The cast and crew of “Sentimental Value” appeared fatigued but in high spirits during their news conference at the Cannes Film Festival on Wednesday. Co-writer Eskil Vogt noted the weariness in his voice, attributing it to a well-received film and a celebratory party the previous night.
Actor Stellan Skarsgard also acknowledged his hoarse voice, explaining he had attended the same event. The late-night gathering was filled with attendees celebrating what has been identified as the festival's biggest hit so far.
“Sentimental Value” garnered the most significant standing ovation at Cannes, positioning it as a strong contender for the Palme d’Or. If it wins, it would mark the sixth consecutive Palme d’Or for distributor Neon, following their previous successes with films such as “Parasite” and “Titane.” Industry insiders believe that “Sentimental Value” is in competition with the Iranian drama “It Was Just an Accident” and the Brazilian film “The Secret Agent,” both of which Neon acquired after their premieres this week.
Director Joachim Trier, who has previously been nominated for the top prize, reunites with co-writer Vogt for this film. “Sentimental Value” tells the story of Nora, a Norwegian stage actress who confronts her estranged father, Gustav (Skarsgard), following her mother’s funeral. Gustav, who had neglected his family for his career, attempts to reconnect with Nora by writing a new film about their family, hoping she will star in it. When she refuses, he casts an American actress, Elle Fanning, instead, reigniting long-standing tensions between them.
Trier expressed his initial hesitance in making the film, referencing his and Vogt’s punk background and their desire to avoid creating overly sentimental movies. However, he emphasized that the film is heartfelt, stating, “Tenderness is the new punk for me,” and calling for a sense of reconciliation in a polarized world.
The punk theme was echoed by singer Charli XCX during her Coachella performance, where she acknowledged Trier’s influence by displaying a title card that read “Joachim Trier Summer.” Fanning later sported a T-shirt with the same phrase at the news conference, prompting Trier to express his enthusiasm and humorously note his busy schedule had left him unfamiliar with what a “Joachim Trier Summer” entails.