While the film has garnered widespread acclaim for its direction, performances, and cinematography, it is equally a celebration of the immense talent and dedication of the Hungarian film industry.

A Budapest-Based Production

Shot over 34 days between March 16 and May 5, 2023, The Brutalist utilized Budapest as a primary filming location, alongside Carrara, Italy.

The Hungarian capital once again demonstrated its versatility as a cinematic backdrop, offering both historical authenticity and cutting-edge filmmaking infrastructure. The film’s deep Hungarian involvement is evident in its extensive crew list, with 73 Hungarian professionals contributing across multiple departments.
 

Key Hungarian Contributions to Production

From production management to post-production, Hungarian talent was integral to shaping the film’s visual and narrative impact.
 

• Production Management: The expertise of Annamária Ligosztájeva (Line Producer), Viktória Petrányi (Co-Producer), Marianna Tusják (Assistant Production Manager), and Gábor Téni (Production Manager) ensured a seamless shoot, overcoming logistical challenges to bring The Brutalist to life.

• Editing & Post-Production: The film’s meticulous editing process was overseen by Dávid Jancsó (Editor), Éva Haraszin (Post-Production Coordinator – Hungarian Filmlab), and Máté Ternyik (Colorist), among others.

• Casting: The Hungarian casting team, led by Kristina Erdely, Erik Gyercán, Veronika Gál, and Beatrix Nemesházi, was responsible for assembling a diverse and talented cast to match the film’s ambitious storytelling.

• Art Department: The team, including Csenge Jóvári, Csaba Lodi, and Virág Tyekvicska, crafted visually stunning set designs that enhanced the film’s authenticity and historical depth.

• Sound and Special Effects: Contributions from Botond Csizmadia (Sound Mixer), Áron Havasi (Boom Operator), and Endre Korda (Special Effects Supervisor) played a crucial role in delivering immersive auditory and visual experiences.

• Stunts and Action Sequences: Led by Gáspár Szabó (Stunt Coordinator), Hungary’s stunt professionals ensured the film’s action sequences were executed with precision and intensity.

• Camera and Electrical Department: Hungarian specialists such as Gergely Csepregi (First Assistant Camera), Attila Pfeffer (Steadicam Operator), and András Pozsár (Dolly Grip) contributed to the film’s breathtaking cinematography, which won a BAFTA for Best Cinematography.

For full list of cast and crew, visit The Brutalist imdb page…
 

A Rare Technical Feat: Shot Entirely in VistaVision

One of the most striking technical aspects of The Brutalist is its use of VistaVision, a widescreen format that runs 35mm film horizontally to maximize resolution and image quality. The film was later released on 70mm prints, making it the first American production in 61 years to be entirely shot in this historic format.

Director Brady Corbet’s decision to embrace this technology paid homage to the 1950s era portrayed in the film, mirroring the cinematic techniques of that period – as Screener Club reports.

Hungary’s Ever-Growing Presence in Hollywood Productions

The Brutalist is yet another example of Hungary’s significant role in major international productions. The country’s world-class studios, skilled workforce, and rich historical settings continue to attract prestigious projects, reinforcing Budapest’s reputation as a prime filmmaking hub.

With its BAFTA-winning success and technical achievements, The Brutalist is not just a milestone for director Brady Corbet and its star-studded cast but also a proud moment for the Hungarian film industry.

 

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