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An actor is forced to confront her past when her estranged father, a famous director, begins a film project that mirrors her own life and trauma.
A profoundly moving drama with comedy, set against the backdrop of the performing arts. Sentimental Value explores the dynamics of a family moving through life's trials and tribulations through their artistic expression in the performing arts. It's a fascinating grounded look at how past experiences and traumas inform art.
Free of the cynical tropes and parodies of the actor's life, Sentimental Value honestly attempts to get at the heart of the need for performance and the salvation it provides storytellers. The cast is anchored by an award-winning performance by Renate Reinsve as Nora, who experiences a whirlwind of emotions as she is faced with confronting her estranged father, Gustav, played by an excellent Stellan Skarsgård.
Helping both daughter and father navigate their attempts at reconciliation is Nora's younger sister Agnes, movingly played by Inga Ibsdotter Lilleaas. Rounding out the cast is Elle Fanning, who has the unenviable task of potentially playing a fictional version of Nora in a film being directed by Gustav.
Sentimental Value does an excellent job of showing the psychological and emotional complexities of performing artists without falling into stereotypes. It's a fresh approach by writer and director Joachim Trier, who forgoes the need to create drama for the sake of traditional storytelling. Trier allows the story to breathe, unfold, and eventually reveal itself at its own pace.
Of course, the movie isn't just a film about performers. Many viewers will relate to the complexities and real-life messiness of familial relationships, which is really at the core of Sentimental Value.
- Trier & Reinsve: This marks the second collaboration between Joachim Trier and Renate Reinsve following their success with The Worst Person in the World.
- Norwegian Roots: Though a co-production, the film maintains Trier's signature Oslo-centric storytelling style.
- Cannes Pedigree: Trier's films are staples at major festivals, emphasizing the "European character study" style you highlighted.
- Masterful lead performance by Renate Reinsve
- Grounded, honest look at familial trauma
- Avoids cynical "Hollywood" tropes
- Slow, deliberate pacing may not suit everyone
- Rarely found in traditional studio theaters
Renate Reinsve: The Worst Person in the World, Presumed Innocent
Stellan Skarsgård: Dune, Chernobyl, Good Will Hunting
Joachim Trier: Oslo, August 31st, Louder Than Bombs
Hopefully, the success of Sentimental Value can spur a new age of these type of films. It definitely deserves to sweep the acting categories at the Oscars—don't be surprised if it does.
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