‘The Brutalist is an audacious, epic cinematic experience…’

Film Review by Rob Hinkal

An over three-hour-long study of the American dream, and what America takes from the immigrants who call it home, it is a truly unique piece of work that continues director Braden Corbet’s trajectory as one of the most fascinating directors in modern cinema. Not since 2023’s Oppenheimer has there been a film of such epic scale. And while the scale is impressive, it doesn’t feel like a gimmick. Instead of feeling like I was watching a movie taking place in post-World War II America, it felt like I was looking back at conversations and interactions between those alive during that time. It was like someone put me in a time machine. This is a truly immersive experience and one of the most impressive production feats I think I have ever seen. 

Adrien Brody truly becomes our protagonist. Felicity Jones is nearly unrecognizable. Guy Pearce personifies the American businessman of the mid-20th century to a snarling perfection. Nothing feels out of place. This is a cohesive and, again, immersive film. Frankly, as I sit and write about it, I wonder more and more just how they created such a well-rounded and realistic vision of a post-war America in all of its beauty and hideousness. 

It’s a triumph, but like all endeavors, there are some loose ends. The much-publicized “epilogue” section of the film comes to mind. It is a bizarre way to end the film especially when it takes such a drastic shift from the world we have been enthralled with for the past three hours or so. I can’t help but think that there are other ways the story could have concluded that would have been more emotionally resonant. 

At three hours long, you do feel the runtime. But then again, maybe that is the point. This isn’t an easy film to watch. It doesn’t paint a pretty picture of the immigrant experience nor should it. It goes to great lengths to prove its points and takes some turns that are bizarre, shocking, and difficult to fully comprehend. It never lost me, but this is not one for the faint of heart. 

This feels different. I haven’t seen something this textured and indescribable that works as well as this does. I’m sure I will return to it, but only when I know that I am prepared for what I am about to experience. I would highly encourage anyone interested in seeing it even the slightest bit to view it in theatres. You won’t regret it and I know I will never forget it.