The Age of Plastic
Who invented plastic? New documentary shines spotlight on the genius we hardly know
In the breezy and informative 58-minute documentary “All Things Bakelite: The Age of Plastic,” we’re introduced to the man whose name should be as well-known as Edison or Westinghouse or Bell or Tesla or Ford: Leo Hendrik Baekeland.
“Ben. I just want to say one word to you. Just one word. Are you listening? Plastics.” — Mr. McGuire, to Benjamin Braddock, in “The Graduate”
If you’re reading this on any device that involves plastic, or you’re using eyeglasses to do so, and maybe enjoying a beverage out of a plastic bottle, you have old school inventor Leo Baekeland to thank. And I know that not because I paid any attention at all in science class, but because I just watched All Things Bakelite, a fascinating documentary on the invention of a substance that I can just about guarantee that every single one of us takes for granted.
Interview by Pamela Perry of MIZ Hollywood and Flying Cloud Studios. A mind-expanding and emotional film about visionary Leo Baekeland the creator of PLASTIC. Directed by documentary filmmaker John Maher(Throw it Down) and Executive Producer Hugh Karraker, Leo Baekeland’s Great Grandson. Opening Worldwide June 29.
On June 29 the documentary film “All Things Bakelite” will be showcased worldwide. In partnership with Bitmax, Executive Producer Hugh Karraker is bringing Leo Baekeland’s story to six continents via streaming platforms such as iTunes, Apple TV, Google Play, YouTube, VUDU, and more.
In 1907 a man named Leo Baekeland changed our world forever. Leo was a Belgian chemist best known for his invention of Velox Photographic Paper in 1893. In 1907 Leo was deemed “The Father of the Plastic Industry” for his invention of Bakelite, an inexpensive, nonflammable, and versatile plastic which started the modern plastic industry we know today.
Documentary film All Things Bakelite: The Age of Plastic presents the story of the first and most beloved of polymers, which enabled a new era of elegance in the design of common objects. Along with the engrossing tale of the making of Bakelite is also the history of the eccentric genius chemist who invented it, Leo Baekeland, who is now regarded as the father of modern plastics. His painstaking research and experimentation over many years led to a process in 1907 that produced a strong but workable substance with a beautiful finish. The world was transformed, and all around us now are materials made possible by his discovery.