The Hidden Struggles of Filmmaking: Brady Corbet Opens Up
The Grueling Reality of Film Promotion and Finances
In a candid conversation on Marc Maron’s WTF podcast on February 17, filmmaker Brady Corbet offered a rare glimpse into the often-hidden struggles of promoting a film and the financial challenges that accompany it. Corbet, who is currently generating Oscar buzz for his latest film The Brutalist, revealed that he and his partner have made "zero dollars" from their last two films. Despite his critical acclaim, including recent Golden Globe and BAFTA wins for Best Director, Corbet admitted that he and his partner have had to rely on savings from years ago to make ends meet. "It’s the first time that I’ve made any money, really, in years," he shared, referencing the three ads he recently directed to generate some income. The timing of his financial struggles has been particularly challenging, as he’s been in non-stop promotion mode for The Brutalist since its premiere at the Venice Film Festival in September 2024. With no time to take on other work, including writing gigs, Corbet described the experience as "less than ideal" but acknowledged it as an opportunity he couldn’t pass up.
The Financial Struggles Facing Filmmakers Today
Corbet’s story is far from unique. He emphasized that many filmmakers, even those with Oscar-nominated films, are struggling to make ends meet. "I’ve spoken to many filmmakers that have films that are nominated this year that can’t pay their rent," he said. This harsh reality underscores the financial precarity that often accompanies the pursuit of artistic excellence in the film industry. While audiences may assume that filmmakers with critically acclaimed projects are financially stable, the truth is that the process of creating and promoting a film often leaves creators in a financially vulnerable position. Corbet’s honesty sheds light on the unseen sacrifices that many artists make in order to bring their visions to life. For him, the past few months have been a whirlwind of press junkets, interviews, and travel, leaving him with no income and little time to focus on other projects.
The Demanding Process of Film Promotion
Promoting a film like The Brutalist is no small feat, and Corbet described the experience as "boundless." Since the film’s premiere, he has been working seven days a week, with no days off since Christmas. The demands of worldwide press tours, coupled with the intense scrutiny of awards season, can take a toll on even the most passionate filmmakers. Corbet likened the process to a "six-month interrogation," where he is constantly asked to delve into the complex themes of his film. The Brutalist, which explores some of the most pressing issues of our time, requires Corbet to be in a mentally and emotionally demanding state throughout the promotion process. Despite his success, he admitted that the experience has left him feeling drained, both physically and mentally. "You look your worst and you feel your worst," he remarked, highlighting the contrast between the glamour of Hollywood and the grueling reality of promoting a film.
Awards Season Success and the Importance of Recognition
Despite the financial and personal challenges, Corbet’s hard work has paid off in terms of recognition. The Brutalist, which stars Adrien Brody, has garnered 10 Oscar nominations, including Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Original Screenplay for Corbet. His wins at the Golden Globes and BAFTAs have solidified his status as one of the most exciting young directors working today. However, the awards season journey has been a double-edged sword. While the recognition is a testament to his talent and dedication, it has also required him to put his life on hold. Corbet’s inability to take on other projects during this time has further exacerbated his financial struggles, leaving him in a precarious position even as he celebrates his professional achievements. For many filmmakers, the validation of awards season is a bittersweet reminder of the sacrifices they make for their craft.
The Broader Implications for Filmmakers and the Film Industry
Corbet’s experiences raise important questions about the sustainability of a career in filmmaking, particularly for independent or art-house directors. While films like The Brutalist are often praised for their originality and depth, they rarely generate the kind of commercial success that would allow their creators to thrive financially. This disparity highlights a systemic issue within the film industry, where the pursuit of artistic excellence often comes at the expense of financial stability. Corbet’s story is a powerful reminder of the sacrifices that filmmakers make in order to tell the stories that matter to them. However, it also points to the need for greater support and resources for filmmakers, particularly during the grueling and costly process of promoting their work.
Conclusion: The Resilience of Filmmakers and the Power of Their Stories
Despite the challenges he has faced, Brady Corbet remains committed to his craft. His journey serves as a testament to the resilience and passion of filmmakers who continue to create meaningful work in the face of financial uncertainty. As he prepares for the 2025 Oscars, where The Brutalist will compete in multiple categories, Corbet’s story offers a humbling reminder of the human side of filmmaking. While the glamour of Hollywood often overshadow
