Hania Rani Triumphs at 38th European Film Awards for 'Sentimental Value' Original Score

On January 17, 2026, the European film community gathered in Berlin for the 38th European Film Awards, an evening that celebrated the pinnacle of continental cinema. Among the night's most celebrated winners was Polish composer and pianist Hania Rani, who was honored with the award for European Composer (Original Score). Her contribution to Joachim Trier’s “Sentimental Value” was a cornerstone of the film's success throughout the gala. The production was the dominant force of the ceremony, walking away with six major prizes, including the coveted Best European Film award, marking a historic night for the Norwegian director and his entire creative team.

The score for “Sentimental Value” represents a rare instance where music is woven into the very fabric of the film rather than serving as a secondary element. Rani utilized a meticulous balance of piano, strings, and synthesizers to create what critics have described as an internal breathing line for the plot. Interestingly, the collaboration between Rani and Trier was built on an extraordinary level of mutual trust. The composer began her work intuitively, writing the score based on the screenplay before the final editing process had even begun. This proactive approach allowed the music to influence the rhythm of the film itself, showcasing a mature and bold synergy between director and composer.

The technical production of the soundtrack was equally impressive, spanning across some of Europe's most prestigious recording venues. Sessions took place at the world-renowned Abbey Road Studios in London and the historic studios of Polish Radio in Warsaw. This geographical diversity in production not only ensured a high-fidelity sound but also underscored the “European geography of sound” that Rani aimed to capture. By blending the heritage of these institutions, the score achieved a sophisticated and polished quality that resonated deeply with the European Film Academy members and international audiences alike.

However, the gala in Berlin was not solely focused on artistic accolades; it also served as a platform for significant social reflection. The ceremony was opened by the Iranian filmmaker Jafar Panahi, who delivered a powerful and moving political address. Panahi spoke about the ongoing struggles against violence and repression in Iran, reminding the audience of the moral imperative to speak out against injustice. This stark contrast between the celebration of cinematic triumph and the harsh realities of global social issues served as a reminder that European cinema remains a vital space for both personal storytelling and collective social consciousness.

The momentum for “Sentimental Value” has been building steadily since its debut on the international circuit. Prior to its success in Berlin, the film earned significant recognition at the Cannes Film Festival, where it was honored with the Grand Prix. Following its sweep at the European Film Awards, the movie is increasingly being cited by industry analysts as a primary contender in the ongoing global awards season. The combination of Trier’s directorial vision and Rani’s atmospheric score has positioned the film as one of the most significant cultural exports of the year, bridging the gap between arthouse sensibilities and broader recognition.

Beyond the trophies and critical acclaim, Hania Rani’s victory highlights a shifting trend in the sonic landscape of modern film. There is a growing preference for scores that offer resonance and emotional depth rather than mere cinematic noise. Her music acts as a delicate instrument that tunes the viewer’s perception, guiding the audience through the narrative without the use of heavy-handed emotional pressure. In this shared auditory experience, a new field of communication is established—one that encourages the audience not just to watch, but to truly hear and understand the nuances of the human experience, fostering a sense of connection in an increasingly fragmented world.