Stellan Skarsgård on First Oscar Nom, Lars von Trier and AI Fears

Variety

by Clayton Davis

February 20, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Stellan Skarsgård has earned his first Academy Award nomination after a remarkable career spanning over 50 years, recognized for his role as Gustav Borg in Joachim Trier’s Norwegian-language film *Sentimental Value*. The film received nine Oscar nominations in total, despite being overlooked entirely by the SAG Awards. Skarsgård attributes much of the film’s success to its unspoken elements—its atmosphere and emotional depth—which he believes are drawn from the actors’ personal experiences and memories. This approach, combined with Trier’s direction, allowed Skarsgård to deliver a performance he considers one of the finest in his career. Reflecting on his journey, Skarsgård acknowledges that the film’s impact was not immediately clear during filming. The actor, who has worked with renowned directors like Lars von Trier and Denis Villeneuve, credits Trier for fostering an environment where creativity could flourish. This trust in the filmmaking process, along with the exceptional performances of his co-stars, contributed to the film’s emotional resonance. Skarsgård’s nomination is a significant milestone for both him and the film. It highlights the enduring appeal of nuanced storytelling and character-driven narratives in cinema. As an actor who has consistently sought to understand people through his work, Skarsgård views this recognition as validation of the art form’s ability to connect deeply with audiences. His philosophical perspective on acting—rooted in a lifelong curiosity about human nature—underscores why his achievement is meaningful for entertainment enthusiasts and cinephiles alike. This recognition also underscores the value of independent cinema and thought-provoking storytelling, which often flies under the radar but can achieve remarkable success when given the chance to shine. Skarsgård’s nomination serves as a reminder of the power of collaboration and authenticity in filmmaking, qualities that continue to inspire audiences and critics alike.

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Originally published on Variety on 2/20/2026