The Worst Person in the World (2021) Movie Review: A Modern Tale of Self-Discovery and Relationships
“The Worst Person in the World” (2021), directed by Joachim Trier, is a critically acclaimed Norwegian film that explores the complexities of modern relationships, personal growth, and the search for identity. The film is a poignant and often humorous examination of one woman’s journey through her late twenties, capturing the trials and tribulations of navigating love, career, and self-understanding. This review will cover the plot, performances, direction, cinematography, themes, and streaming availability, especially in the United States.
Plot Summary
“The Worst Person in the World” follows Julie (Renate Reinsve), a young woman in her late twenties who is struggling with her sense of direction in life. As she navigates the uncertainties of her career and relationships, Julie grapples with questions about her identity and her future.
The film is structured in a series of chapters that reflect different phases of Julie’s life, including her tumultuous relationships with two men: Aksel (Anders Danielsen Lie), a successful comic book artist who is much older than Julie, and Eivind (Hans Olav Brenner), a charming and less conventional partner. As Julie oscillates between these relationships and explores various career paths, she embarks on a journey of self-discovery that challenges her assumptions and desires.
Performances
- Renate Reinsve as Julie delivers a standout performance, capturing the character’s complexity and vulnerability with nuance and authenticity. Reinsve’s portrayal of Julie’s emotional journey is both engaging and relatable, earning her widespread critical acclaim.
- Anders Danielsen Lie as Aksel provides a thoughtful and compelling performance, representing the more stable but ultimately conflicted aspect of Julie’s life. His role adds depth to the film’s exploration of relationships and personal growth.
- Hans Olav Brenner as Eivind offers a charming and dynamic performance, contrasting with Aksel and highlighting Julie’s search for connection and meaning.
Direction and Cinematography
Joachim Trier’s direction is both insightful and inventive, bringing a fresh perspective to the exploration of modern relationships and personal development. Trier’s approach to storytelling is characterized by its emotional depth and creative structure, allowing the film to explore various facets of Julie’s life with sensitivity and humor.
The cinematography by Kasper Tuxen complements Trier’s direction with its vibrant and dynamic visuals. The film’s use of color, composition, and camera movement enhances the storytelling and captures the nuances of Julie’s experiences. The cinematography effectively reflects the film’s emotional tone and themes, contributing to its overall impact.
Themes and Symbolism
“The Worst Person in the World” delves into themes of identity, self-discovery, and the complexities of modern relationships. The film explores the challenges of finding one’s path in life, the difficulties of balancing personal desires with societal expectations, and the impact of relationships on individual growth.
Julie’s journey reflects the struggle of navigating life’s uncertainties and the quest for authentic self-understanding. The film’s exploration of these themes is both poignant and relatable, offering a nuanced portrayal of the challenges faced by many in their late twenties.
Availability on Streaming Services
For audiences in the United States, “The Worst Person in the World” is available for streaming on services like Hulu. The film can also be rented or purchased on platforms such as Amazon Prime Video, Google Play Movies, Apple iTunes, and Vudu. These options provide convenient access to this critically acclaimed drama.
Conclusion
“The Worst Person in the World” (2021) is a compelling and emotionally resonant film that offers a nuanced exploration of modern relationships and personal growth. With standout performances from Renate Reinsve, Anders Danielsen Lie, and Hans Olav Brenner, combined with Joachim Trier’s insightful direction and Kasper Tuxen’s dynamic cinematography, the film provides a fresh and engaging cinematic experience.
With its availability on Hulu and other major streaming services, “The Worst Person in the World” is accessible to a wide audience. Whether you are interested in character-driven dramas or explorations of modern life and relationships, this movie offers a thoughtful and memorable viewing experience.
