Sentimental Value has emerged as the frontrunner for the 38th European Film Awards after earning a category-leading five nominations. The announcement was made Tuesday in Seville, Spain, where the European Film Academy revealed the films and talent competing for top honors. The lineup features a diverse slate of productions from across the continent, with Sirāt, Sound of Falling, and It Was Just an Accident following closely behind. Winners will be crowned on January 17 in Berlin. This marks a significant milestone for Sentimental Value, which continues its strong awards-season momentum.
Nominations Breakdown
Sentimental Value leads all contenders with five major nominations, including European Film, Director (Joachim Trier), Actor (Stellan Skarsgård), Actress (Renate Reinsve), and Screenwriter (Eskil Vogt & Joachim Trier).
Sirāt received four nominations, reflecting strong performances across fictional storytelling and direction.
Both Sound of Falling and It Was Just an Accident earned three nominations each, securing competitive positions in the race.
The European Film category features a mix of documentary, animation, and fiction titles, including Afternoons of Solitude, Dog of God, Olivia and the Invisible Earthquake, Tales From the Magic Garden, Songs of Slow Burning Earth, and more.
The acting categories also spotlight major European stars, with notable contenders such as Mads Mikkelsen, Toni Servillo, and Leonie Benesch.
Quotes & Reactions
Though no formal statements were released by the filmmakers, industry analysts noted that Sentimental Value’s strong showing reinforces its position as one of the year’s most critically admired films.
Film critic observers at the announcement described the nominations as “a major validation of the film’s emotional impact and artistic craft.”
Award analysts also highlighted how Joachim Trier’s return to prominence reflects “a consistent evolution in European auteur cinema” and praised Renate Reinsve’s nomination for “another standout performance following her international breakout.”
Impact Analysis
The strong lead for Sentimental Value positions the film as a favorite heading into the Berlin ceremony. Its nominations across directing, acting, and writing categories demonstrate wide recognition from the European Film Academy.
The competition, however, remains tight. Sirāt has emerged as a critical darling, while Sound of Falling continues to win acclaim for its narrative ambition.
This diverse nomination landscape highlights a strong year for European cinema, blending experimental works, emerging talent, and veteran auteurs.
For Sentimental Value, a sweep could further strengthen its path toward international distribution, festival awards, and potential Oscar visibility.
What’s Next
The 38th European Film Awards ceremony will take place January 17, 2026, in Berlin.
Leading nominees are expected to participate in promotional events and interviews ahead of the ceremony.
Final voting by academy members will conclude in early January, after which winners in all major categories will be announced live.
Sentimental Value, given its broad recognition, will enter the ceremony as the one to beat.
Sentimental Value’s five nominations underscore its status as the leading contender at this year’s European Film Awards. With the ceremony set for January in Berlin, the film now stands poised for potential major wins that could cement its legacy across European cinema.
Sources
Variety
European Film Academy
Official Awards Press Releases
