Joachim Trier strips cinema down to its bones – The Suffolk Journal

Joachim Trier’s 2025 film, “Sentimental Value,” has been described as a flawless discovery of familial grief and unresolved resentment, earning a nine-time Oscar nomination. The primarily Norwegian film reunites Trier with actress Renate Reinsve, following their previous collaboration on “The Worst Person In The World.”

A Family Reconnection

The film centers on sisters Nora, played by Renate Reinsve, and Agnes, portrayed by Inga Ibsdotter Lilleaas, as they reconnect with their estranged father, Gustav, played by Stellan Skarsgård, after the death of their mother. Gustav, a filmmaker, approaches Nora with a role in his new film, but when she declines, he casts American actress Rachel Kemp, played by Elle Fanning.

Did You Know? Director Bong Joon Ho, while accepting his Golden Globe in 2020 for “Parasite,” encouraged audiences to embrace films beyond language barriers by overcoming the “one-inch tall barrier of subtitles.”

Art Imitating Life

The narrative heavily focuses on the complex relationship between Gustav and Nora, both artists who struggle to communicate except through their work. Trier explores themes of generational trauma, the strength of sisterhood, and the power of language. The film’s impact is heightened by intentional lighting and the actors’ raw, vulnerable performances, suggesting a deeply lived experience.

The Weight of Language

A key element of the film is the importance of language and authenticity. When Gustav attempts to adapt his film for Rachel, translating it into English proves problematic, losing the nuances and emotional resonance inherent in the original Norwegian script. The film emphasizes that the work is meant to be in Norwegian, in Nora’s voice, to be truly communicative.

Expert Insight: Trier’s decision to maintain the film’s original language, despite potential limitations in audience reach, underscores the importance of cultural specificity and artistic integrity. This approach prioritizes the authenticity of the story and the emotional depth conveyed through language.

Layers of Trauma and Memory

Beyond the central relationship, “Sentimental Value” delves into the past, exploring Gustav’s grief over his mother’s suicide and Agnes’ discovery of her grandmother’s experiences during World War II. The film portrays trauma as a pervasive force, impacting generations and shaping individual lives. The family home itself is presented as a character, imbued with memories and the weight of the past.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is “Sentimental Value” about?

“Sentimental Value” is a Norwegian film that follows sisters Nora and Agnes as they reconnect with their estranged father, Gustav, a filmmaker, after their mother’s death. It explores themes of family, grief, and the power of art.

Who stars in “Sentimental Value”?

The film stars Renate Reinsve as Nora, Stellan Skarsgård as Gustav, Inga Ibsdotter Lilleaas as Agnes, and Elle Fanning as Rachel Kemp.

What is the significance of language in the film?

The film highlights the importance of language and authenticity, demonstrating how translation can diminish the emotional impact of a story. It emphasizes that the film is most powerful when told in its original Norwegian language.

How might a filmmaker’s personal history influence their artistic choices, and what responsibility do they have to portray those experiences authentically?