During the filming of his latest project, director Joachim Trier has found a personal benefit from working at home—allowing him the chance to share breakfast with his daughters and read them stories at bedtime. This intimate connection shapes his cinematic perspective, as he navigates the emotional landscape of his characters, particularly those like Gustav, the lead in his upcoming film, who exhibits complex, sometimes disturbing behaviors toward family.
Trier’s process is defined by a desire to break free from conventional archetypes that often dominate depictions of father figures. As fellow filmmaker Helle remarks, Trier is “endlessly fascinated” by human psychology, striving to understand the motivations behind people’s actions—a theme that recurs throughout his work and in his conversations with friends and family.
The tall, slim director possesses an approachable demeanor, characterized by his enthusiasm and emotional expressiveness on set. His looks, with blue eyes behind tortoiseshell glasses, suggest a teaching persona, and his physicality, marked by buoyant energy, has remained even after a serious skiing accident in 2019 that almost resulted in the amputation of his foot. His passion extends to his collaboration with cinematographer Kasper Tuxen, who shares Trier’s sensitivity and emotional engagement with the actors, leading to unique filmmaking challenges, like managing the condensation on Tuxen’s viewfinder during particularly poignant scenes.
Trier’s close relationship with American director Mike Mills, known for his work in “Beginners” and “20th Century Women,” has fostered a mutual exchange of ideas and creative strategies. Both share a sincere approach to storytelling, often reflecting on the implications of masculinity in the film industry. Mills refers to their experiences of working in an environment historically populated by difficult personalities, and both directors grapple with how to navigate such challenges while maintaining their authenticity and compassion.
As Trier helms this intricate project, he approaches leadership with a focus on encouragement rather than traditional authoritarian methods. According to Trier, success often lies in nurturing the creative energy of his team, fostering an environment in which collaboration thrives even in the midst of the chaos that filmmaking can bring.
On the set of “Sentimental Value”—which I visited last October—Trier and his team recreated various periods within a house that plays a central role in the film. The meticulous attention to detail was evident as they transported viewers through time, depicting the dynamics of a family haunted by its past. The narrative weaves elements of history and personal trauma, reflecting tricky themes like resistance during Norway’s Nazi occupation, with characters that embody the tensions typical in familial relationships.
Trier’s dedication to portraying complex emotional truths provides hope for audiences seeking relatable, authentic storytelling. The director’s focus on tender interactions and nuanced character development promises to breathe life into his characters and offer reflections on the bridges that connect generations across time and experience.