Non-Spoiler: A Brutal Review of The Brutalist

Some movies remind you why cinema exists. This is one of them.

The Brutalist, widely released on January 24th of this year, is a film that only comes around once every few years. The script, acting, and cinematography  impeccably shape the story of Laszlo Toth, a Hungarian-Jewish architect who takes a chance to move to America, effectively starting a new life. Watching the movie in a 70mm format in IMAX was truly a blessing. I highly recommend seeing it on the big screen to enjoy the movie in all its glory.

The most noticeable thing about the movie was the soundtrack and Adrien Brody’s performance as Laszlo Toth. The soundtrack doesn’t just complement the film, it is what defines it. The horrific orchestral compositions are crucial in accentuating the movie’s emotional highs and lows, creating moments that linger long after the credits roll.

Well-known for his roles in The Pianist and Detachment, Adrien Brody brings Laszlo Toth to life with a performance that fully captivates the audience. His portrayal of Toth shows both the quiet resilience and relentless determination of a man who wants to rebuild his life in a foreign land. Brody’s delivery emphasizes the heartbreak of trying to rebuild one’s life. 

This movie was a masterpiece, and anyone who calls themselves a film enjoyer should most definitely check it out.
Ronan Kenyon ‘25, the author, is a staff writer for The Grace Gazette.