The Brutalist follows the journey of László Tóth (Adrien Brody), a Hungarian-Jewish immigrant and Holocaust survivor, as he navigates post-WWII America. The film begins with László’s arrival in New York, where he is filled with hope and ambition. He starts working at his cousin’s furniture shop, but his life takes a dramatic turn when he is hired by the enigmatic Harry Lee Van Buren (Joe Alwyn) to remodel a library. The project becomes a metaphor for László’s struggle to balance his artistic vision with the harsh realities of capitalism and societal expectations.

Themes

“The Brutalist” explores a multitude of themes, including:

Immigration and the American Dream: The film delves into the immigrant experience and the pursuit of a better life.

Capitalism and Artistry: It critiques the commodification of art and the tension between creative expression and commercial success.

Identity and Belonging: László’s journey is also about finding his place in a new world while holding onto his heritage.

Character Development

Adrien Brody delivers a career-best performance as László Tóth, portraying his character’s evolution from an optimistic immigrant to a disillusioned artist with depth and nuance. Joe Alwyn’s portrayal of Harry Lee Van Buren adds complexity to the narrative, serving as both a benefactor and a symbol of the oppressive systems László must navigate. The supporting cast, including Guy Pearce and Emma Laird, provide strong performances that enrich the story.

Director’s Style

Brady Corbet’s direction is ambitious and evocative. He employs a formalistic, almost dreamlike visual style that draws comparisons to classic American epics. The use of VistaVision cameras and a 70mm release format enhances the film’s grandeur and immersive quality. Corbet’s collaboration with cinematographer Lol Crawley results in stunning, transportive visuals that capture the era’s essence.

Technical Aspects

Cinematography: Lol Crawley’s work is a standout, with masterful compositions and a keen eye for detail.

Score: Daniel Blumberg’s score is epic and heart-swelling, perfectly complementing the film’s emotional beats.

Production Design: The meticulous recreation of post-WWII America adds authenticity and depth to the narrative.

Strengths

Powerful Performances: Adrien Brody and Joe Alwyn deliver standout performances.

Visual Mastery: The cinematography and production design are exceptional.

Ambitious Themes: The film tackles complex themes with intelligence and sensitivity.

Weaknesses

Pacing: The 215-minute runtime may feel excessive to some viewers.

Third Act: The final act occasionally borders on being heavy-handed in its messaging.

Overall Impact

The Brutalist is a monumental achievement in filmmaking, offering a thought-provoking and visually stunning experience. Its exploration of timeless themes and its ambitious scope make it one of the standout films of 2024. While its length and pacing may challenge some viewers, the film’s strengths far outweigh its weaknesses.

Recommendation: The Brutalist

For those who appreciate epic dramas with rich thematic content and exceptional performances, “The Brutalist” is highly recommended. It is a film that invites reflection and discussion, making it a must-watch for cinephiles and casual viewers alike.