The Brutalist: Adrien Brody and Felicity Jones Lead Powerful Drama About Immigrant Struggles

In this week’s Agua Caliente Entertainment Report, we delve into The Brutalist, a powerful new drama starring Adrien Brody and Felicity Jones. Set in post-World War II America, the film follows the journey of Hungarian immigrants navigating the complexities of survival in a foreign land. Brody plays a Hungarian architect who, despite his accomplishments, finds himself working as a coal shoveler in Philadelphia. This struggle for survival becomes a central theme, further complicated by the intense dynamic between Brody's character and his wife, played by Jones. Together, they grapple with the harsh realities of their new lives in America, while also confronting the psychological and emotional tensions that shape their relationship. Brody, whose mother is a Hungarian immigrant, brings a personal connection to the role, drawing on his own experiences to authentically portray the struggles of the immigrant experience. He recalls childhood memories of his grandparents that helped him understand the textures of his character’s journey. Jones, playing the wife, also brings depth to her role, portraying a character caught in a power struggle between her husband and Guy Pearce’s character, Van Buren. This subtle but complex tension forms the emotional backbone of the film, making for a compelling watch. Both actors are motivated by the desire to find material that resonates on a deeper level than mere entertainment. Brody highlights the beauty of film as a medium to leave behind something indelible, paralleling his character’s architectural journey. The Brutalist promises to be a thought-provoking addition to this year’s slate of films, with strong performances and a poignant exploration of the immigrant experience in post-war America.