacy.

The premiere resonated deeply, especially among those with personal ties to the architect. “You could feel the sensation… yes, he is Canada’s Frank Lloyd Wright,” Mah remarked, capturing the reverence that permeated the air. The project emerged from Mah’s serendipitous encounters with Erickson’s masterpieces in Vancouver, which ignited his fervent ambition to shine a light on this architectural luminary. “We have to make a movie about him,” he declared, recognizing the deeply personal narratives intertwined with these structures.

The filmmakers unearthed an Aladdin’s cave of archival treasures from Erickson’s family. “The family was ready to unveil that part of his life,” noted Berish, and the film deftly navigates between Erickson’s public acclaim and his private struggles. The documentary explores the delicate terrain of his life — his battles with dementia, the profound effect that the loss of his partner, Francisco Kripacz, had on him, and the shadows cast by professional decline.

Arthur Erickson: Beauty Between the Lines emerges as a lyrical exploration of love — both for architecture and the intimate connections that shape it. “Ultimately, it’s a story about architecture, but it’s really a love story,” Mah emphasized, referring to the emotional currents that enriched Erickson’s genius. This first feature for Berish and Mah, forged through nearly a decade of collaboration, radiates their shared vision. “Our relationship is very shorthand … there’s never any creative battle between us,” Berish stated, describing at their seamless partnership.

As audiences departed, many were struck by the documentary’s depth. “A lot of people didn’t realize Arthur had dementia,” Mah noted, referring to one of the film’s revelations. Arthur Erickson: Beauty Between the Lines invites viewers to appreciate Erickson’s legacy while reflecting on the personal sacrifices that fuelled his creativity.

Set for theatrical release in Vancouver and streaming on the Knowledge Network in January 2026, this documentary serves as a meditation on the interplay between artistry and existence. It beckons viewers to peer beyond the façades of Erickson’s creations and illuminates the profound relationship between artist and art, as well as inviting contemplation of the intricate tapestry of human experience that informs artistic vision.

INTERVIEW BY MARC CASTALDO

www.beautybetweenthelinesfilm.com
@blackrhinocreative