Joachim Trier Celebrates ‘Sentimental Value’ Surpassing $20 Million at the Box Office: A Q&A Discussion
Joachim Trier’s Sentimental Value Surpasses $20 Million at Box Office
Joachim Trier’s critically acclaimed film Sentimental Value has achieved notable international success, surpassing $20 million at the global box office. This milestone positions the film to potentially overtake Kon-Tiki as the highest-grossing Norwegian-language film in history.
As of now, Sentimental Value has grossed $21.9 million worldwide, as reported by distributors and sales agent mk2 films. The film has yet to be released in significant markets such as Italy and Japan, while Neon plans to re-release the drama in the United States on January 25.
In comparison, Kon-Tiki, directed by Espen Sandberg and Joachim Rønning, grossed $23.1 million overall, while Trier’s previous film, The Worst Person in the World, earned $13.1 million globally.
Trier’s earlier works, including Reprise, Oslo, August 31st, Louder Than Bombs, and Thelma, achieved box office totals ranging from $1.2 million to $1.5 million each.
Sentimental Value features Renate Reinsve and Inga Ibsdotter Lilleaas as sisters striving to reconnect with their estranged father, Gustav, portrayed by Stellan Skarsgård, an egotistical director attempting to revive his faltering career. Elle Fanning has a supporting role as an actress cast in Gustav’s new film.
Since its premiere at Cannes in May, where it received a 26-minute ovation and won the Grand Prix, Sentimental Value has embarked on an extensive festival journey. The film is currently in contention as Norway’s entry for the Oscars and is considered a strong candidate in other categories.
Following the Golden Globes, where Skarsgård won Best Supporting Actor, and the National Board of Review gala, where Lilleaas won Best Supporting Actress, Trier and his team will attend the European Film Awards in Berlin, where Sentimental Value is a frontrunner.
In a recent interview, Trier reflected on the film’s reception. “This one seems to be the most homogeneous in the feedback I’m getting from all the different countries and cultures,” he said, emphasizing the film’s universal themes of family and connection. Trier noted that the film resonates with diverse audiences, including teenagers on platforms like TikTok and older viewers alike.
Addressing the sibling dynamics depicted in the film, Trier drew inspiration from his own life. He has two daughters and sibling relationships with fellow storytellers, noting, “Without this being biographical, I think all siblings have this feeling.”
Trier stated, “I don’t make antagonists. I’m a humanist filmmaker,” explaining his approach to character development. He acknowledges the complexity of human relationships, even when characters exhibit challenging traits.
Trier also commented on the cultural longing for connection, reflecting on how modern communication can create illusions of proximity while fostering feelings of isolation. He expressed hope that Sentimental Value offers a counter-narrative by promoting themes of connectedness.
As Sentimental Value continues to perform well internationally, Trier acknowledged the changing landscape of the film industry and expressed gratitude for the nominations it has received thus far. He sees these accolades as opportunities for diverse voices to support cinema.
Ultimately, Trier affirmed his dedication to telling deeply personal stories. He expressed a preference for maintaining his Norwegian roots while exploring creative collaborations that allow for artistic freedom and vision. “I think what’s amazing…is that they have managed to create a path forward," he explained regarding his supportive producer team, indicating optimism for the future of filmmaking.
Stellan Skarsgård and Renate Reinsve in ‘Sentimental Value’
Kasper Tuxan/Neon/Everett Collection
Renate Reinsve and Inga Ibsdotter Lilleaas in ‘Sentimental Value’
Neon
Elle Fanning at the ‘Sentimental Value’ photocall at Cannes
Kristy Sparow/Getty Images
