After watching the 2007 documentary film Helvetica, directed by Gary Hustwit, and taking notes on the film, consider the following questions:
- What were the historical conditions that the typeface was created in, and what was the cultural influence that Helvetica has had over the last several decades?
- How did graphic designers who were aligned with the postmodernist or grunge movements respond to the use of Helvetica?
- What did you, personally, find surprising or notable? Think about how the decisions that the filmmakers made influenced your understanding of Helvetica and the narrative around it. You can also comment on how this documentary informed your own creative practice or understanding of personal expression, if you’d like to.
