Need other perspectives about this scene in The Brutalist
Watched it a few hours ago, very impressive film, one that stays with you. One particular scene confused me, and as the narrative progressed, my (mis?)interpretation of it was becoming increasingly jarring, so I want to hear other people's thoughts.
When Laszlo is finally reunited with Erzsebet, after having dinner with the Van Burens, am I completely off for seeing that bed scene as her outright sexually assaulting him? I mean, he clearly states he does not feel like getting physical with her, and she starts giving him a handjob within seconds, throughout which he cries (also because of what she's saying ofc).
Is this what we're supposed to get out of this scene? Is Corbet aware that that's what this scene depicts? Parts of me thinks so, because you could argue it foreshadows him later getting raped, but a bigger part of me doubts it because it does not align with Erzsebet’s behaviour for the rest of the film, especially that final confrontation with Van Buren. Laszlo and her are both depicted as victims of the system, yet this scene implies he's a victim of both the Van Buren (the Americans) and his wife (his people) ? I'm confused.
Did I miss something here ? Curious to read your takes