Get ready for a film that will leave you questioning everything!
'Sentimental Value': A Heart-Wrenching Tale of Family and Art
In Joachim Trier's latest masterpiece, a powerful scene unfolds where an aging director, played by the talented Stellan Skarsgård, confronts his estranged daughters with a thought-provoking statement: "You can't write Ulysses driving to soccer practice." On the surface, it's a casual comment, but beneath lies a deeper meaning - a defense of his absence during their upbringing. And the daughters? They're not buying it.
Skarsgård, the charismatic actor known for his roles in 'Mamma Mia!', 'Chernobyl', and 'Dune', shares his take on the statement. "It's true. You cannot," he says, adding a touch of drama with, "It would be so boring. I would die."
But here's where it gets controversial...
'Sentimental Value' explores the complex dynamics between art and family. Skarsgård's character, Gustav, attempts to reconnect with his grown-up daughters, Nora (Renate Reinsve) and Agnes (Inga Ibsdotter Lilleaas). Nora, a successful theater actor, is caught off guard when Gustav offers her the lead role in a film he wrote specifically for her. When she declines, he casts an American star, Elle Fanning, who unknowingly becomes entangled in this family's long-standing discord.
The film's impact was undeniable, receiving a standing ovation at its Cannes premiere and earning nine Golden Globe nominations. It's a serious contender for next year's Oscars, and the cast and crew shared their insights during interviews spanning several weeks.
Renate Reinsve, famous for her self-searching role in 'The Worst Person in the World', won the Best Actress award at Cannes and received a Bafta nod. Trier reveals that Reinsve's talent has caught the attention of some of the biggest stars in the industry.
"She's one of a generation, an actor with translucence. You can see all her feelings; she can blush on cue," Skarsgård praises.
Reinsve and Trier's collaboration felt natural, with Trier writing Nora's character specifically for Reinsve. Lilleaas, who portrays Agnes, delivers a touching performance as the younger sister who finds contentment as a historian with her own family.
And this is the part most people miss...
Agnes, unlike Nora, whose life is colored by her father's abandonment, has found peace. Yet, when Gustav returns, she is bound by her identity as the family's pacifist. Trier admits that Lilleaas shaped Agnes' character in ways he hadn't anticipated.
"She had a grounded sincerity, and I realized that's much more interesting," Trier says.
Elle Fanning, who has been acting since she was two, shares her personal connection to the film. "You can't help but feel the ups and downs of this industry, and sometimes, the defeat. I've certainly felt that before," she confesses.
As for Gustav, the absent father and egocentric artist, Skarsgård knows the role was written with a certain type of man in mind. "It's never an insult; I don't play myself usually," he says.
Skarsgård, who has a good relationship with his eight children, many of whom followed him into the business, admits to seeing parallels between himself and Gustav.
"I realized I wasn't totally present when my kids were growing up... but I have eight kids - it's f***ing impossible!" he exclaims.
Trier's approach to filmmaking is heavily influenced by his family thinking. "He is very family-oriented; we try to end on time so people can go home," Lilleaas shares.
The key to Trier's success lies in trust and the unique way he fosters it through weeks of rehearsals. "The reason I do a lot of rehearsals is to get into the groove of trust, where actors feel comfortable taking risks," Trier explains.
Reinsve and Fanning both speak highly of Trier's ability to create a safe space. "I know I'll be taken care of as an actor, so I can be free to mess up and f*** up a scene," Reinsve says. Fanning adds, "He's right in the room with us, seeing everything."
Trier's philosophy extends to his belief in capturing something real. "You can allow yourself to go there, to see what comes up naturally. It's scary but brave," Reinsve shares.
Skarsgård echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of not relying on tools or muscle memory. "As an actor, your experience gives you tools, but they can be boring and dangerous. You need the irrationality of life," he says.
Trier often gives his actors the note, "Go back to zero," encouraging them to shed intention and trust in the moment.
And this is where it gets truly emotional...
In one scene, Agnes visits Nora's apartment, and their conversation takes an unexpected turn. Agnes, weeping, climbs onto the bed and hugs Nora, saying, "I love you." It's a moment that wasn't scripted, a testament to the trust and freedom Trier fosters.
All four actors have earned Golden Globe nominations, and Oscar nods may soon follow. For Skarsgård, it could be his first, despite a career spanning decades.
"I've done pretty well without them, but of course, it's exciting," he laughs.
'Sentimental Value' is a film that explores the complexities of family, art, and the human experience. It's a must-watch, and with its critical acclaim and powerful performances, it's sure to leave a lasting impression.
