Is Joe Alwyn in The Brutalist? Explored

The Brutalist, starring Joe Alwyn, is a 2024 period drama directed by Brady Corbet that delves into themes of ambition, trauma, and resilience in post-war America. The film features an ensemble cast, with Adrien Brody portraying László Tóth, a Holocaust survivor turned architect who struggles to rebuild his life in the United States.

Joe Alwyn plays a pivotal role as Harry Lee Van Buren, the entitled son of a wealthy industrialist, Harrison Lee Van Buren, portrayed by Guy Pearce. Harry's interactions with László reflect the socio-economic tensions of the time and the personal conflicts that arise within the narrative.

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Joe Alwyn's role in The Brutalist explored

Joe Alwyn appears in The Brutalist as Harry Lee Van Buren, a supporting role that significantly impacts the story's progression. Harry is depicted as a privileged and self-centered individual, whose actions have lasting consequences for László Tóth, the central character.

The role required Alwyn to navigate a complex character who embodies both the arrogance and moral shortcomings of inherited privilege. He has described Harry as an insular and problematic figure, emphasizing the character’s representation of the power imbalances prevalent during the period.

Joe Alwyn's performance adds to the tension and conflict that drive the film’s exploration of societal and personal struggles in mid-20th-century America.

In an interview with the Guardian, Joe Awlyn stated:

"To be honest, I thought it might be a really good film that not many people would end up seeing. Given the things against it, given that it ticks most boxes of what you’re not meant to make as a film these days: length, content, all of that anything on top of that is a really nice surprise"

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What is Joe Alwyn's The Brutalist about?

The Brutalist is an epic period drama that follows the journey of László Tóth, a Hungarian-Jewish architect and Holocaust survivor, as he rebuilds his life in post-war America. Directed by Brady Corbet, who co-wrote the screenplay with Mona Fastvold, the film explores themes of ambition, trauma, and resilience.

László, portrayed by Adrien Brody, arrives in the US with dreams of achieving the American Dream but soon faces the harsh realities of discrimination and personal tragedy.

The film unfolds in three parts, chronicling László’s tumultuous career and personal life. After struggling to find work, he becomes entangled with Harrison Lee Van Buren (Guy Pearce), a wealthy industrialist who commissions him to design a grand community center.

However, the project becomes a crucible of ambition, betrayal, and suffering as László grapples with his past and the toxic relationships surrounding him.

The narrative spans decades, ultimately culminating in a retrospective of László’s work at the Venice Architecture Biennale. The story not only highlights the sacrifices and moral compromises made in pursuit of greatness but also examines how history and trauma shape personal and collective identity.

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Cast and more details of The Brutalist explored

The Brutalist features a stellar cast led by Adrien Brody as László Tóth. Felicity Jones co-stars as Erzsébet Tóth, László’s wife, whose personal struggles reflect the emotional toll of their shared experiences.

Raffey Cassidy delivers a haunting performance as Zsófia, László’s orphaned niece, while Guy Pearce shines as Harrison Lee Van Buren, a wealthy client whose power becomes both a lifeline and a curse for László.

Joe Alwyn’s portrayal of Harry Lee Van Buren stands out, capturing the darker side of privilege and entitlement. His depiction of Harry’s sinister actions, including a betrayal that profoundly impacts László, underscores the power imbalances central to the story.

Other notable performances include Stacy Martin as Maggie Van Buren, Harry’s twin sister, and Isaach de Bankolé as Gordon, László’s troubled friend.

Originally announced in 2020, The Brutalist faced multiple delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic, family tragedies, and other challenges. Filming eventually began in Budapest in March 2023, with additional scenes shot in Carrara, Tuscany.

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The Brutalist is currently playing in theaters.