‘Sentimental Value’ Triumphs At Cannes With Record-Breaking Ovation

Joachim Trier’s latest film ‘Sentimental Value’ has emerged as a frontrunner at the Cannes Film Festival 2025, earning the longest standing ovation of the year so far.

Premiering on Wednesday evening, the film received a rapturous 15-minute applause, surpassing the 11.5-minute ovation previously held by Julia Ducournau’s Alpha, as reported by Variety.

The emotional response from the Cannes audience was palpable.

Elle Fanning, who stars prominently in the film, was seen wiping away tears before embracing Trier, moved by both the audience’s reaction and the filmmaker’s achievement.

Fanning’s performance has already garnered significant praise, with the audience rising in admiration of her role and Trier’s poignant storytelling.

Sentimental Value marks a powerful reunion between Trier and Renate Reinsve, the breakout star of The Worst Person in the World.

A Poignant Family Drama

The film, a heartfelt comedy-drama, centres around two sisters, Nora and Agnes, who reconnect with their estranged father Gustav — a once-acclaimed director seeking a comeback.

When Gustav offers Nora a role in his new film and she declines, tensions rise as he casts a young Hollywood actress in her place.

What unfolds is a layered exploration of familial bonds, personal regrets, and clashing egos under the spotlight.

Speaking after the screening, Trier appeared visibly moved and thanked the audience, saying, “What’s that Buñuel quote? ‘I make films for my friends?’ I feel you’re all my friends tonight.”

He went on to acknowledge the challenges many in the team faced over the years while bringing the film to life.

The screenplay was co-written by Trier and long-time collaborator Eskil Vogt.

The film features a talented ensemble cast including Stellan Skarsgård, Inga Ibsdotter Lilleaas, and Cory Michael Smith, alongside Reinsve and Fanning.

Their performances, combined with Trier’s introspective direction, have positioned the film as a serious contender for the prestigious Palme d’Or.

The overwhelming response at Cannes has bolstered expectations for Sentimental Value as it heads into the awards segment of the festival.

With critics and audiences alike responding enthusiastically, the film is being hailed as one of Trier’s finest works – a deeply personal story resonating with universal themes of reconciliation, ambition, and legacy.

As the festival continues, Sentimental Value remains a standout, both for its emotional impact and the artistic finesse that Trier consistently brings to international cinema.

Also Read: Karan Johar’s ‘Homebound’ Gets 10-Minute Standing Ovation At Cannes; Martin Scorsese Backs Film