In a historic moment for Norwegian cinema, the Sentimental Value movie won the Oscar for best international film at the 98th Academy Awards held on March 15, 2026. Directed by Joachim Trier, the film has garnered significant attention for its poignant exploration of family dynamics and relationships.
With a total of nine nominations at the Academy Awards, Sentimental Value stands out as the first Norwegian film to win the prestigious best international feature Oscar. This remarkable achievement highlights the film’s impact and the growing recognition of Norwegian cinema on the global stage.
The film premiered at the Cannes Film Festival, where it received the Grand Prix, further establishing its reputation as a critical success. It delves into the complexities of a dysfunctional family, focusing on the estrangement between a father, played by Stellan Skarsgård, and his daughters, portrayed by Renate Reinsve, Inga Ibsdotter Lilleaas, and Elle Fanning.
Joachim Trier, who directed and co-wrote the film with Eskil Vogt, expressed his gratitude during his acceptance speech, stating, “Oh my goodness. Thank you so much. I’m just a film nerd from Norway.” His heartfelt remarks resonated with the audience, emphasizing the personal nature of the film’s themes.
In his speech, Trier also quoted the renowned American writer James Baldwin, highlighting the responsibility of adults towards children: “I want to end by paraphrasing the wonderful American writer James Baldwin, who makes us remember that all adults are responsible for all children.” This sentiment underscores the film’s exploration of familial relationships and the weight of adult responsibilities.
Prior to this win, Norway had never secured an Oscar in the international feature category, making this victory particularly significant. Sentimental Value is now celebrated as the most-watched Norwegian film in theaters worldwide, further solidifying its place in cinematic history.
As the film continues to receive acclaim, reactions from audiences and critics alike have been overwhelmingly positive. Trier’s work has sparked conversations about the importance of addressing familial issues and the emotional complexities that come with them. The film’s success at the Academy Awards is a testament to its powerful storytelling and the talent behind it.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding future projects for Trier and the cast, but the success of Sentimental Value has undoubtedly set a new standard for Norwegian filmmakers and has opened doors for more international recognition.
