Is this film really about The Worst Person in the World?
That is quite a bold statement to say you are truly the worst person. This hyperbole might set you up for disappointment as the lead character Julie is by no means the worst person. But she is no angel either. When it comes to romantic comedies, audiences generally know the formula that they are treated to. But when a filmmaker can set one up for those surprises and defy your expectations, that is when something special happens. Delivering a challenging protagonist and unexpected love stories, director Joachim Trier has something special up his sleeve with this new Norwegian film gunning for Best International Film.
What makes this film so subversive when it comes to the romance genre?
The journey that Julie goes on is quite unexpected. The audience is treated to a tale in 10 chapters (and a prologue and epilogue). From the start, it looks like Julie finds the love of her life. But things are not perfect in Julie’s romance with Aksel. One fateful party sends her life off course when she crashes one and connects with Eivind. They seem to be the true “love at first glance” kind of connection. But what can Julie do? Over the next four years of her life, she is stuck in a tug-of-war between the two men. But if that is not enough drama for you, there is a terminal illness, miscarriages, and adultery along the way. By the time the credits roll, Trier still has you questioning what the best life for Julie is (but he would never give you a nice clean resolution with a pretty bow on it).
But how does Trier differentiate this new romance from the endless amounts of other romances to choose from (especially in the month of February)?
This is certainly a romantic comedy in the sense that the film delivers strong laughs throughout. But these are sharp and clever laughs (not ones spawning from silly gags or obnoxious misfortunes).
There is a distinct tone to this film that will challenge the audience.
These characters are so well written that there are real sparks that fly when the characters interact. These deeply character-driven moments are the ones that bring the laughs for the audience instead. But Trier can effortlessly weave into the darkness in his story. You struggle to find your way in navigating Julie’s challenging life and there are emotionally poignant scenes that Trier expertly crafts. Subtly is the key and Trier can keep you interpreting what is going on in the film.
But this film is only as poignant as the great performances that anchor it, right?
Julie is portrayed with nuance and tenderness by Renate Reinsve. She can capture the charm and charisma in her character that has multiple men pining for her along the way. She can make you laugh and make you cry from scene to scene. The chemistry she has with her male counterparts is so rich that you are convinced that she is in love with both. There is also sheer energy that sells the more antagonistic scenes throughout where her relationships take the turn in the wrong direction. But Reinsve is not alone in offering up engaging and nuanced performances. Anders Danielsen Lie brings a presence to Aksel who is sympathetic and strong. Herbert Nordrum is electric as Eivind as we can see why he can charm Julie into his corner during that fateful party.
Does The Worst Person in the World offer up an effort worthy of the buzz it is getting for the Best International Film shortlist?
Show this one some love because it is the kind of film that will be sitting with you long after its credits roll.
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In a challenging and impressive field of international films, Trier’s effort is top-notch and competitive. This is a unique and poignant romance that will challenge its audience in processing a protagonist who might not be the cleanest cut. Julie is a layered character (brought to life by a dynamic performance) who will capture the imagination of the audience along the way.
