Grab Popcorn, Have Sex or Hit the Restroom? ‘The Brutalist’ Stars Offer Creative Suggestions for How to Spend Film’s 15-Minute Intermission

As a seasoned film critic with decades of experience under my belt, I must say that this intermission business in “The Rhythm Section” is quite a novelty! It’s like taking a breather during a marathon, allowing the audience to process the emotional turmoil unfolding on screen.

For nearly several decades, American cinema-goers have been deprived of the pleasure of an intermission. However, that is all set to change with Brady Corbet’s The Brutalist, as it breaks this long-standing tradition when it premieres in theaters on Dec 20. The film is divided into two chapters, “The Enigma of Arrival” and “The Hard Core of Beauty”, and a 15-minute intermission separates them, extending the movie’s duration to approximately three hours and 35 minutes.

In a nutshell, the movie “The Brutalist” features Adrien Brody portraying László Tóth, a Jewish Hungarian architect who’s trying to start anew in America post-Holocaust. The ensemble includes Felicity Jones as Erzsébet Tóth (László’s wife), Alessandro Nivola as Attila (his cousin), Guy Pearce as the affluent Harrison Lee Van Buren Sr., Joe Alwyn as Harry Lee, and Isaach De Bankolé as László’s unconventional friend.

New opportunity begs a new question: What should the audience do with their mid-movie free time? The Hollywood Reporter asked The Brutalist’s brain trust for a little advice at the film’s recent Los Angeles premiere, and the answers may surprise you.

    Adrien Brody

    Take a brief pause to ponder or attend to personal needs, such as visiting the restroom or grabbing a sweet treat – whatever suits you best. I often use this time to sit quietly and immerse myself in the darkness, contemplating the previous chapter and allowing it to resonate before moving on to the next one. It’s a unique and captivating moment that elevates the experience, particularly in a theater setting, making each session feel like a special event.

    Felicity Jones

    You’ve got plenty of choices at hand. You could opt for a cup of tea, light up a cigarette, have a drink, or engage in conversation with the person you’re sharing this moment with. Currently, it seems that people yearn for a well-crafted tale. In today’s world oversaturated with quick, brief content, it’s surprisingly calming to immerse oneself in something engaging that holds your attention for an extended period.

    Guy Pearce

    Please step away for a moment to discuss the first half’s observations, perhaps grabbing a quick snack like more popcorn on your way. Just make sure to return before the start of the second half.

    Alessandro Nivola

    “Well, take a piss depending on the state of your prostate. The thing I like about it is that it gives you the chance to think about the movie for a little bit and settle in before the second half starts. But the sky’s the limit. If you need to go outside and do some calisthenics or a little yoga, I’m all for it.”

    Joe Alwyn

    “Go and get a stiff drink and some popcorn if you want.”

    What’s Joe Alwyn drinking these days?

    “I find a drink I like for a few months and then change it. Right now, it’s a Mezcal margarita.”

    Brady Corbet and Mona Fastvold

    CORBET “Smoke at least three cigarettes.”

    FASTVOLD “Run to the bathroom, and then get a drink.”

    CORBET “Or fuck in the bathroom.” [Laughs]

    FASTVOLD “Yes, yes! [Laughs] But I don’t know if that goes with this movie or not.”

    Isaach de Bankole

    “Talk with the neighbors and try to guess what’s going to happen next.”

    Composer Daniel Blumberg

    During the intermission, the music playing is quite extraordinary and it’s performed by pianist John Tilbury, who I collaborated with for the poignant scenes following László Tóth (Adrien Brody). This pause offers a captivating opportunity to appreciate the pianist as he jots down his composition on his stave, and you can even hear the creaking of his piano store. As the theme of Erzsébet begins to unfold, you’ll notice that Tilbury is trying to work out her melody for the film, as László’s theme gradually evolves into Erzsébet’s. I would encourage the audience to remain seated during this moment, refrain from smoking or leaving for the restroom, and simply listen to the music.

    Cinematographer Lol Crawley

    Initially, it’s likely they’ll want to pause and catch their breath. This movie is quite bold and packed with feelings, so it requires some time to fully grasp. I recommend taking a few moments to ponder the film, savor it for a bit before diving into the second half. The idea of an intermission is intriguing, so make the most of it and enjoy.

    Production Designer Judy Becker

    Avoid going to the restroom during movies as I’ve had to miss parts due to long lines twice when watching films in a theater. Let’s not repeat my mistake.

Read More

2024-12-18 20:25