Sentimental Value becomes first Norwegian film to win best international feature Oscar

Joachim Trier’s family saga is about a film director estranged from his adult daughters Sentimental Value has won the Oscar for best international feature at the 98th Academy Awards. The film is the first Norwegian film to win the honour; seven films have previously been nominated. Sentimental Value had seven nominations, but this was its only win. Directed by Joachim Trier, the film stars Stellan Skarsgård as a film director estranged from his daughters (played by Renate Reinsve and Inga Ibsdotter Lilleaas). Accepting the award, Trier said he felt compelled to act as a spokesperson for the international community of film-makers, saying this year’s nominees were “important, beautiful films that reflect our present crises and the crises of the past”. He added: “I want to end by paraphrasing the wonderful American writer James Baldwin, who makes us remember that all adults are responsible for all children, and let’s not vote for politicians who don’t take this seriously and into account.” Award presenter Javier Bardem had won substantial applause for his call of “Free Palestine” as he came on stage shortly before. Sentimental Value came out on top in a category that included It Was J