The Brutalist

The story unfolds primarily in the aftermath of World War II, a time marked by struggle, loss, and the reshaping of lives for survivors of the Holocaust. Starting in the late 1940s, the narrative carries through the 1950s and into the 1980s, highlighting the ongoing plight and resilience of a family grappling with personal and societal challenges across decades.

The movie takes place in several significant cities, including Budapest, where László initially lives through the challenges of the Holocaust. After emigrating, he finds himself in Philadelphia, a city known for its rich history and role as a melting pot for immigrants. Later, New York City serves as the backdrop for László's architectural endeavors and challenges, while Jerusalem represents his family's hope for a new beginning.

🌹 Resilience

Resilience is a key theme as László and his family navigate the traumas of the Holocaust and the struggles of immigrant life in America. Despite the many obstacles they face, including loss, addiction, and violence, the characters demonstrate a persistent will to rebuild their lives and honor their past. This theme resonates profoundly as they strive for personal and professional fulfillment amid adversity.

🔗 Broken Bonds

The film explores the theme of broken bonds, particularly through László's separation from his wife and niece during the war. Their reunion is fraught with the emotional and physical scars of their experiences, which ultimately affect their relationships. The depiction of familial ties strained by trauma serves as a poignant reminder of the impacts of history on personal lives.

🖤 Addiction

Addiction emerges as a dark theme, particularly through László's secret heroin use and its effect on his family. The psychological burdens of war push László towards drugs as a coping mechanism, illustrating the destructive influence of addiction on relationships and dreams. This theme is intricately linked to the characters' search for solace in a world that feels increasingly chaotic.