Sentimental Value

Directed by Joachim Trier, Sentimental Value explores the fractured relationship between a filmmaker (Stellan Skarsgård’s Gustav) and his two estranged daughters (Renate Reinsve’s Nora and Inga Ibsdotter Lilleaas’ Agnes). It’s familiar subject matter that is, for the most part, employed to better-than-average (if slightly underwhelming) effect by Trier, as the picture, which runs a palpably overlong 133 minutes, has been saddled with a spare, deliberately-paced narrative that’s never quite as engrossing or enthralling as one might’ve hoped – which does, in turn, prevent the certain third-act developments from packing the emotional punch Trier has undoubtedly intended. Still, Sentimental Value contains, at its core, a trio of absolutely spellbinding central performances that effectively sustain one’s interest through the movie’s less-than-spellbinding stretches – with, especially, Reinsve’s completely compelling (and thoroughly sympathetic) work anchoring the proceedings on a recurring basis. By the time the satisfying finale rolls around, Sentimental Value has confirmed its place as a solid endeavor that probably could (and should) have been trimmed by about a half hour or so.

*** out of ****