At the 97th Academy Awards held on March 2, 2025, Adrien Brody made history by winning the Best Actor Oscar for the second time, 22 years after his initial win for “The Pianist.” Brody received the prestigious award for his powerful performance as László Tóth, a Hungarian architect and Holocaust survivor, in the Brady Corbet-directed film “The Brutalist.” This win solidifies Brody’s status as one of Hollywood's most compelling talents.
The ceremony, held at the Dolby Theatre, saw Brody triumph over fellow nominees including Timothée Chalamet for “A Complete Unknown,” Colman Domingo for “Sing Sing,” Ralph Fiennes for “Conclave,” and Sebastian Stan for “The Apprentice.” Brody’s performance as Tóth—who immigrates to America after the Holocaust—has been hailed as both poignant and significant.
During his emotional acceptance speech, Brody reflected on the fragility of success, stating, “Acting is a very fragile profession. It looks very glamorous, and at certain moments it is, but the one thing I’ve gained having the privilege to come back here is some perspective.” He emphasized gratitude for still being able to do the work he loves. He thanked God for his “blessed life,” and acknowledged the love and appreciation he has received from the industry and fans alike.
Brody’s win marks him as the first leading actor to win two Academy Awards on his first two nominations, having secured his first Oscar for his role as Władysław Szpilman, the pianist, in Roman Polanski’s 2002 historical drama “The Pianist.” This second victory places him among the elite ranks of actors who have won the award more than once, including icons like Daniel Day-Lewis and Tom Hanks.
“The Brutalist,” which has received 10 Oscar nominations including Best Picture and Best Director for Corbet, is set against the backdrop of mid-century American architecture, showcasing Tóth's struggles as he works with industrialist Harrison Lee Van Buren to build a community center. Brody’s character experiences personal and artistic upheaval, paralleling the broader societal challenges faced during the post-war era.
Brody successfully articulated pressing social issues during his speech, stating, “I’m here once again to represent the looming traumas and repercussions of war, systematic oppression, antisemitism, and racism. I pray for a healthier and happier and more inclusive world.” His remarks reflecting current concerns on social justice and inclusivity struck a chord with the audience and viewers alike.
After “The Brutalist” premiered at the Venice Film Festival, where it received numerous accolades, Brody continued to gain traction through various awards, including wins at the BAFTAS, Golden Globes, and Critics Choice Awards. The film has become an awards season darling, lauded for its authenticity and emotional depth.
Reflecting on his career, Brody has often spoken about the impact of his first Oscar win, describing it as transformational. “It was such an awakening for me at such a young age,” he noted. “I felt the weight of responsibility to portray the history and the losses of millions, which has shaped who I am today as an artist.” His current role re-engages with themes of Jewish identity, survival, and the immigrant experience, much like his previous Academy-winning performance.
“The Brutalist” holds significant relevance, especially considering the turmoil observed globally over the last couple of years. With its central narrative focusing on hope and rebuilding, the film encourages reflection on societal progress and unity. Brody’s portrayal and the film's themes resonate deeply with contemporary audiences, showcasing the enduring quest for belonging and acceptance during turbulent times.
Outside the awards circuit, Brody’s versatility and career longevity have allowed him to collaborate with prestigious directors such as Woody Allen and Spike Lee, solidifying his place as one of the most respected actors of his generation. His ability to seamlessly blend various roles—from intense drama to lighter fare—demonstrates his range as an artist.
Leading up to his Oscar win, Brody remains optimistic about his future projects and the roles they may bring. “Winning this award signifies more than just recognition; it’s a chance to begin anew and prove myself worthy of challenging and relevant roles,” he stated.
Brody’s artistic endeavors, reflective of his experiences and heritage, continue to inspire both audiences and future storytellers to engage with complex narratives and the power of resilience. His second Academy Award win is not just personal triumph—it's also emblematic of the stories yet to be told, stories rich with diversity and human experience.