The Brutalist Examines the Intersection of Trauma, Art, and Identity in Epic Form

HeyUGuys describes The Brutalist as “a monumental achievement with an ambitious scope, powerful performances, and a profound exploration of historical and personal themes.” The review highlights the film’s meticulous direction and Adrien Brody’s extraordinary performance as the protagonist, László Tóth, a Hungarian Jewish architect. They call it “a film that will be studied and revered for years to come”​ HeyUGuys

The Playlist notes that the film is “a masterful period epic,” with a significant focus on the excess and opulence of post-war America. The film’s setting, characterized by “concrete and steel but also of sweat and grime,” reflects the immigrant experience in a new and unfamiliar world​ The Playlist

Brady Corbet’s “The Brutalist” is a 215-minute epic that chronicles 30 years in the life of Hungarian-Jewish architect and Holocaust survivor László Tóth, played by Adrien Brody. The film, shot in the expansive VistaVision format and projected on 70mm film stock, mirrors the weight and scale of its protagonist’s architectural vision. Tóth’s journey from post-war Europe to America in pursuit of a better future is as heavy and concrete as the monolith he constructs, capturing the essence of his struggle and the intersection of personal trauma and collective history.

Give it to me now!!! I’m so ready to see this! I’m so on board for Guy Pearce finally getting his due.. A fantastic actor who has been showing so remarkable range in his performances since the 90s.. Can’t wait to see what he does here in a supporting role. #TheBrutalist pic.twitter.com/HvJbGi3UBX

— TrickRivers (@PRivers87) September 1, 2024

Corbet, known for his bold storytelling in films like “The Childhood of a Leader” and “Vox Lux,” continues his exploration of the cyclical relationship between trauma and culture in “The Brutalist.” The film portrays how Tóth’s personal experiences shape his architectural creations and, in turn, reflect the broader historical and cultural context of post-war America. The narrative unfolds with a kinetic prologue that juxtaposes Tóth’s old life in Europe with his new beginnings in America, highlighting the inescapability of his past and its influence on his present.

Screen Daily emphasizes the film’s epic nature, comparing its depth and complexity to the classics of cinema, stating that The Brutalist “requires patience and engagement from its audience,” but rewards viewers with its detailed storytelling and profound thematic content​(

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Upon arriving in America, Tóth is immediately faced with challenges that echo his past traumas. His cousin in Philadelphia, portrayed by Alessandro Nivola, embodies the duality of assimilation and loyalty, urging Tóth to blend into American society by abandoning his heritage. However, Tóth’s deep-seated values and distinct identity prevent him from conforming, setting him on a path that both isolates and defines him.

Tóth’s talent as an architect quickly catches the eye of Harrison Lee Van Buren, a wealthy industrialist played by Guy Pearce. Van Buren sees an opportunity to exploit Tóth’s skills, offering him a commission to build a massive civic structure—a project that eerily mirrors the concentration camp Tóth survived. This dynamic between Tóth and Van Buren becomes a central tension in the film, exploring themes of exploitation, power, and the immigrant experience in America.

The Film Stage compares The Brutalist to The Master and There Will Be Blood, highlighting the film’s “ecstatic transcendence” and how it serves as a “reminder of what cinema does best.” The review appreciates the collaboration between composer Daniel Blumberg and cinematographer Lol Crawley, noting that their work significantly contributes to the film’s impact​Film Stage

As Tóth immerses himself in the project, the film delves deeper into his psyche, revealing his inner conflicts and disillusionment. Brody delivers a powerful performance, capturing the essence of a man torn between his dreams and the harsh realities of his new world. The film’s production design by Judy Becker plays a crucial role in bringing Tóth’s architectural vision to life, transforming the Institute into a character of its own, symbolizing the intersection of art, ambition, and trauma.

“The Brutalist” also touches on the broader themes of capitalism and labor, as Tóth’s relationship with Van Buren becomes a dance of exploitation and power. The film culminates in a dramatic showdown in the marble quarries of Carrara, where the stark contrast between the epic setting and the intimate human drama underscores the inseparability of past and present, form and function.

Brady Corbet Says Discourse Around Film Runtimes Is ‘Quite Silly’ as He Premieres 215-Minute ‘The Brutalist’: ‘We Should Be Past That, It’s 2024’ https://t.co/Vb48G5nqLg via @variety

— Steven Gaydos (@HighSierraMan) September 1, 2024

While the narrative occasionally meanders, the film’s visual and thematic depth keeps the audience engaged. “The Brutalist” ultimately serves as a towering reflection of its protagonist’s life, capturing the profound connection between art, history, and identity. It challenges viewers to consider how personal and collective histories are inextricably linked, much like a snake biting its own tail.

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• Vulture points out that The Brutalist is “half of a great movie,” suggesting that while parts of the film achieve greatness, others might not hit the mark as strongly. Nonetheless, the review acknowledges Corbet’s ambitious vision and the film’s striking visuals .
• IndieWire describes The Brutalist as “brilliant but frustrating,” recognizing the film’s bold artistic choices and epic length as both its strengths and challenges. It praises Corbet for his daring storytelling and the film’s ability to leave a lasting impression .
• The Telegraph calls The Brutalist a “state-of-the-US historical epic,” with a blend of “classical Hollywood comic drama,” acknowledging Adrien Brody’s performance as “tremendous” in his portrayal of a visionary architect .
• IONCINEMA discusses the film’s “survival instinct of rational egoism,” portraying its protagonist as an individualist archetype. It notes the film’s thematic exploration of freedom and personal determination amidst the constraints of a post-war environment .
• The Film Stage further notes that the film has “moments that will carry with viewers,” such as scenes in the marble quarries of Carrara, which they describe as iconic moments in cinema that help rekindle a love for the medium​ Film Stage
• ScreenRant praises the film’s “colossal triumph,” highlighting the film’s narrative depth and the director’s ability to weave a compelling story that spans decades. They recognize the film as a “super-sized historical drama” that is both ambitious and impactful .

Key Points:

• Epic Narrative: “The Brutalist” spans 30 years in the life of architect László Tóth, exploring the intersection of trauma, art, and identity.
• Immigrant Struggles: Tóth’s journey to America reflects the challenges of maintaining personal identity while facing societal pressures to assimilate.
• Exploitation and Power: The film examines themes of exploitation through Tóth’s relationship with a wealthy industrialist, who uses his talent for personal gain.
• Visual and Thematic Depth: Stunning visuals and production design underscore the film’s exploration of how personal trauma and collective history shape artistic expression.
• Complex Character Study: Adrien Brody delivers a compelling performance as Tóth, capturing his inner conflicts and resilience in the face of adversity.

Fallon Jacobson – Reprinted with permission of Whatfinger News