The Brutalist Reviews – A Three-Hour Masterpiece or Overly Ambitious?

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By kelly

László Tóth, a survivor of the Holocaust and an architect from Hungary, is played by Adrien Brody. He want to start again in the United States. Art, power, and struggle all play a part in shaping his journey.

Key Details About The Brutalist

CategoryDetails
Movie TitleThe Brutalist
DirectorBrady Corbet
Release DateJanuary 2025
Main CastAdrien Brody, Felicity Jones, Guy Pearce, Alessandro Nivola
GenreDrama, Historical, Biopic
ThemesArchitecture, Power, Artistic Struggles
Notable AwardsGolden Globe for Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actor
Filming FormatVistaVision, 70mm projection
IMDb PageThe Brutalist IMDb

An Inspiring Film About Overcoming Adversity

All of Corbet’s instructions are spot on. Strict and meticulous cinematography. Thanks to Lol Crawley’s cinematography, Tóth’s universe comes to life. The tale is as stark and unyielding as the film’s architecture.

VistaVision improves the overall quality. Immersiveness is achieved with the 70mm projection. All eyes are on the visuals. Each frame is painstakingly crafted by hand.

Adrien Brody’s Acting Is Remarkable

Brody plays László Tóth with subdued intensity. His heavy Hungarian accent adds authenticity, and his anguish is evident in every scene.

Erzsébet, portrayed by Felicity Jones, is Tóth’s wife. Her late arrival changes the film’s atmosphere, injecting tension whenever she appears.

Guy Pearce plays Van Buren, a powerful industrialist who finances Tóth’s work. Although he exerts control, he is vital to Tóth’s grand project.

Wealth and Art in Conflict

Tóth yearns to create modernist masterpieces but must rely on wealthy patrons. Commissioned by Van Buren, his massive undertaking blends aspiration with compromise, symbolizing the toll artistic ambitions can exact.

The film delves into the artist’s struggle—highlighting both the dream and the price of pursuing it.

A Breakdown of the Brutalist Finale

Anarchy erupts in the final act as conflict transforms Tóth’s world. His fate looms, and an epilogue carries the story into the 1980s, reintroducing questions about Tóth’s legacy. The present appears detached.

No easy answers are given. Multiple interpretations of the ending remain open to viewers.

Does the Brutalist Indulge in Hedonism?

At over three hours, the film challenges viewers’ patience. Some scenes feel extraneous, though they may deepen the narrative. Corbet’s ambition has been likened to Orson Welles, inspiring both awe and criticism.

For some, it’s excessive; for others, it’s sheer brilliance.

Improve the Overall Experience with Music and Sound Design

Daniel Blumberg’s score powerfully sustains tension and emotion, while subtle sound design immerses viewers in Tóth’s world, influencing mood and atmosphere.

Reception – Conflicting Opinions

Some critics hail the film as a masterpiece, while others find it lacking. Accolades and critiques alike paint a divided picture:

  • Impressive Critical Acclaim: “A cinematic achievement,” “Brody’s best performance,” “Visually breathtaking.”
  • Criticisms: “Too long,” “Emotionally distant,” “A technical feat, but not engaging.”

Honors and Acknowledgment

The film garnered significant awards, including a Golden Globe for Best Picture and ten Oscar nominations. Its success has propelled Corbet to recognition as a leading director.

Does Anyone Deserve to See The Brutalist?

Casual viewers may find it challenging, but patient, introspective film lovers will likely deem the experience rewarding. Vast, intricate, and divisive, it leaves a lasting impression—whether cherished or criticized.