The Brutalist (2024) Image from IMDb

 

Image from IMDb

Brady Corbet’s The Brutalist is a haunting and visually striking drama that explores the life of a renowned architect, played by Tom Hiddleston, whose career and personal life begin to unravel as he confronts the darker sides of his own legacy. Set against the backdrop of post-World War II Europe, the film delves deep into the complexities of creativity, fame, and the moral compromises that come with success.

Hiddleston delivers a standout performance, portraying an architect whose ambition and obsession with his work slowly consume him. The film’s stark, minimalist visuals mirror the brutalism of the architect’s designs, creating an atmosphere that’s as cold and impersonal as the buildings he creates. Corbet’s direction is methodical, building tension slowly and allowing the audience to feel the weight of the protagonist’s decisions. 

The supporting cast, including Lily-Rose Depp and Caleb Landry Jones, provide strong performances that highlight the personal relationships that are strained by the architect’s pursuit of greatness. The film’s pacing is deliberate, which may feel slow at times, but it builds to a powerful and thought-provoking conclusion about the cost of ambition. The Brutalist is a film that challenges its audience, offering a deep exploration of the price of artistic genius and the personal toll it takes. It’s a film that will leave you thinking long after the credits roll.

Rating: 3/5 stars