Joachim Trier’s ‘Sentimental Value’ Explores Family Dynamics

Joachim Trier’s latest film, Sentimental Value, navigates the complex terrain of family relationships through a poignant lens. Following his acclaimed work on The Worst Person in the World (2021), Trier presents a narrative that intertwines personal struggles with artistic ambition. The film stars Renate Reinsve as Nora, a troubled theater actress, and Stellan Skarsgård as her estranged father, Gustav Borg, a filmmaker facing his own demons.

The story unfolds against the backdrop of the Borg family home, a villa steeped in history since 1918. Following the death of Nora’s mother, Gustav returns to manage the sale of the house and confront their fractured relationship. After years of silence, he wishes to reconcile and has written a new script for Nora to star in, inspired by his mother’s suicide in the same home. Nora, however, is reluctant to engage with her father’s intentions.

At the Deauville Film Festival, where one of Gustav’s earlier films is screened, he forms an unexpected friendship with American actress Elle Fanning, who becomes interested in the role written for Nora. This twist sets the stage for a narrative rich in themes of identity, legacy, and the interplay between life and art. Trier describes Gustav as a director who excels in understanding others through his art but struggles with his personal relationships.

Trier’s inspiration for the film was drawn from his own life experiences, particularly the sale of his grandparents’ house. “I realized all of the 20th century had happened in that house,” he reflects, gesturing towards the impact of familial history on artistic expression. The film’s production team faced challenges in finding the right setting, but ultimately secured the original house used in his previous film, Oslo, August 31st (2011).

The film’s visual narrative required meticulous attention to detail. Production designer Jørgen Stangebye Larsen researched historical references to ensure authenticity. This involved recreating period interiors and utilizing advanced technology to capture the evolution of the home over decades. Cinematographer Kasper Tuxen opted for varying film stocks to reflect different eras, creating a dynamic visual experience that enhances the storytelling.

Skarsgård, who identifies with his character’s struggles, notes that the film resonates personally. He acknowledges the tension between professional dedication and familial responsibilities, a theme echoed throughout the film. Despite facing health challenges himself, he emphasizes his commitment to being a present father, contrasting his character’s shortcomings.

As the narrative unfolds, Trier and co-writer Eskil Vogt sought to balance the film’s emotional weight with moments of levity, incorporating humor amid the melodrama. One scene showcases Nora’s stage fright, adding a light-hearted touch to the emotional landscape.

The film’s emotional climax occurs during a series of mirrored script readings, where Fanning’s character discovers profound truths about herself. This moment of self-realization is contrasted with Reinsve’s portrayal of Nora, who grapples with her own vulnerabilities. The authenticity of these performances is a testament to Trier’s directorial approach, which emphasizes emotional truth over stylistic embellishments.

In the final moments of Sentimental Value, the relationship between Nora and Gustav reaches a pivotal turning point. Their silent exchange encapsulates years of unresolved tension, suggesting a tentative path toward forgiveness. “Closure doesn’t exist. There’s always scar tissue, always pain,” Skarsgård remarks, highlighting the complexity of familial relationships.

Trier’s latest film presents an intimate exploration of emotional landscapes, ultimately affirming that the journey toward understanding and connection, while fraught with challenges, holds the potential for hope. The film invites viewers to reflect on their own familial ties, making it a deeply resonant work within Trier’s evolving oeuvre.