Joachim Trier’s ‘Sentimental Value’ Earns 19-Minute Ovation at Cannes

CANNES, France — Filmmaker Joachim Trier premiered his new film ‘Sentimental Value‘ at the Cannes Film Festival on Wednesday night. The screening at the Grand Théâtre Lumière was met with an impressive 19-minute standing ovation, showcasing strong audience support.

Reuniting with actress Renate Reinsve, who starred in his 2021 film ‘The Worst Person in the World,’ Trier’s latest work is a family drama featuring Stellan Skarsgård, Inga Ibsdotter Lilleaas, and Elle Fanning. The film is currently competing for the prestigious Palme d’Or.

In ‘Sentimental Value,’ Reinsve plays the role of Nora, an actress whose relationship with her estranged father, Gustav (played by Skarsgård), becomes central to the storyline. Gustav, a former renowned director, offers Nora a role in his anticipated comeback film. However, when she declines, he casts a young Hollywood star (Fanning) in her place. The film unfolds complex family dynamics against this backdrop.

While there is no official record-keeping for applause lengths at the festival, previous winners have set notable benchmarks. Guillermo del Toro‘s ‘Pan’s Labyrinth’ holds the unofficial record at 22 minutes. Nevertheless, the enthusiastic response for ‘Sentimental Value’ has positioned it as a strong contender.

Neon, a distributor that has previously secured the rights to the last five Palme d’Or winners, pre-acquired North American distribution rights to the film during last year’s festival.

In a heartfelt speech following the applause, Trier expressed his gratitude for the support, noting that many involved in the making of the film had long struggled to bring it to fruition. ‘I make films for my friends,’ he said. ‘I feel you’re all my friends tonight.’