It’s truly commendable when a film possesses the potential to offer guidance for resolving disagreements within families, encouraging forgiveness, and aiding in healing from past hurts—going beyond simple entertainment or even artistic merit. Such films aspire to become something of a cinematic blessing, providing valuable support for those seeking direction in their lives. It's perhaps an exaggeration to say this, but that’s precisely what seems to be the case with Joachim Trier’s newest film, which may well represent the high point of his career so far. When acclaimed Scandinavian filmmaker Gustav Borg (Stellan Skarsgård) unexpectedly reconnects with his two grown daughters, Nora (Renate Reinsve) and Agnes (Inga Ibsdotter Lilleaas), they are taken aback by his sudden reappearance. Years earlier, after a period of conflict and constant arguments with his wife, Gustav left abruptly, leaving her to raise the girls alone. Despite these difficult circumstances, Nora became a successful stage actress, though she struggles with loneliness, while Agnes built a more conventional life as a wife and mother. Meanwhile, Gustav established himself as a filmmaker, but hasn't worked on a new project in some time due to declining health and problems with alcohol. Now, reentering his daughters’ lives, he hopes to change that—by making a film he considers a legacy piece, an autobiographical work intended for Nora, whom he wants to cast as the lead. However, given the long-standing animosity between Nora and her father, she declines, which is a significant obstacle to his plans—until Gustav meets a young American actress, Rachel Kemp (Elle Fanning), and offers her the part. This casting decision triggers fresh emotional turmoil, involving revisiting past events and uncovering new issues concerning Gustav, his daughters, and other family members. Simultaneously, taking on the role of Gustav’s protagonist prompts Rachel to consider her place in this complicated situation, both for her career as an actress and how she fits into what is clearly a metaphorical exploration of the Borg family drama. Despite the challenges everyone faces, there's also an opportunity for healing, personal development, and a fresh beginning. The question becomes whether they can meet that challenge. Trier undertakes a rather complex storyline (occasionally a bit too involved), but the narrative boldly attempts to weave together aspects of art and life and how one might be used to address the challenges and opportunities presented by the other. While some may find the film a little lengthy, the director manages to cover considerable ground without dwelling on details or adding unnecessary elements. The well-written script prevents it from becoming overly serious through strategically placed moments of humor, including several amusing references to a familiar Scandinavian furniture store. These strengths are further enhanced by the film’s beautiful and inventive cinematography and the outstanding performances of the cast, particularly Reinsve, Skarsgård, and Fanning, all of whom deliver performances worthy of recognition. As the winner of the Grand Prize at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival and a nominee for the Palme d'Or (the festival’s highest honor), “Sentimental Value” is another remarkable achievement from this talented Norwegian filmmaker, one that echoes—and perhaps even surpasses—his highly regarded previous film, "The Worst Person in the World" ("Verdens verste menneske") (2021). Watch for this one as awards season approaches.

Source on TMDB