The partnership between Eskil Vogt and Joachim Trier dazzled audiences in the critically acclaimed ‘The Worst Person in the World’ back in 2021, leading to an Oscar nomination for the duo in Best Original Screenplay. After the success, the duo reteamed up for Neon’s upcoming film ‘Sentimental Value.’ This also sees the reunion of Trier and Renate Reinsve, who plays the lead in the film, Julie. Ahead of the film’s release, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Renate Reinsve and Inga Ibsdotter Lilleaas to talk about their performances in Trier’s incredible movie. 

Trier’s previous work honed in on a single-person narrative along with those around to play small pieces in elevating his story. However, with Sentimental Value, Trier leans heavily into an ensemble piece that truly comes together quite brilliantly. The script is such a complex look at family, love, and attempting to heal old wounds. This truly might be one of the best screenplays of 2025. In the quiet moments of this film is where you find yourself wrestling with the idea of what Trier is saying. The family dynamic in this film gives plenty of self-reflection on your own life and the challenges one faces with not being seen by those who we love. 

As I sat in a puddle of tears as each act unfolded, I was blown away by this remarkable ensemble. Even Gustav (Skarsgård), who is rough around the edges, finds this subtle warm spot in your heart by the end. Reinsve, Skarsgård, Lilleaas, and Fanning truly deliver this beautiful ensemble, enriching Vogt/Trier’s incredible screenplay. I highly recommend checking this out in theaters. 

What is Sentimental Value about?

Sisters Nora and Agnes reunite with their estranged father, the charismatic Gustav, a once-renowned director who offers stage actress Nora a role in what he hopes will be his comeback film. When Nora turns it down, she soon discovers he has given her part to an eager young Hollywood star.

When does Sentimental Value release?

Sentimental Value hits theaters on November 7.

Renate Reinsve and Inga Ibsdotter Lilleaas Talk ‘Sentimental Value’

Ricky Valero: This is your third collaboration with Joachim. When you read the script for Sentimental Value, how did that stand out compared to your previous work with them?

Renate Reinsve:  Well, I think that roles are really different. Julie was more naive and in a very open world that was like free around the city, not knowing what choices to make. And that was maybe her kind of core, being very melancholic about life. This role, I knew that he wanted to challenge me a bit more with a more mature role with someone who was set in life but carried a lot of emotional weight that she didn’t really know what it was or how to process or how to communicate. They have some mirroring and some similarities, but a lot of real opposites as well. 

Valero: Inga, how did the role of Agnes come about?

Inga Ibsdotter Lilleaas:  I got a call to go to the audition, like any other project. But it was like a little special because it was Joachim, and of course, I wanted to work with him, but I didn’t really think that was going to happen. And then I got to go to several, like auditions and meetings with him, and got to know him a little. It was just great, and I felt like this is the kind of experience I will cherish for the rest of my life, whether I get the part or not. And, luckily, I did in the end. But I will cherish that auditioning process because it was very special.

Check out the full interview below