Watching and Writing Assignment: Helvetica The Movie

Hello Students,

Today we will be watching the documentary film: Helvetica, which is about the origin, uses and influence of the typeface Helvetica. Watch the film closely and take notes to use for your writing assignment. Answer and complete all activities listed below on your own blog:

Helvetica The Movie Watching / Writing Assignment:

• Where does Helvetica originate from? What country? 
• What does the original name mean? 
• What does Helvetica translate into English? 
• What year was Helvetica created? 
• What is the design style that Helvetica brought to popularity worldwide? 
• List the names of 3 different design styles or design movements that are discussed in the film. 
• Write about some of the insight about design you have taken away from the film. You can provide quotes if you like. 

ACTIVITIES:

• Where can examples of Helvetica be seen? Can you spot some examples on our own campus? Use your camera and take a picture of a few examples and include in your blog post. 
• Name 4 Designers that appear in the film. Look them up and show examples of their work, research and provide links to websites and any biographical information about them. Post the information to your blog. 

Thinking More Deeply:
Choose one of the questions below to answer in your post:

1. How does a typeface create a mood, feeling or image? Can you describe an occasion when you had a particular reaction to something in print, not because of the content, but because of the typeface?
2. In HELVETICA, design writer Richard Poynor says, “The designer has an enormous responsibility” as the person who is “putting wires into our heads.” What does he mean? How would you define that responsibility?
3. Think of the font you most commonly use when working on your computer. Which one is it and why do you use that one?
4. American designer David Carson says, “Don’t confuse legibility with communication.” What does he mean? What’s the difference between them?
5. How is design an expression of the times? How does politics affect the art of design?
6. What is your reaction to the grunge style of type and design? Why do you think you respond to it that way?
7. Imagine that the post office, your local bank or other government or corporate entity whose signage is familiar to you started using a different typeface. How would that change their image or your feeling about that business or organization?
8. What might you take away from this film in terms of possible effects on your work or other aspects of your daily life?
9. What changes, if any, has this film made in how you think about print and graphic design?