The Worst Person in the World (2021) – A Poignant Portrait of Modern Love and Self-Discovery
Joachim Trier’s The Worst Person in the World is a profoundly human and bittersweet exploration of love, identity, and the uncertainty of modern adulthood. This 2021 Norwegian film, part of Trier’s “Oslo Trilogy,” has earned widespread acclaim for its emotional depth, sharp humor, and raw honesty, making it one of the standout films of its year.
The story follows Julie (Renate Reinsve, in a career-defining performance), a restless young woman navigating her late 20s and early 30s. Torn between careers, relationships, and her own sense of purpose, Julie’s life unfolds in twelve chapters, a prologue, and an epilogue. As she oscillates between romantic partners—the stable and intellectual Aksel (Anders Danielsen Lie) and the carefree Eivind (Herbert Nordrum)—Julie’s journey captures the chaos, beauty, and heartbreak of figuring out who you truly are.
Renate Reinsve shines as Julie, bringing a layered, vulnerable, and fiercely relatable performance that earned her the Best Actress award at Cannes. The film’s narrative structure, blending humor with poignant moments, feels as unpredictable as life itself, while Trier’s direction offers stunning visuals of Oslo, creating a sense of intimacy with the city that mirrors Julie’s inner world.
What makes The Worst Person in the World so powerful is its unflinching honesty about life’s imperfections. It explores themes of regret, choice, and self-acceptance with tenderness and wit, making it deeply resonant for anyone who’s ever felt lost or questioned their path.
The film’s emotional finale lingers long after the credits roll, reminding us that life’s messiness is what makes it meaningful. It’s a beautiful, heartrending story that will leave you reflecting on your own journey.