san Sebastian, Spain – renowned Director Joachim Trier, celebrated for films such as The Worst Person in the World and Sentimental Value, addressed an audience at the San Sebastian Film Festival Sunday, detailing his steadfast insistence on maintaining final cut throughout his career. The Danish-Norwegian filmmaker’s remarks sparked a dialogue regarding artistic freedom and the challenges of financing independent films.

Trier, whose 2021 film earned him an Academy Award nomination, currently has sentimental Value screening at the festival. The film stars Renate Reinsve, alongside Stellan Skarsgard and Elle Fanning, and explores complex family dynamics through the lens of a fading director and his daughters.

The Fight for final Cut

The Director recounted a pivotal moment early in his career,following the success of his 2006 film Reprise. When faced with discussions about partnering with a U.S. studio, Trier instantly asserted his need for complete creative control. “I need final cut, I’ve had it since film one,” he stated, emphasizing what he views as a moral obligation to the actors who entrust him with their performances.

“If they show their emotions, their bodies, whatever – we created a movie [and] I carry the responsibility of what they bring to the final product,” Trier explained. He argued against allowing financial interests to dictate artistic choices,asserting that such interference undermines the trust within a creative team. He added that he feels a moral responsibility toward the entire crew, acknowledging the sacrifices made during production.

However, Trier was speedy to acknowledge that achieving creative autonomy isn’t always straightforward. “I’m not going to shame peopel,” he remarked, “because it’s damn hard to make a film and many, many, many films are made every year where the director didn’t have final cut, and they’re wonderful films.”

European Financing: A Double-Edged Sword

Trier attributed his ability to secure final cut to his roots in the European film financing system.While acknowledging the system’s support for artistic expression, he also cautioned that it faces ongoing political threats from right-wing movements seeking to reduce arts funding.

“Right-wing political movements are always trying to diminish the idea of soft money support for the arts across most countries in Europe… We need support.And most art has always been supported by someone with an intention of not just making money, but supporting expression and artistic endeavors,” he said.

He believes that the success of a film often hinges on a director’s deep involvement in all stages of production. He further commented that producers should actually embrace the need for directors to have substantial creative control, “If you [look at] film history, a lot of the films that commercially worked have also been made by directors that are deeply involved in the script process, deeply involved in the editing and has had a sense of control – the achievements of personal expression is at the core of some of the most successful films, financially.”

Balancing Art and Parenthood

During the discussion, Trier touched upon personal themes that influenced his work, particularly his latest film. He openly discussed his anxieties about failing as a father, noting that these fears directly informed his portrayal of the character Gustav Borg, played by stellan Skarsgard.

“I said going in, ‘I’m really scared of failing as a father.’ And it’s very symbolic to make this film for me, because I don’t want to be Gustav,” Trier confessed.

He also highlighted the positive shift in Norway’s film industry, spurred by increased depiction of female directors, which has fostered a more collaborative and supportive surroundings for all filmmakers and facilitated open conversations about work-life balance. “Actually, the feminist discourse around cinema has helped men also allow ourselves bigger freedom of figuring out how we make movies [as parents].”

The Importance of Final Cut

the debate surrounding final cut is a recurring one in the film industry. While studios often prioritize financial returns, many directors argue that creative control is essential for producing meaningful and authentic work.this control allows filmmakers to fully realize their vision and ensure the film reflects their artistic intent. A Director’s vision is what sets a film apart from the others.

the European film financing model, while facing challenges, continues to provide a valuable choice to the studio system, fostering a culture of artistic experimentation and independent storytelling.It enables filmmakers to take risks and pursue projects that might not be commercially viable under a more conventional funding structure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is ‘final cut’ in filmmaking?

Final cut refers to the right of a film’s director to have the final say on the editing and overall creative decisions of a film, without interference from the studio or producers.

Why is final cut vital to Joachim Trier?

Trier believes final cut is a moral responsibility to the actors and crew who contribute to a film, ensuring their work is presented as intended.

what are the benefits of the European film financing system?

The European system often prioritizes artistic expression and supports independent filmmaking, allowing for greater creative freedom.

How does Trier balance his artistic vision with the demands of filmmaking?

Trier has consistently fought to retain final cut,emphasizing the importance of creative control and trusting his artistic instincts.

What role did parenthood play in Trier’s latest film,Sentimental value?

Trier admitted his fears of failing as a father informed his portrayal of the film’s central character,Gustav Borg.