The Brutalist Play: Duration of Acts and Intermission Explained



In a groundbreaking move in the realm of cinema, Brady Corbet’s *The Brutalist* has taken the world by storm with its bold approach to storytelling and exceptional artistry.

This 2024 period drama has been lauded for its evocative performance by Adrien Brody, compelling cinematography, and an unforgettable score. While its exceptional achievements have positioned the film as a likely Oscar contender in multiple categories, one notable talking point is its controversial runtime of over three and a half hours.

Divided into two acts, separated by an intermission, *The Brutalist* challenges traditional movie-going experiences, demanding both patience and a deep connection with its audience.

Let’s explore the success, structure, and audacity of this widely celebrated film.

The Triumph of *The Brutalist* in Modern Cinema

With an exceptional Rotten Tomatoes score of 97% following its release at the end of 2024, *The Brutalist* has quickly cemented its place as one of the most critically acclaimed films of the year.

Critics and audiences alike have praised its ability to blend thematic depth with visual storytelling, setting it apart in a crowded field of period dramas.

From its breathtaking cinematography to its hauntingly beautiful score, each element of the film has been meticulously crafted to elevate the narrative.

The film builds on its period setting, creating a world that feels immersive, layered, and emotionally resonant.

Adrien Brody’s portrayal of László Tóth has also drawn particular acclaim, earning him an Oscar nomination for a performance that perfectly captures the nuanced struggles of his character.

A Major Step Forward for Brady Corbet

Known for his distinctive storytelling style, Brady Corbet pushes boundaries with *The Brutalist’s* unusual structure and immersive runtime.

While the structure of a long-form movie divided into acts is not immediately common in today’s cinematic landscape, it signals a step back to the bold experimentation found in mid-20th-century filmmaking.

This daring move has proven successful, gaining admiration from critics for the emotional and thematic weight it brings to the narrative.

A Runtime That Challenges Expectations

At three and a half hours, *The Brutalist* is the longest major release of 2024, sparking conversations among film enthusiasts about the challenges and rewards of extended runtimes.

The film’s ability to sustain its tension and captivate audiences for such a prolonged duration is a testament to the strength of its storytelling.

Breaking up this marathon runtime is a thoughtfully inserted intermission, a vintage choice not often seen in contemporary movies but one that perfectly complements the film’s structure.

This intermission splits the movie into two acts:

• Part 1: The Enigma of Arrival – The foundational act of the story, setting the stage and establishing the characters’ complex relationships.
• Part 2: The Hard Core of Beauty – A visceral and emotionally intense continuation, diving deeper into the core themes and challenges faced by the characters.

An epilogue provides a reflective conclusion to the film, tying up loose ends while leaving a lasting emotional impact.

When opening previews and the intermission are factored in, the total experience spans nearly four hours.

Why the Runtime Works for *The Brutalist*

Rather than feeling unwieldy or excessive, the length of *The Brutalist* is justified by its pacing and depth.

Every scene serves a purpose, whether to build tension, enhance character arcs, or develop the film’s overarching themes.

The two-act structure also allows viewers to absorb the heavy narrative in digestible portions, ensuring the runtime doesn’t detract from the film’s impact.

In an era where attention spans are often stretched thin, *The Brutalist* dares to slow down, offering a cinematic experience that is as much about reflection as it is about storytelling.

This commitment to storytelling over brevity highlights how Corbet prioritizes creative vision over conventional norms.

Award Season Front-Runner

With *The Brutalist* earning Oscar nominations for both *Best Picture* and Adrien Brody’s masterful performance, it’s clear the film has resonated strongly with industry professionals.

The Academy tends to favor movies that push creative boundaries, and this film’s unique structure, breathtaking performances, and ambitious scale make it a strong contender in an already competitive award season.

The Impact of Adrien Brody’s Performance

Adrien Brody’s portrayal of László Tóth has been universally lauded as one of his most powerful performances to date.

Through a blend of subtlety and intensity, Brody captures the emotional complexity of his character, immersing viewers in his struggles and triumphs.

His dedication to the role serves as a cornerstone for the film’s success, bringing a rare depth to the narrative that elevates *The Brutalist* to a work of art.

Many critics have noted that Brody’s performance is not just Oscar-worthy—it’s one for the history books, a career-defining moment in an already illustrious body of work.

The Brutalist: A New Standard for Period Dramas?

As *The Brutalist* continues to earn praise from audiences and critics alike, it sets a new benchmark for what period dramas can achieve.

Its willingness to take risks—from its sprawling runtime to its unconventional structure—demonstrates the importance of creative courage in modern filmmaking.

In an industry dominated by reboots and formulaic storytelling, the success of *The Brutalist* is a reminder that audiences crave bold, original narratives that challenge and inspire.

What Can Architecture and Engineering Professionals Learn?

*The Brutalist* doesn’t just tell a story—it constructs a world.

For architecture and engineering professionals, the film serves as a masterclass in how structure, design, and emotion interweave.

The meticulous attention to detail in the film’s visuals mirrors the thoughtful approach architects and engineers must take to design spaces that not only function but inspire.

From the narrative’s multilayered complexity to the visual symbolism embedded in every scene, there’s much to learn about how art and craftsmanship come together to create something timeless.

Conclusion: The Movie That Redefines Storytelling

Brady Corbet’s *The Brutalist* is more than a film—it’s an experience that leaves a lasting impression on anyone who watches it.

From its bold runtime to its innovative structure, it challenges traditional norms and redefines what cinema can accomplish.

Backed by a stellar performance from Adrien Brody and a team of talented creatives, the movie raises the bar for period dramas and storytelling at large.

Whether or not it takes home the Oscar gold, *The Brutalist* has already solidified its place as a modern masterpiece, proving that innovation and ambition remain at the heart of great art.

 
Here is the source article for this story: How Long Are The Brutalist’s Two Acts And Intermission?