Podcast Summary: All Of It – Episode: 'The Brutalist' Cinematographer Lal Crowley
Host: Alison Stewart
Release Date: February 28, 2025

All Of It, hosted by Alison Stewart on WNYC, delves deep into the intricacies of culture and the creative minds that shape it. In this episode, part of the Big Picture series, Alison interviews Lal Crowley, the Oscar-nominated cinematographer behind the acclaimed film "The Brutalist." The conversation explores Crowley's innovative use of vintage technology, his collaborative process with director Brady Courbet, and the artistic challenges faced during the film's production.

Introduction to "The Brutalist"

Alison Stewart sets the stage by highlighting the film's ambitious narrative and its technical prowess. "The Brutalist," which follows Hungarian architect Laszlo Toth through his tumultuous career, stands out not only for its expansive storytelling but also for its unique cinematographic approach. The film has garnered 10 Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture and Best Cinematography for Lal Crowley.

Collaborations and Creative Synergy

Crowley's collaboration with director Brady Courbet is a cornerstone of the film's success. Reflecting on their partnership, Crowley states:

"He's incredibly assured, but also very pragmatic... he's a fantastic collaborator to work with. It's a real honor." (03:04)

This mutual respect and understanding have allowed them to push creative boundaries, particularly in their choice to utilize VistaVision, a film technology from the 1950s revived for this project.

Embracing VistaVision

A significant portion of the discussion centers on the decision to shoot "The Brutalist" using VistaVision. Crowley elaborates on the creative freedoms this technology afforded:

"VistaVision was not an affectation or a gimmick, that it really earned its place with the Brutalist." (05:45)

Unlike modern digital formats, VistaVision offers a horizontal shooting format akin to still photography, providing a larger negative area and a wider field of view. This was pivotal in capturing the sprawling architectural landscapes central to the film's narrative.

Nick Emerson, the film editor, echoes the enthusiasm for VistaVision:

"If you have this wider field of view, it meant that you weren't forced onto a wider angle lens... So you can photograph it without distorting it." (05:50)

This technology enabled the team to authentically portray the 1950s setting without compromising the integrity of the architectural designs.

Artistic Techniques and Lighting

Crowley emphasizes the importance of lighting in storytelling, particularly in "The Brutalist." He shares insights into their meticulous approach:

"Light within this film is incredibly important... it's about sort of being devoid of light and then sort of reaching for the light." (07:30)

Collaborating closely with production designer Judy Becker, Crowley ensured that the lighting complemented the austere brutalist architecture, enhancing the emotional depth of Laszlo Toth's character.

Overcoming Production Challenges

One of the standout moments discussed is the filming of a pivotal scene where characters traverse a fading light landscape. Crowley recounts the logistical hurdles:

"We managed to achieve it in that time. And it was extraordinary. It was a very exhilarating but stressful scene to shoot." (12:53)

The team had to synchronize their shots precisely within a narrow window of natural light, relying on the expertise of their Steadicam operator and the dedication of the cast to deliver a seamless performance.

Adrien Brody’s Magnetic Performance

A highlight of the conversation is Crowley's admiration for Adrien Brody's portrayal of Laszlo Toth:

"He just has this arresting quality, magnetic quality... there's this real sense through his expression of what this character has been through." (15:01)

Brody's nuanced performance, combined with Crowley's lighting techniques, brings a palpable depth to the character, making Laszlo's journey both compelling and relatable.

The Film's Critical and Commercial Success

Reflecting on the film's reception, Crowley expresses his pride and hopes for its lasting impact:

"I really firmly hope that this film will be also some inspiration to other filmmakers that want to shoot on film... the reception has been incredible." (16:52)

"The Brutalist" not only achieved critical acclaim but also resonated with audiences, becoming a cultural touchstone that champions the continued use of traditional film techniques in modern cinema.

Conclusion

Alison Stewart wraps up the interview by commending Crowley's exceptional work, underscoring his nomination for Best Cinematography. The episode transitions to the next segment, promising insights into film editing with Nick Emerson's upcoming discussion on Conclave.

This episode of All Of It offers a profound exploration of cinematographic artistry, showcasing how Lal Crowley's dedication to his craft and innovative techniques have elevated "The Brutalist" to a standout film in contemporary cinema.