Architectural Designs

Mel Gisbon did it: How Is This Possible..?

In the Film Conspiracy, Mel Gibbson's character Jerry Fletcher outfittied his appartment to self-destruct? WHen his apartment is raided he set it ablaze. But the rest of the building was left unharmed do to fire-containment systems he set up. Is it possible to rig an apartment or office in such a manner? Can an apartment or office be designed to self-destruct like this (destroy the office/apartment without damage to rest of the rest of the building)? And yes I know it was just a movie but is this possible, contained incineration in an apartment/office? Sorry for typos FTYI, I don't plan I doing this but was curious at how possibly this concept is?

Public Comments

1. Aside from it being a movie, and you thinking too much, it has the same mannerisms as spontaneous human combustion
2. He outfitted it with panels that kept the heat in, but that is some kind of writing convention to keep the script moving
3. I would think so - that would be a great suggestion/question for the myth busters. Maybe you should write them and ask them to try it out. I heard they are suppose to be coming out with another DVD Mega Movie Myths..... that was great.
4. I did watch this movie, it was an interesting concept but definitely illegal and dangerous. If there were other people in your apartment / office building, it would be hard for you to make it without them hearing you constructing the shielding so the whole building wouldn't burn. other than that, you would need something to light, presumably from an electric spark, because something heat-triggered would be extremely dangerous. You could put flammable insulation in the walls or something... I don't want to think too much about HOW it could be done, but I believe you could do something.
5. possible, but not probable. it is after all a movie.
6. It was the new flame proof pixie dust that Mel received shortly after lethal weapon 2 I think. He only has a little left after making this movie so it's unlikely he'll have more in time for the next blockbuster. Mel also chanted "the Building won't burn" chant several times under his breath to help make it happen. Try sending an E-mail to Mel and he will confirm these things as soon as he gets back from some place.
7. Most buildings already have fire walls that will pretty much accomplish that if the fire is not too severe or prolonged. It's a code requirement. Arson is still a felony though.