Sagrada: The Mystery of Creation

One of the most iconic and enduring human structures ever built, Barcelona’s La Sagrada Familia is a unique and fascinating architectural project conceived by Antoni Gaudi in the late 19th century. More than 125 years after construction began, the basilica still remains unfinished. Sagrada: The Mystery of Creation celebrates Gaudi’s vision and the continuing work of countless laborers, artisans, designers and architects as they strive to complete the colossal project while delving into the mysterious process of artistic creation.

La Sagrada Familia was commissioned by the Order of St Joseph in 1882. After conflicts arose between the Order and the original architect, 31 year old Antoni Gaudí was hired to complete the design. A devout Catholic and architectural prodigy, Gaudí envisioned a place of worship that combined elements of classic French Gothic style and the curvilinear, organic aspects of the budding Art Nouveau school.

Over the next century, construction was interrupted due to lack of funding and the disruption of the Spanish Civil War, World War I, and World War II. Despite decades of delays, thousands of artisans, lab, and designers have contributed to the ambitious and glorious landmark. Inspired by Gaudí's vision, the film explores our fundamentally human search for the meaning of existence, and the quest for creative expression.

In the midst of the hustle and bustle of the Catalonian metropolis, the documentary investigates the structural developments of the Sagrada Família while allowing the audience time to observe, perceive, and reflect upon the historical, artistic and personal significance of the basilica. Director Stephan Haupt introduces us to the artists that continue Gaudi’s work in the 21st Century. Etsuro Sotoo, a Japanese sculptor and former Buddhist who has worked as a chief sculptor at Sagrada Familia for over 30 years. His reverence for Gaudi’s work led him to convert to Catholicism and begin advocating for Gaudi’s canonization. Josep Subirachs, the highly controversial designer of the Passion façade. Jordi Bonet, the chief architect, continues to fight for the completion of the Sagrada Familia which will one day reach a height of 170m and become the tallest structure in Barcelona.