Full Breakdown
Brady Corbet Explores American Mysticism in Upcoming Film
4/16/2026, 9:50:46 PM
New Project Announcement at Storyhouse Festival
Brady Corbet, acclaimed director of the Oscar-winning film *The Brutalist*, recently revealed details about his next feature film during the Storyhouse Screenwriting Festival in Dublin. Corbet's upcoming project will delve into themes of American mysticism and the history of the occult in the United States. He has been researching various cultist belief systems and has collaborated with Mitch Horowitz, an American occult historian, to enrich the narrative.
Corbet's latest script is notably ambitious, spanning 200 pages, which suggests a lengthy runtime similar to *The Brutalist*, which was 3 hours and 35 minutes long. He expressed enthusiasm about the extended shooting schedule of 50 days, a significant increase from the shorter timelines of his previous films, which included *Vox Lux* and *The Childhood of a Leader*, each shot in 22 and 24 days respectively.
Insights on Filmmaking Approach
During the festival, Corbet discussed his filmmaking process, emphasizing the constraints of time on creative freedom. He noted, “I’ve always been a little limited because of how short the shoots are,” indicating that while he encourages input from actors, the tight schedules often restrict improvisation. He aims to foster a collaborative environment, stating, “I usually try to have a conversation with everyone in as loving a way as possible.”
Reflections on the Film Industry
Corbet also shared his perspective on the current state of filmmaking, suggesting that the industry has become less daring in recent years. He attributed this trend to the financial crisis of 2008 and the consolidation of power within streaming platforms, which he believes has led to a decrease in the production of innovative films. However, he expressed optimism about a potential shift back towards more radical cinema, noting, “I actually do think the pendulum is swinging the other way already.”
Criticism of Current Trends
Corbet's critique of the film landscape highlights a perceived decline in the quality of films over the past 15 to 20 years. He remarked, “We have been living during a moment in time where there is less great stuff. And that is systemic.” He referenced *The English Patient* as an example of a film that was both popular and artistically significant, contrasting it with contemporary offerings.
Conclusion and Future Outlook
As Corbet prepares for the production of his new film, he remains committed to exploring complex themes through his work. He plans to report back on the progress of the film in the coming months, indicating that audiences can expect a project that continues to challenge conventional storytelling in cinema.
Corbet's exploration of American mysticism and the occult promises to be a significant addition to his body of work, reflecting both his artistic vision and the evolving landscape of the film industry.
