The author covers Joachim Trier in several articles: a general overview of motifs and devices, on Oslo, August 31st here , Louder Than Bombs here , and Thelma , in three articles here , here and here. While the middle film revolved around one person, we are back to the Reprise constellation of two males and one female, but with the latter as an uncontested lead this time. And what a lead it is.
Renate Reinsve came from the absolute unknown and exploded a Cannes-winning performance upon the world. Julie, the smart and sensitive but irresolute and flailing heroine, drifts between various educations, enthusiasms and boyfriends. Coming from a more modest background, he is a successful version of the failed Anders from Oslo, August 31st. His forceful personality tends to make him the dominant part in his relationship with an increasingly dissatisfied Julie.
Suddenly she stumbles upon the likeable but much less ambitious Eivind, played by Herbert Nordrum , who only wants to adore her. In his own relationship he is dominated by Sunniva Maria Grazia De Meo , a fanatical environmental activist and yoga influencer. This analytical article will cover a wide range of aspects, but form and structural echoes are recurring concerns.
Before this, however, let us briefly look at some other features. The title card is followed by a solemn announcement that The Worst Person in the World is delivered in twelve chapters and a prologue and a epilogue, but this almost pedantic start could not be more misleading for such a lively film. The first two acts are packed with precision-made humorous and character observations, and the excellence of the main performances is followed up by a wide range of supporting characters, as usual with Trier perfectly cast.
This author likes to believe the film to be a portrait of the formative forces on a future artist. In her wandering, meandering quest Aksel happens to become a pivotal mentor figure.
