Norwegian writer and director Joachim Trier unveils his latest film, Sentimental Value, which is set to premiere in UK cinemas on December 26, 2025. Following the success of his previous work, The Worst Person in the World, this family drama explores the complex relationship between a father and his estranged daughters. The film features Stellan Skarsgård as Gustav Borg, a once-celebrated film director attempting to reconnect with his children while navigating the challenges of making his next film.
The narrative quickly reveals that Gustav is not the ideal father, a factor that influenced Trier’s decision to cast Skarsgård. In an exclusive interview with RadioTimes.com, Trier stated, “I think he kinda saved us in the writing room.” He elaborated that as the character became more complex, the need for a talented actor to portray Gustav grew stronger. “We needed a really nice person to actually play him, to create a real character of flesh and blood,” he added.
Trier’s determination to work with Skarsgård was evident, as he sought him out before the screenplay was finalized. “Stellan was top of the list of first Nordic actors, but also, in the world in that age category,” he explained. He traveled to Stockholm, where he met Skarsgård over lunch, attempting to persuade him to take on the role. “It was a sweet lunch that we had, and I kind of ended up begging him almost to play,” Trier recalled.
Skarsgård, however, felt that Trier may have overestimated the effort needed to convince him. He remarked, “Well, he didn’t have to do anything, but I didn’t tell him that.” The actor had already been drawn to the project upon hearing about it. “I knew I’d take it because I’d seen his films. The script was beautiful and remarkably light at the same time as it deals with big problems.”
On-Screen Dynamics and Character Relationships
In Sentimental Value, Skarsgård’s character grapples with strained relationships with his two daughters, Agnes and Nora, portrayed by Renate Reinsve and Inga Ibsdotter Lilleaas. Despite the tension in their on-screen interactions, the atmosphere on set was reportedly more relaxed as the cast got to know one another. Reinsve described Skarsgård as “very funny” and noted that while she was initially intimidated by him, she learned to respect him and draw from that fear in her performance.
Lilleaas echoed this sentiment, calling Skarsgård “a wonderful man” who was both “gentle and calm” while also possessing a “badass” aura. She recounted an intense first rehearsal where she had to yell at him, which helped break the ice. “I just yelled at him and then we were sort of on the same level,” she reflected on how the experience eased her initial intimidation.
The film’s premiere at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival has already generated buzz, with many anticipating it will earn several Oscar nominations. The depth of Skarsgård’s performance, combined with Trier’s adept direction, sets the stage for a compelling narrative that resonates with audiences.
As Sentimental Value makes its way to cinemas, the collaboration between Skarsgård and Trier promises a film that not only entertains but also provokes thought about familial relationships and personal redemption.
