On January 28, 2025, The Dorchester hotel was alive with excitement as Academy Award-winning actor Adrien Brody and producer Trevor Matthews discussed their contributions to the Oscar-nominated film, The Brutalist. The film has made waves by securing ten Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture, and winning several accolades at the Golden Globe Awards, solidifying its status as one of the top contenders for this year's Oscars.
During a candid conversation led by Charles Finch, Editor-in-Chief of A Rabbit’s Foot, Brody reflected on his role as László Tóth, a fictional character inspired by the architects who fled Europe during World War II. Brody noted, "László Tóth is a fictional character… he’s an amalgamation of beautifully architects of the era..." This intertwining of historical truth with fiction highlights the substantial loss to humanity of creativity and artistry erased by conflict, he said.
The film, directed by Brady Corbet, is centered around Tóth, who immigrates to post-war America, showcasing themes of ambition, identity, and the pursuit of the American Dream. Brody's portrayal of Tóth features his personal struggles, including addiction and dreams of success, which Brody described as being intricately woven throughout the narrative. Finch praised Brody's performance, stating, "You immediately give this heart-wrenching performance within the first few minutes of the film, and the audience is just staggered by it..."
Brody's commitment to his craft extends beyond the screen. He shared, "I spent 7 years renovating an old barn…" illustrating how his experiences have informed his acting. He expressed his appreciation for Brutalist architecture, noting how it has always intrigued him. "I don’t like all structures; some of them look like parking lots," he joked, reflecting on his love for certain designs within the movement.
Trevor Matthews, son of Welsh tech billionaire Sir Terry Matthews, has also made significant strides with his production company, Brookstreet Pictures. Matthews, who co-produced The Brutalist, has been recognized for the film's impact on the Hollywood scene. He remarked, "My family supported my filmmaking... They always believed success would come if I worked hard at it." Matthews is hopeful about Wales' growing reputation as a filming location and is eager to utilize its unique landscapes for future projects.
Plans are already underway for Brookstreet Pictures to explore new narratives, including the biopic Mr. Burton, focused on Welsh actor Richard Burton. Matthews expressed excitement about this project, noting, "It's been fantastic to see the development of Wales as..." underlining his commitment to promoting the region's cinematic potential.
The dialogue between Brody and Matthews demonstrated their shared passion for storytelling and film. They both acknowledged the industry’s ups and downs, along with Brody's reflection, "Persistent happiness is unrealistic. It’s not the human condition..." Adding depth to their professional journeys, Brody pointed out the creative outlets actors often pursue during quieter periods, mentioning painting as one such endeavor.
With The Brutalist now firmly established as a frontrunner this awards season, Brody and Matthews are eagerly anticipating the Academy Awards. They hope the film's recognition will inspire discussions about the significance of art, heritage, and identity. The film stands as not just entertainment but as a poignant reminder of the past and the creative brilliance shaped by history.