Adrien Brody Discusses His Role in 'The Brutalist' and the Rise of Antisemitism

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Acclaimed actor Adrien Brody, renowned for his Oscar-winning performance in 'The Pianist', is once again garnering Oscar buzz with his role as László Tóth in the upcoming film 'The Brutalist'. The film, which tells the harrowing story of a Jewish architect and concentration camp survivor, has resonated with Brody on a personal level due to his own Jewish ancestry.

During a recent interview in Madrid, Brody spoke about the emotional weight of his role, highlighting how it symbolizes resilience amidst rising antisemitism. He emphasized the importance of learning from history while moving forward, reflecting on the continuous struggle against oppression that has defined the experiences of many throughout history.

Brody expressed his selectivity in choosing roles, stating, “I have to feel it’s worth the commitment." This careful approach led him to reclaim the role after it was initially meant for another actor. The narrative of 'The Brutalist' resonates not only with Brody’s family history but also with current global issues, underscoring themes of displacement and survival.

Directed by Brady Corbet, 'The Brutalist' explores the complexities of identity and heritage, with Brody aiming to portray a character who embodies the struggle of survival and the complex realities faced by many displaced individuals today. The film is visually striking, shot in VistaVision, and will be released in a nearly four-hour format.

As awards season looms, Brody's performance is anticipated to rekindle discussions about the challenges faced by marginalized communities, especially in light of the current climate of growing antisemitism worldwide.

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