The Brutalist, Brady Corbet’s sprawling 215-minute epic, has left critics and audiences awestruck with its monumental scale and masterful storytelling. The film tells the tale of Laszlo Toth, a Hungarian Jewish architect haunted by his past and driven to create his magnum opus. With an elegantly assured classicism, The Brutalist offers a sweeping narrative that unfolds like a mid-century Hollywood saga.
Adrien Brody delivers a career-defining performance as the troubled architect, bringing a sense of vulnerability and determination to the role. Corbet’s direction is similarly impressive, weaving together historical revisionism, political critique, and human portraiture with remarkable finesse. The cinematography by Lol Crawley is a standout, capturing the textured beauty of its subject.
The film’s true triumph lies in its balance between grandeur and intimacy. At over three hours long, it may seem daunting, but Corbet’s craftsmanship ensures that each moment feels earned and meaningful. As the credits roll, it’s impossible not to feel a sense of awe at this colossal achievement from an emerging director. With The Brutalist, Brady Corbet has cemented his place among modern American masters.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/film/2024/dec/20/best-movies-of-2024-the-brutalist