There’s no better way to kick off the New Year than with awards season. And as the 97th Academy Awards draw near, there’s one film at the top of everyone’s mind: Brady Corbet’s third feature “The Brutalist”.
In a stretch dominated by exceptional cinema in all categories, the historical drama stands out for its sheer ambition, cinematic craft and emotional depth, receiving a pack-leading three wins at the recent 2025 Golden Globes, including Best Picture and Best Director.
Following his first two films “The Childhood of a Leader” (2015) and “Vox Lux” (2019), “The Brutalist” is Corbet’s most ambitious project yet.
At just 36 years old, Corbet has already established himself as one of the industry’s most innovative filmmakers, and this feature further cements his visionary reputation.
The story follows Hungarian-born Jewish architect László Tóth, portrayed in a career-defining performance by Adrien Brody, whose world is completely altered when he arrives in America after World World II, hoping to rebuild his life and career.
Brody’s performance is raw and deeply captivating, as he delivers intense dialogue in a thick Hungarian accent. You’d be forgiven for thinking this character was based on a real person, but the story is completely fictional. Yet as the film unfolds, László grows from quiet and reserved to a fully-realised character brimming with complex contradictions.
Alongside Brody, Guy Pearce impresses as a wealthy industrialist who gives László his big break, but not without his own agenda. Felicity Jones is equally powerful in her role as László’s wife, bringing humanity and emotion to balance the film’s bigger themes, and proving its storyline is as much about the pursuit of the “American Dream” as it is about the personal cost of ambition.
The film’s performances aren’t the only aspects worth noting. Clocking in at an audacious 215 minutes and presented in an exceptional VistaVision widescreen format, “The Brutalist” is every bit the classic Hollywood epic. Shot with meticulous precision and huge set pieces, every frame feels like a work of art, drawing the viewer into Corbet’s vision of László’s world.
Don’t worry, you don’t have to strap in for the duration. For those who need a mid-movie snack and bathroom break, the screen time is split into two chapters, with a 15 minute intermission.
The film’s structure allows viewers to fully immerse themselves in Corbet’s decades-spanning narrative, creating a movie-going experience unlike any other.
As awards season heats up, “The Brutalist” is set to be a major contender, with critics hailing it as a frontrunner for Best Picture, Best Director and acting nods for its incredible cast.
Beyond awards, the film is also a reminder of the power cinema still holds. In a world where screen time is in constant competition for our shortening attention spans, a film this lofty is a showcase for real, first-class storytelling.
Arriving in Australian cinemas on Jan. 23, “The Brutalist” is a must-see. From its addictive storyline, breathtaking visuals, and unforgettable performances, catch the film on the biggest screen possible.
See “The Brutalist” only in cinemas Jan. 23, 2025. Advance screenings Jan. 18 and 19.