“Sentimental Value” follows sisters Nora and Agnes, who navigate a complicated relationship with their estranged father after Nora is offered a role in his next film.
Many things can be said about “Sentimental Value.”
It’s tedious. It’s overstuffed. It’s even self-indulgent. It’s also unapologetically itself and undoubtedly beautiful.
“Sentimental Value” balances precious, intimate moments with the harsh realities of mental health and depression. This is one of the rare films able to capture the innate human desire to be loved. To be held. To find a home. To be told that everything is going to be OK.
Story Powered By Character
These ideas come through so cleanly because of the characters. Nora (Renate Reinsve), Agnes (Inga Ibsdotter Lilleaas) and Gustav (Stellan Skarsgård) each go on their own journeys throughout the 133-minute runtime.
Nora takes much of the focus, with a commanding performance from Reinsve. She steals every scene with layer upon layer of emotion that comes through in every word. Even her facial expressions and mannerisms alone tell a story.
Lilleaas and Skarsgård are equally impressive. Lilleaas plays a more reserved character but still delivers powerful moments of dialogue that stick. The same can be said about Skarsgård, remaining quiet yet poignant.
Another strong performance comes from Elle Fanning (Rachel Kemp). While not as prominent as the other actors, she takes a backseat while still pouring heart into the movie.
Fractured Narrative With Emotional Weight
Spending much of the runtime analyzing these characters, “Sentimental Value” offers many different storylines to connect with – whether it’s a fractured familial relationship, the feeling of loneliness or a lost sense of purpose. It’s because of this that the film is so impactful.
It’s also why it often feels overwhelming.
With an array of different storylines and characters, the film sometimes moves in too many directions at once.
The editing plays a role in this. “Sentimental Value” takes a fractured approach, constantly cutting to black with each progression. This makes several key moments more hard-hitting, while also creating occasional and frustrating gaps in the plot.
Director Joachim Trier crafts a sharp story that will play well with hardcore cinephiles. General audiences may beg to differ, however.
Not An Easy Watch… But a Rewarding One
All of this culminates in a film that isn’t necessarily an “easy” watch. Even with the themes to invest in, viewers who can’t fully relate may feel the slow-burn effect. The first act, especially, is hard to engage with before the film finds its stride.
Nonetheless, “Sentimental Value” stays persistent and hammers home its messaging over the final 30 minutes. Each character’s journey culminates in a satisfying conclusion – with the movie landing a strong emotional bookend.
Much like life itself, getting through “Sentimental Value” isn’t always fun, yet it’s worth it.
“Sentimental Value” is an emotional journey exploring both love and healing. It’s at times uncomfortable to sit with, but almost cathartic by the end.
Rating: 4.5 out of 5
