OTC Rating : 4.5/5
Introduction
Joachim Trier’s The Worst Person in the World (2021) is a beautifully layered Norwegian romantic drama that delves into the complexities of modern relationships and self-discovery. Streaming now on MUBI, the film is a powerful character study that captures the uncertainties and emotional turbulence of adulthood. Trier’s distinct narrative style, compelling performances, and nuanced storytelling make it a cinematic gem that resonates deeply with audiences.
Story & Narrative Structure
The film follows Julie (Renate Reinsve), a young woman in Oslo navigating her late twenties. Torn between career paths, romantic relationships, and personal aspirations, she embarks on a journey of self-exploration. Divided into 12 chapters with a prologue and an epilogue, the narrative unfolds episodically, reflecting the nonlinear, unpredictable nature of life.
Trier’s narrative approach provides an intimate and authentic exploration of Julie’s inner conflicts. Each chapter captures defining moments in her life, blending light-heartedness with profound emotional depth. The film’s honesty about the discomfort of making choices and dealing with their consequences adds a universal relatability.
Image credit : IMDB
Direction & Cinematic Style
Joachim Trier’s direction is masterful in balancing realism with poetic storytelling. He seamlessly blends whimsical moments with raw emotional scenes, making the narrative feel both cinematic and deeply personal. Trier’s signature visual storytelling, enriched with intimate close-ups and immersive cityscapes, enhances the emotional texture of the film.
The fluidity of his camera movements, often tracking Julie through the streets of Oslo, adds a sense of vitality and immediacy. One of the standout scenes, where time freezes as Julie runs through the city, is a striking visual metaphor for the emotional rush of newfound desire.
Performances
Renate Reinsve delivers a career-defining performance as Julie, earning her the Best Actress award at Cannes. She brings immense depth and vulnerability to the character, capturing the subtleties of Julie’s emotional journey. Her portrayal is layered with moments of joy, regret, and self-realization, making Julie a fully realized and deeply empathetic character.
Anders Danielsen Lie, as Aksel, and Herbert Nordrum, as Eivind, offer equally compelling performances. Lie’s portrayal of a man grappling with the realities of aging and regret adds emotional weight to the narrative, while Nordrum’s charm and sincerity provide a contrasting perspective on love and commitment.
Image credit : IMDB
Production & Art Design
The production design by Roger Rosenberg is understated yet effective in grounding the story in a contemporary urban setting. Oslo becomes a vibrant backdrop to Julie’s emotional landscape, with its cozy apartments, bustling cafes, and picturesque streets reflecting her shifting moods and choices.
The use of color is particularly striking. The muted tones in Julie’s surroundings subtly contrast with the vibrant hues in moments of emotional clarity or turmoil, reinforcing the narrative’s emotional arcs.
Sound Design & Music
The sound design in The Worst Person in the World is deliberately naturalistic, enhancing the sense of realism. The ambient sounds of city life, the hum of conversations, and the subtle echoes of Julie’s inner world are woven seamlessly into the narrative.
The music, curated by Ola Fløttum, complements the film’s emotional landscape. The soundtrack features an eclectic mix of nostalgic and contemporary tracks, each enhancing the mood of key scenes. The use of Art Garfunkel’s “Waters of March” in a pivotal moment is particularly memorable, capturing the bittersweet beauty of fleeting experiences.
Image credit : IMDB
Editing
Editor Olivier Bugge Coutté’s work is sharp and purposeful, maintaining a rhythmic flow that mirrors the unpredictability of Julie’s journey. The film’s episodic structure is well-balanced, with smooth transitions between chapters that provide narrative cohesion.
The pacing allows the audience to fully immerse themselves in Julie’s experiences. Subtle montages and jump cuts effectively convey the passage of time, while more contemplative moments are given space to breathe, amplifying their emotional impact.
Final Verdict
The Worst Person in the World is a poignant and beautifully crafted film that captures the joys and heartbreaks of finding oneself. Trier’s impeccable direction, coupled with Renate Reinsve’s standout performance, creates an emotionally resonant cinematic experience. The film invites viewers to reflect on their own journeys of self-discovery, reminding us that life’s uncertainties are what make it so profoundly human.
Why Watch It
- A deeply relatable story of self-exploration and personal growth.
- Exceptional performances, particularly by Renate Reinsve.
- A visually and emotionally immersive cinematic experience.
- Thoughtful direction and masterful storytelling.
