The Brutalist’ has captured audiences with its dramatic narrative and stunning visuals, leaving many wondering where the movie’s incredible scenes were brought to life. The film, which delves into the life of a fictional architect, is not only a visual treat but a testament to ambitious filmmaking.
Blending the past with grand cinematic scope, ‘The Brutalist’ uses its locations as a character in the story. From bustling cityscapes to tranquil estates, each setting adds depth to the narrative. But while the film takes place in America, behind the scenes tells another story, one that takes us across the globe.
Filming Grounds in Hungary
In ‘The Brutalist,’ most scenes unfold within the United States; however, the magic mostly occurred across the Atlantic in Hungary. Budapest, with its sprawling sound stages and rich architectural history, brought the film to life. This location offers both cutting-edge facilities and essential tax benefits, making it an ideal spot for filmmakers.
Production designer Judy Becker revealed that Eastern Europe was not just a convenient choice but a necessity. As she shared with Elle Decor, “You get a lot more for your money in Eastern Europe. It’s the only place the movie could have been done.” This affirmation highlighted the region’s importance in replicating 1950s America.
The filmmakers spent three months scouting Budapest, emphasizing its versatile landscapes. One standout location was Andrassy Castle, which doubled as a Pennsylvania mansion. Despite its European roots, it seamlessly captured the essence of an American estate.
Interestingly, the Mahart Gabonatarhaz Kft warehouse on Csepel Island provided a gritty, industrial backdrop that fit the narrative perfectly. This grain store, reminiscent of old Philadelphia factories, played a pivotal role in creating authentic scenes.
Constructing the Van Buren Institute
Central to the plot is the Van Buren Institute, an architectural marvel crafted by the film’s protagonist. Its construction was a unique challenge, requiring a blend of models and real-world inspirations.
Judy Becker, the mastermind behind the set design, ingeniously combined Brutalist architecture with historical elements. Her approach created a narrative depth that resonated with audiences.
The Jozsef Gruber Water Reservoir in Budapest was a pivotal real-world influence. With its futuristic columns, it added an authentic touch, reflecting Toth’s architectural vision. This meticulous combination of real and fabricated elements painted a poignant picture of ambition and resilience.
Exploring Italian Marble Quarries
Contrasting the urban settings, the film also ventured into the serene landscapes of Tuscany, featuring the famed Carrara marble quarries. These scenes added a layer of elegance and timelessness.
The team faced logistical challenges when filming in the active Bettogli and Bombarda quarries. Cinematographer Lol Crawley described it as “a dangerous environment.” However, the rewards of shooting in such an iconic location far outweighed the risks.
Natural light played a crucial role in capturing the quarry’s raw beauty. The unexpected appearance of thick fog during shooting enhanced the visual drama, turning a challenge into a breathtaking advantage.
While on location in Carrara, the crew also captured spontaneous moments along the Marble Route. These scenes added authenticity, connecting the narrative with Italy’s storied history.
The Venice Architecture Biennale
‘The Brutalist’ concludes with an epilogue at the Venice Architecture Biennale. Here, the film seamlessly blends fiction with reality.
Director Brady Corbet masterfully integrated footage from the actual 1980 Biennale, merging past events with the movie’s timeline. This choice brought a layer of authenticity to Toth’s story.
Utilizing Betamax footage for these scenes further rooted the fictional narrative in reality. This technique offered viewers a glimpse into the past, echoing the film’s theme of blending history with art.
These epilogue scenes not only showcase Toth’s achievements but also celebrate architecture’s evolving role in society.
The Heart of Andrassy Castle
An integral location for the film was Andrassy Castle, located just outside Budapest. This opulent mansion, with its 50-room grandeur, played a key role in depicting the Van Buren estate.
Built in 1894, the castle’s dramatic interior, featuring a double staircase and a glass-walled winter garden, added depth to the film’s aesthetic. It stood as a symbol of wealth and power, mirroring the narrative’s themes.
The castle’s historical elegance made it an ideal choice for capturing the grandeur of an American tycoon’s home. Its labyrinth of rooms offered endless opportunities for creative storytelling.
Budapest’s Industrial Backdrop
Budapest’s industrial quarters brought the film’s production alive, offering a glimpse into 1950s America. The choice of locations added grit and authenticity to the storyline.
A standout scene was filmed at the Mahart Gabonatárház Kft grain store on Csepel Island. Its authentic depiction of a bygone industrial era was crucial for setting the film’s tone.
The production’s access to such unique spaces elevated the narrative, allowing for a seamless blend of past and present. This helped maintain the film’s thematic focus on art versus commerce.
Bringing Fiction to Life
The Brutalist’ is a testament to the power of blending fiction with reality. From Hungarian castles to Italian quarries, every location choice was deliberate and thoughtful.
Director Corbet’s vision was clear: to craft a film where every scene resonates with the story’s core themes. His use of mixed filming techniques enhanced the narrative’s depth.
Locations weren’t just backdrops; they were essential in bringing Toth’s journey to life. This dedication to authenticity allowed audiences to immerse fully in the film’s world.
Authentic Italian Experiences
While in Italy, the film crew also captured everyday life in Carrara, including the charm of the Antica Drogheria Riacci. Such details enriched the narrative, offering insights into the local culture.
Natural light accentuated the region’s beauty, turning ordinary scenes into cinematic masterpieces. The decision to shoot in such an iconic place was both challenging and rewarding.
The blend of planned and spontaneous filming brought a unique texture to the movie. This approach connected audiences with the story on a personal level.
The Art of Architectural Storytelling
The closing scenes of ‘The Brutalist,’ set during the Venice Architecture Biennale, underscore the narrative’s architectural focus. These moments reflect the protagonist’s journey and achievements.
Director Corbet’s innovative use of archival footage interlinks fact with fiction, deepening the film’s narrative. This approach highlighted architecture’s enduring influence on society.
By intertwining these elements, ‘The Brutalist’ offers a tribute to creativity, ambition, and resilience. The film’s dedication to combining visual storytelling with historical context sets it apart in modern cinema.
‘The Brutalist’ captivates with its rich storytelling and stunning locations. It transforms fiction into an immersive experience. The thoughtful selection of filming sites allowed the film to paint a vivid picture of an era gone by, while still resonating with today’s audiences.
