Helvetica. Good or bad?

21st September 2007..

 

“Wouldn’t it be interesting if there were only one typeface in the world? Designers would really have to think about the idea behind their designs instead of covering it up with fancy typefaces. One, universal typeface would really strip away all the flashy emptiness in design. And, of course, that one typeface would have to be Helvetica.” (Erik Kessels)

This film is a must for all Graphic Designers. It’s not just a homage to an incredible typeface, it’s an engaging and often hilarious mix of thought’s, feelings and opinions from a diverse mix of designers, typographers and writers. The film takes you on a journey through Helvetica’s history from birth to it’s vast and varied application throughout the world over the past 5 decades. My particular favourite contributions came from Erik Spiekermann. Although I don’t necessarily agree with him, his opinions on the most celebrated typeface were hilariously brutal.

Some more of my favourite quotes for your pleasure.

“Anyone who uses Helvetica knows nothing about typefaces.” (Wolfgang Weingart)

“Who would have thought that Helvetica would become the most official face of the 20th century – and therefore the most mundane. It is ironic that this “perfect” typeface, once designed to clarify communications, has become a symbol of corporate aloofness.” (Steven Heller)

“If you have no intuitive sense of design, then call yourself an ‘information architect’ and only use helvetica.” (David Carson)

“The perfection of Helvetia is its letterspacing capabilities – it leads to perfection in shape and form, but like a beautiful person it often lacks personality.” (Keith Godard)