MSNN Media
Updated on: October 6, 2024 10:53 pm GMT
Justifying Length: The Bold Narrative of The Brutalist
Have you ever found yourself shifting in your seat, counting down the minutes in a long movie? Or perhaps you’ve sighed in relief when a film wraps up well under two hours? You’re definitely not alone. The conversation around movie durations has bubbled up again with the much-anticipated release of Brady Corbet’s The Brutalist, which extends to a staggering 215 minutes. As the film premiered at the Venice Film Festival, it raised eyebrows and sparked discussions about what it means to truly tell a story — especially one as complex and poignant as that of a Hungarian-born Jewish architect who survives the Holocaust to seek the American Dream.
The Need for Depth in Storytelling
In today’s film landscape, a common critique revolves around lengthy runtimes. Critics often argue that long films are hard to digest, leading to diminished audience engagement. Yet, during a passionate festival press conference, Brady Corbet fervently defended The Brutalist‘s extensive runtime, equating it to the rich layering of a 700-page novel that captures the vastness and intricacy of life. Corbet’s vision for the film is not merely to fill time but to create a comprehensive portrait of a life filled with struggles, triumphs, and artistic integrity.
He emphasized, “We should be past that, it’s 2024.” This statement hints at a call to expand the boundaries of storytelling in cinema. Corbet believes that every filmmaker should have the freedom to express their narratives in a manner that feels authentic, whether that’s in a traditional two-hour format or a more extended experience. He shared an insightful analogy, suggesting that criticizing a film’s length is akin to dismissing an expansive book because it is too long to read at one sitting.
A Standing Ovation Worthy of Its Length
The Brutalist made quite the impression at its Venice premiere, receiving a 13-minute standing ovation that underscored its emotional impact. The film stars Adrien Brody as László Tóth, accompanied by a talented cast including Felicity Jones and Guy Pearce. Audience responses indicate that the film’s length felt justified, as the rich storytelling and stunning visuals captivated viewers throughout. Critics have hailed it as a “monumental symphony of the immigrant experience,” a combination of artistry and emotional depth that resonates with anyone familiar with the pursuit of dreams against overwhelming odds.
Adrien Brody shared his own sense of connection to the film’s themes, drawing parallels to his mother’s journey of artistic pursuit after emigrating from Hungary. His words reflect a shared understanding among the cast and crew — that the struggles of the past shape the ambitions of the present.
Lengthy Films: A Growing Trend
Interestingly, The Brutalist is not alone in venturing into longer runtimes this festival season. Other films, from Joker: Folie à Deux to Lav Diaz’s Phantosmia, have also exceeded the two-hour mark, signaling a shift in how filmmakers choose to present their narratives. Alberto Barbera, Venice Film Festival’s director, pointed out that the industry is moving away from the traditional 90 to 120 minutes ostensibly due to the rising influence of television and streaming formats, which provide more complex storytelling opportunities.
This trend reflects a broader cultural shift where audiences are more frequently embracing extended narratives if the material warrants the extra time. It seems that moviegoers are increasingly willing to sit through a longer film — provided the story delivers on emotional and artistic fronts.
A Film for the Ages
In a time when cinematic experiences compete against home streaming options, The Brutalist stands out not just for its length but for its ambition and artistic integrity. It embodies the challenges and triumphs of immigration, the artistic struggle, and the quest for identity. As films like this push the boundaries of standard durations, they invite us to reflect on our viewing expectations and experiences.
From Corbet’s impassioned reasoning to the film’s warm reception, it’s clear that The Brutalist isn’t just a lengthy movie but a sprawling epic that merits the time investment. As we continue to navigate how we consume film, perhaps it’s time to embrace narratives that take their time exploring important themes, allowing for a richer viewing experience.
Conclusion: Embracing Change
Sometimes, we expect a lot from the stories we watch. We should remember that longer movies can give us more satisfying experiences with deeper and more interesting stories. Filmmakers often take chances with their plots, and that’s a big part of what makes movies special. They deserve our respect and the chance to grow. So, next time you think about how long a movie is, ask yourself if the story can really be told in less time. How will you feel after going on that journey? Let’s keep our minds and hearts open to all the amazing things movies can show us!