‘Sentimental Value’: Reflecting on Art, Redemption, and Healing

“Sentimental Value” raises the crucial question: is creating art a genuine form of seeking forgiveness? Or is it an elegant way to externalize guilt?
‘Sentimental Value’: Reflecting on Art, Redemption, and Healing
Nora (Renate Reinsve, L) and sister Agnes (Inga Ibsdotter Lilleaas), in "Sentimental Value." Nordisk Film/Mubi
Mark Jackson
Mark Jackson
Film Critic
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R | 2h 13m | Drama | 2025

Norwegian filmmaker Joachim Trier’s “Sentimental Value” is both beautiful and hard-hitting. Trier, Stellan Skarsgard, lead actress Renate Reinsve, and newcomer Inga Ibsdotter Lilleaas have made a heartrending portrait of the haunting complexity of family bonds, and the pain and catharsis of artistic creation.

Mark Jackson
Mark Jackson
Film Critic
Mark Jackson is the chief film critic for The Epoch Times, and a Rotten Tomatoes-approved critic. He earned a bachelor's degree in philosophy from Williams College, followed by a classical theater conservatory training, and has 20 years' experience as a New York professional actor. He narrated The Epoch Times audiobook "How the Specter of Communism is Ruling Our World," available on iTunes, Audible, and YouTube. Mark is cited in the book "How to be a Film Critic in Five Easy Lessons" by Christopher K. Brooks. In addition to film, he enjoys Harley-Davidsons, martial arts, rock-climbing, qigong, and human rights activism.