A standing ovation for ‘The Brutalist’ at Venice Film Festival
A night to remember
Brady Corbet’s historical drama, The Brutalist, captivated audiences at the Venice Film Festival, earning a remarkable 12-minute standing ovation. The film, featuring Adrien Brody, Felicity Jones, and Guy Pearce, left an indelible mark on the festival’s attendees.
An emotional moment for Adrien Brody
Brody, who portrays a Hungarian Holocaust survivor striving to rebuild his career as an architect in the United States, was visibly moved by the overwhelming applause. As the audience’s clapping persisted, Brody, with tears in his eyes, attempted to redirect the praise towards his director and co-stars. However, the spotlight remained firmly on him, highlighting his powerful performance.
The journey of László Tóth
The Brutalist chronicles 30 years in the life of László Tóth (Brody), a Hungarian-born Jewish architect who survived the Holocaust. According to the film’s synopsis, after World War II, László emigrates to the United States with his wife, Erzsébet (Jones), in pursuit of the American dream. Initially facing poverty and indignity, László’s fortunes change when he secures a contract with a mysterious and affluent client, Harrison Lee Van Buren (Pearce), altering the trajectory of his life.
For more details, you can watch the trailer for The Brutalist.
A stellar ensemble cast
The film boasts an impressive cast, including Joe Alwyn, Alessandro Nivola, Jonathan Hyde, Isaach De Bankolé, Raffey Cassidy, Stacy Martin, Emma Laird, and Peter Polycarpou. Corbet, in addition to directing, co-wrote the script with his wife, Mona Fastvold.
Corbet’s journey as a director
Corbet is no stranger to the Venice Film Festival. His directorial debut, The Childhood of a Leader (2015), earned him the Luigi De Laurentiis award for best debut film and the Horizons best director prize. His 2018 film, Vox Lux, also competed for the Golden Lion. The Brutalist is now in contention for the festival’s top honor.
A unique cinematic experience
In a recent interview, Corbet shared insights about The Brutalist, revealing that the 215-minute, 70mm film includes an intermission. “I like the idea of them,” he said. “It gives everyone time to reset, and no one has to stress about missing a scene to run to the bathroom, which is a legitimate concern for longer films. I would describe it as a rolling intermission. The movie doesn’t stop exactly. There will be images and sound, and there is a timer to let the audience know how much time is left.”
Reflections on cinema and storytelling
For cinema enthusiasts, The Brutalist offers a profound exploration of resilience, ambition, and the human spirit. The film’s narrative, spanning three decades, delves into the complexities of identity, survival, and the pursuit of dreams in a new land. Brody’s portrayal of László Tóth is a testament to his versatility and depth as an actor, bringing to life a character marked by both vulnerability and strength.
The power of historical dramas
Historical dramas like The Brutalist serve as a bridge between the past and present, allowing audiences to reflect on significant events and their enduring impact. They offer a lens through which we can examine the human condition, understand different perspectives, and appreciate the resilience of those who came before us.
Final thoughts
The Brutalist is more than just a film; it’s an experience that resonates deeply with its audience. Its standing ovation at the Venice Film Festival is a testament to its powerful storytelling, exceptional performances, and the emotional journey it offers. For those who appreciate cinema that challenges, inspires, and moves, The Brutalist is a must-watch.
For more information and to watch the trailer, visit The Brutalist.