Academy Awards 2025: Will The Brutalist Claim Best Cinematography?

Brady Corbet’s The Brutalist has garnered significant attention this awards season, accumulating accolades and nominations, including ten nods at the 97th Academy Awards. Among these is a nomination for Best Cinematography, recognizing Lol Crawley’s stunning visuals. But in a field of strong contenders, can The Brutalist secure the coveted golden statuette?

Crawley’s Cinematography in The Brutalist

The Brutalist tells the harrowing story of László Tóth, a Hungarian-Jewish architect and Holocaust survivor, as he navigates the complexities of post-war America. Crawley’s cinematography is integral to the film’s emotional power, capturing both the stark realities of László’s struggles and the ephemeral beauty he finds within them. From the grim, claustrophobic spaces of László’s early life in America to the expansive, almost ethereal landscapes surrounding the Van Buren project, Crawley’s lens paints a visceral tapestry of light and shadow. His work masterfully reflects László’s internal landscape, mirroring the character’s journey from despair to hope and back again.

The camera lingers on Brody’s expressive face, capturing the subtle nuances of his performance, while also showcasing the grand scale of László’s architectural vision. The stark contrast between light and shadow, reminiscent of classic film noir, further emphasizes the moral ambiguities and internal conflicts that plague László.

Will The Brutalist take home the award for Best Cinematography? The odds over at 22bet21.com are fairly high, listed at 1.5/1 or 66.70%.

Which Other Films Have Been Nominated?

The Brutalist faces stiff competition in the Best Cinematography category. Greig Fraser, nominated for Dune: Part Two, is a previous Oscar winner for his work on Dune (2021), and his breathtaking visuals for the sequel are equally impressive. Paul Guilhaume’s vibrant and dynamic camerawork in Emilia Pérez presents a striking contrast to the more subdued tones of The Brutalist. Ed Lachman, a two-time Oscar nominee, brings his distinctive style to Maria, while Jarin Blaschke, known for his atmospheric work in Robert Eggers’ films, is nominated for his chilling visuals in Nosferatu. Each nominee brings a unique visual language to their respective films, making this a particularly competitive category.

The Case for The Brutalist

Crawley’s cinematography in The Brutalist is more than just aesthetically pleasing; it functions as a visual metaphor for László’s trauma and his struggle to rebuild his life. The brutalist architecture itself, with its stark lines and imposing concrete structures, becomes a character in the film, reflecting László’s own internal fortifications. The camera often frames László against these imposing backdrops, emphasizing his vulnerability and the weight of his past. Crawley’s use of natural light and shadow further enhances this sense of unease, creating a world that feels both beautiful and oppressive. The film’s final sequence, set at an architectural biennale showcasing László’s work, is a testament to Crawley’s skill. The camera glides through the exhibition, highlighting the stark beauty of László’s creations, while also revealing the profound impact of his experiences on his artistic vision. This sequence serves as a powerful culmination of László’s journey, and Crawley’s cinematography is instrumental in conveying its emotional weight.

While The Brutalist boasts stunning visuals that are deeply intertwined with the film’s narrative, it faces formidable competition from other visually striking films. The Academy’s decision will likely come down to personal preference and the overall impact of the cinematography on the film’s narrative. Crawley’s work is undoubtedly deserving of recognition, but whether it will ultimately translate into an Oscar win remains to be seen.