A Rare, Balanced Portrait of Family, But Could Be Tighter
Sentimental Value is a rare gem – a film that nails the messy, painful, and occasionally beautiful dynamics of a fractured family. Joachim Trier balances the story with a rare honesty, avoiding melodrama while still delivering emotional punches.
The performances are exceptional, particularly Renate Reinsve and Stellan Skarsgård, who bring raw, understated depth to their roles. The film’s exploration of generational trauma and the struggle for reconciliation feels authentic and earned.
That said, it’s not perfect. The pacing drags at times, and a tighter edit (maybe 20 minutes shorter) could have elevated it from great to unforgettable.
Still, it’s a deserving Oscar winner, a film that respects its audience’s intelligence and emotional investment.
7.5/10: flawed but brilliant.
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