Adrien Brody delivers a powerful performance as László Toth, a Holocaust survivor and Hungarian architect, in the film *The Brutalist*, releasing on February 12. Spanning over 30 years and lasting more than three and a half hours, the film explores themes of resilience and displacement. Despite controversies surrounding the use of AI in dialogue, Brody emphasizes the authenticity of his portrayal, shaped by personal connections to his family’s immigrant experience.
Adrien Brody is already captivating audiences with one of the year’s most remarkable performances, and we’re just in February. He has tapped into his deepest memories to embody László Toth, the protagonist of The Brutalist, which hits theaters on Wednesday, February 12. This Holocaust survivor, a Hungarian architect of Jewish heritage, relocates to the United States with hopes of reconstructing what he can back home.
The Epic Tale of Resilience
Spanning over 30 years, this film extends beyond 3 hours and 30 minutes, including a 15-minute intermission. It offers a cinematic journey that is both raw and intense, driven by an extraordinary actor whose portrayal has already garnered him numerous accolades. Having won a Golden Globe and a Critics Choice Award, the 51-year-old actor is a contender for a second Oscar, 22 years after his initial win for The Pianist, where he depicted a Polish musician in the Warsaw ghetto.
Unforgettable Quotes and Personal Insights
As you can see, these opportunities are ephemeral. They are very rare, and when they arise, you really have to commit with all your strength
Adrien Brody
Despite his accolades, Brody’s journey to a second Oscar is complicated by recent comments from the film’s editor regarding the use of artificial intelligence to enhance certain Hungarian dialogues. Director Brady Corbet clarified that this technology was used solely to refine specific vowels and letters to maintain the authenticity of Brody’s performance, which he insists is entirely his own.
As the grandson and son of Hungarian immigrants who fled the war in 1956, Brody shared in Vanity Fair that he ‘grew up with this language’ and integrated ‘Hungarian curses that were not in the script.’ He emphasized that only certain lines were modified during post-production, and the dialect remained untouched, attributing the authenticity to diligent work with dialect coach Tanera Marshall. With the controversy behind him, Brody spoke to us from London about this deeply personal project, echoing a recurring theme of ‘remarkable.’
A Powerful Message ‘We tolerate you’ is a line from Harry Jr., the son of László’s affluent patron, in the latter half of The Brutalist. How does this phrase encapsulate the film’s stakes for characters who feel displaced?
That’s exactly the essence. Many individuals strive to contribute and integrate, often facing the burden of being overlooked or treated unequally despite their efforts and contributions. This film poignantly highlights the struggles of those who have worked hard to build new lives in unfamiliar places.
Reflecting on Your Journey The film also underscores that ‘what matters is not the journey but the destination.’ But let’s discuss your journey: from The Pianist to The Brutalist, from an Oscar to a nomination—how have these experiences shaped you as an artist?
That’s such a beautiful inquiry. The essence of acting lies in understanding that the highs and lows all contribute to a greater purpose. Each character offers insights that enhance your future roles and personal experiences. It’s incredible to have such significant experiences. I worked for 17 years before The Pianist, but that seems to be forgotten (laughs). I dedicated my life to achieving this specific goal of landing a role that’s complex, human, and fragile, in a film that addresses profound themes. Gaining recognition for this work is incredibly fulfilling, especially since I have devoted my life to reaching this pivotal moment. Opportunities like this are fleeting and rare, making it essential to fully commit when they arise.
Honoring Legacy You were visibly moved during your Golden Globes speech when you expressed gratitude towards your mother, photographer Sylvia Plachy, and your grandparents for their sacrifices. How did your mother react when you shared that you would star in a film reflecting her immigrant experience?
I think… (he contemplates) I stumbled upon the script years ago, and we recently completed the film. It must be profoundly moving for her to witness her son navigate his path while speaking on the challenges she and my grandparents faced, as well as the sacrifices made. Their experiences have enriched my life with complex layers and a strong foundation. It’s significant to honor this heritage through my craft, which draws inspiration from her creativity and worldview shaped by the struggles of war and its aftermath. It’s a poignant journey for all of us.
>> The Brutalist (3h35) directed by Brady Corbet, featuring Adrien Brody, Felicity Jones, Guy Pearce, and Joe Alwyn – in theaters on Wednesday, February 12