‘Sentimental Value’ trailer: Joachim Trier’s Cannes winner begins Oscar run

Neon has released the first trailer for Sentimental Value, the latest film from Norwegian director Joachim Trier. The project, which premiered at this year’s Cannes Film Festival to strong acclaim, is set for a limited theatrical release on November 7, with plans to expand nationwide around Thanksgiving.

Sentimental Value reunites Trier with Renate Reinsve, the star of his 2021 film The Worst Person in the World. Reinsve plays Nora, an actress estranged from her father, renowned film director Gustav Borg (Stellan Skarsgard). When Gustav decides to shoot his next film in the family’s old home, he invites Nora to take the lead role. She declines, citing their strained relationship. The part instead goes to American actress Rachel Kemp, portrayed by Elle Fanning.

The film also features Inga Ibsdotter Lilleaas as Nora’s sister Agnes, Cory Michael Smith, and Anders Danielsen Lie. At its Cannes premiere, Sentimental Value received a 15-minute standing ovation and went on to win the festival’s Grand Prix. Trier, visibly moved during the screening, reflected on the long development process. “We struggled for years to make this,” he told the crowd. “I make films for my friends… I feel you’re all my friends tonight.”

Neon has confirmed plans to campaign the film during the upcoming awards season. Trier’s previous film, The Worst Person in the World, also debuted at Cannes and earned two Academy Award nominations for Best International Feature Film and Best Original Screenplay.

With strong critical support and a timely release strategy, Sentimental Value is expected to be a contender this Oscar season.