Joachim Trier’s New Film ‘Sentimental Value’ Explores Family Trauma and Artistic Reconciliation

Acclaimed director Joachim Trier returns with a powerful new drama. His film, Sentimental Value, premiered at the Cannes Film Festival. It won the festival’s prestigious runner-up Grand Prize. The movie is now set for an awards season run.

Norway has selected it as its official entry for Best International Feature. The film stars Stellan Skarsgård and Renate Reinsve. It tells a deeply personal story of a fractured family.

Sentimental Value Marks a New Directorial Approach for Trier

Trier is known for his stylistic flair and ironic touch. His latest work, however, is strikingly direct and tender. He deliberately avoids his signature surreal moments.

The story follows a film director, Gustav Borg, played by Skarsgård. He returns to his family after his ex-wife’s death. He hopes to reconcile with his two adult daughters.

Gustav has written a new script for a comeback film. He wants his daughter Nora, a theater actress, to star in it. She refuses, leading to further tension.

The Film Delves Into Generational Trauma and Memory

The narrative explores the unspoken pain passed between generations. Trier was inspired by his own family history. He reflected on the trauma his grandfather endured during World War II.

He questioned how such history affects future generations. The family home itself acts as a silent witness to this pain. It holds decades of memories within its walls.

According to industry reports, the performances are intensely powerful. Reinsve delivers another captivating role. Newcomer Inga Ibsdotter Lilleaas is a revelation as her sister.

Trier shot the movie on 35mm film. The visual style is clear and saturated, matching the emotional honesty. The soundtrack blends soul folk with classic artists like New Order.

The film presents a bold argument for art’s power to express the inexpressible, making Sentimental Value a profound cinematic experience.

Thought you’d like to know

What is Joachim Trier’s new film about?

*Sentimental Value* is a family drama. It follows a director who tries to reconnect with his daughters after a tragedy. He wants one daughter to star in his personal new film project.

Who stars in the new Joachim Trier movie?

Stellan Skarsgård plays the lead role of Gustav Borg. Renate Reinsve plays his daughter, Nora. Elle Fanning also stars as an American actress.

Where did Sentimental Value premiere?

The film had its world premiere at the Cannes Film Festival. It was a critical success there. It won the festival’s Grand Prize, the second-highest honor.

Is the film Norway’s Oscar entry?

Yes, Norway selected *Sentimental Value* as its official submission. It will compete for the Best International Feature Film award at the upcoming Oscars.

How is this film different from Trier’s previous work?

Trier described it as more direct and tender. He moved away from the irony and surreal moments seen in *The Worst Person in the World* and *Thelma*.

Trusted Sources: The Hollywood Reporter, Variety, Reuters