In the first of a trilogy that concludes with The Worst Person in the World, director Joachim Trier presents a scintillating study of friendship.
Erik (Espen Klouman Hoiner) and Phillip (Anders Danielsen Lie) are best friends, novelists struggling through their lives in Oslo. Both are in problematic relationships, but whereas Erik has a tough time finishing his book and his relationship, Philip completes his writing, attracts critical acclaim but finds his life going up in flames through his obsession with his girlfriend (Viktoria Winge). It consumes his so much he is forced to seek treatment. Through it all, the young men’s friendship continues, albeit challenged by the obstacles that life keeps throwing at them.
Trier’s feature directorial debut cements the promise of his award-winning shorts. Along with long-term co-writer Eskil Vogt, Reprise plays with dramatic conventions, keeping viewers in a constant state of suspense. And as Philip, Danielsen Lie proves a magnetic presence. The actor has since become a mainstay of Trier’s film and from his breakout performance here it’s not hard to see why.
