Architect Louis Kahn's Final Years Explored in New Drama

In 2025, a new period drama titled "Joy Will Prevail" is set to explore the final three years in the life of acclaimed architect Louis Kahn. The film, which recently wrapped production in Philadelphia, stars Griffin Dunne as Kahn and features a talented ensemble cast, including Alexis Bledel, Ben Rosenfield, Molly Ephraim, and Jennifer Beals.

Set in the early 1970s, the film follows Kahn at the height of his career, as he designs monumental structures around the world while quietly navigating a complex personal life. Kahn had fathered children with three different women - his wife, Esther Kahn (played by Beals), and two longtime partners, including landscape architect Harriet Pattison (played by Bledel) - all of whom lived with the knowledge of one another.

When a young father, Steve Korman (played by Rosenfield), and his wife, Toby Korman (played by Ephraim), approach Kahn to design a country home for their family, the architect initially declines. However, as personal and professional tensions mount, Kahn unexpectedly agrees, beginning a three-year collaboration that serves as a creative and spiritual reckoning for both men. This commission would culminate in the final house that Kahn ever designed, completed shortly before his sudden and mysterious death.

The film, written and directed by Max Korman in his feature debut, was produced by J. Andrew Greenblatt, Derek Dienner, and Alex Peace-Power. Filming took place at key architectural landmarks in Pennsylvania, including the Kahn Korman House, the Margaret Esherick House, and the Vanna Venturi House.