The Brutalist: A Cinematic Masterpiece
“The Brutalist”, directed by Brady Corbet, is a 2024 epic period drama that has captivated audiences and critics alike. The film stars Adrien Brody as László Tóth, a fictional Hungarian-born Jewish architect who survives the Holocaust and immigrates to the United States. Alongside him, Felicity Jones delivers a powerful performance as Erzsébet Tóth, László’s wife.
Set against the backdrop of post-war America, the film spans three decades and runs for an impressive 215 minutes, including a 15-minute intermission. The story follows László and Erzsébet as they strive to rebuild their lives and achieve the American Dream, only to have their lives changed forever by a mysterious and wealthy client, Harrison Van Buren, played by Guy Pearce.
The film’s commitment to authenticity is evident in its cinematic portrayal of Brutalism, the postwar period’s defining architectural movement. Shot almost entirely on 35mm VistaVision, a format widely abandoned in the 1960s, “The Brutalist” makes an event out of its theatrical screenings.
Despite its grandeur, the film has not been without controversy. Director Brady Corbet recently addressed criticisms surrounding the use of AI technology in post-production. The AI was employed solely to refine the Hungarian dialogue accuracy, ensuring linguistic precision without altering the performances of Brody and Jones. Corbet emphasized that the actors’ performances were entirely their own, and the technology was used with the utmost respect for the craft.
“The Brutalist” premiered at the Venice International Film Festival, where it won the Silver Lion for Best Direction, and has since garnered widespread acclaim. It has been nominated for seven Golden Globes, winning three, including Best Picture Drama, Best Actor for Brody, and Best Director for Corbet.
With its powerful performances, stunning cinematography, and a story that resonates deeply, “The Brutalist” is a testament to human complexity and resilience. It is a film that not only pays homage to the past but also offers a poignant reflection on the human spirit.