Brutalism is one of the most striking architectural styles of the 20th century, known for its imposing geometric shapes, raw materials, and an aesthetic that often divides opinions. The style, which peaked between the 1950s and 1970s, endures to this day and continues to influence various forms of art and design. In Brazil, the movement gained strength with architects such as Paulo Mendes da Rocha, João Vilanova Artigas, and Lina Bo Bardi. Their works emphasize the use of exposed concrete and an intense connection with urban space, highlighting the lasting influence of brutalism on the urban landscape and the architectural identity of Brazil. Recently, brutalism has also gained prominence on cinema screens with the film 'The Brutalist' (2025), which is competing for the Oscar for Best Picture. This production offers a cinematic approach to the movement, exploring its impactful aesthetics and visual symbolism through the story of an architect struggling to realize his artistic vision in a world that does not always understand his proposal. The term 'brutalism' comes from the French 'béton brut', meaning 'raw concrete'. It was popularized by architect Le Corbusier, one of the pioneers of the movement, and defines the essence of the style: massive structures, exposed concrete, functionality over ornamentation, and powerful visual impact. Brutalist buildings are often associated with public institutions, such as universities, libraries, and government headquarters, being common in cities like London, Boston, and São Paulo. Despite critiques of their perceived 'cold' and 'oppressive' aspect, brutalism has been revalued in recent decades by architects and design enthusiasts. After the devastation of war, many European cities needed to be quickly rebuilt, and brutalist architecture emerged as a response to this need for practicality, functionality, and speed. The choice of concrete as the predominant material was not only linked to availability and cost but also symbolized the robustness and resilience of a new era. Therefore, brutalism became an expression of an age seeking a new identity, breaking with the decorative styles of the past and often challenging traditional aesthetics. This style was adopted by both government architects and social housing projects, reflecting an attempt to provide simple and efficient solutions for a world that needed to rebuild itself in the face of that scenario. Although initially associated with an optimistic vision of the future, brutalism has also faced criticism over the years. Many people found it cold and impersonal, especially in housing projects where harsh forms and exposed concrete contributed to a sense of alienation. However, brutalism has also gained recognition for the authenticity and innovation it brought to modern architecture. Today, decades after its peak, brutalism continues to provoke discussions about its legacy and relevance. Many brutalist buildings, though controversial, are considered architectural landmarks and examples of a time when architecture sought to redefine what modernity, utility, and resilience meant. In Brazil, brutalism has solidified as one of the most expressive architectural styles, driven by great names like João Vilanova Artigas, Paulo Mendes da Rocha, and Lina Bo Bardi. These architects brought to the country iconic constructions that engage with the urban space and promote democratic architecture. The main works include the Sesc Pompeia by Lina Bo Bardi, the Faculty of Architecture and Urbanism of USP, designed by Artigas, and the Brazilian Museum of Sculpture and Ecology (MuBE), signed by Paulo Mendes da Rocha. These buildings, characterized by the use of exposed concrete and the appreciation of structure in its purest form, have become references of Brazilian brutalism and continue to be studied and admired worldwide. The film 'The Brutalist' (2025), directed by Brady Corbet and starring Adrien Brody and Felicity Jones, transposes the concept of brutalism from architecture to the cinematic language. Nominated in 10 categories at the 2025 Oscars, the feature follows the journey of a Hungarian architect who, in the 1950s, emigrates to the United States in search of creative freedom. However, as he attempts to build his masterpiece, he faces a world that resists his vision, just as many cities resisted the imposing forms of brutalism. The film's aesthetics directly engage with brutalist philosophy: the photography bets on striking contrasts, austere framing, and an expressive use of space. Concrete structures dominate the setting, intensifying the protagonist's sense of isolation and visually translating his conflicts. Brutalism, often seen as cold and impersonal, here becomes a mirror of the struggle between creation and rejection. With 'The Brutalist', awards not only celebrate a visually daring film but also recognize how cinema and architecture can intertwine to tell stories that go far beyond concrete—narratives about ambition, permanence, and the eternal tension between innovation and resistance.
