Dakota Fanning and Elle Fanning are set to share the screen together for the first time in the upcoming adaptation of Kristin Hannah’s bestselling novel, The Nightingale. Announced on July 22 by Sony Pictures, the film marks a significant moment in their careers with the sisters also taking on producing roles through their company, Lewellen Pictures.
The movie, which explores the story of two sisters during World War II in France, is scheduled for release in February 2027. This project officially brings the siblings together as co-leads after years of working separately despite their shared profession and family bond.
The Fanning Sisters’ History in Film and Their Relationship
While both sisters appeared in the 2001 film I Am Sam, their roles did not involve shared scenes since Elle played a younger version of Dakota’s character. This makes The Nightingale their first collaboration as screen partners. Dakota, 31, and Elle, 27, have always maintained a close and supportive relationship through their careers.
Reflecting on their dynamic, Dakota expressed their lack of rivalry and highlighted their different personalities.
“We have a very playful relationship, but we’re not competitive,”
she shared.
“We were never competitive growing up.”
She added,
“We have really different personalities too, so I think that’s also helpful. We like different things.”
On working together for this film, Dakota emphasized the comfort and understanding that comes with their sisterhood.
“I definitely just feel fortunate to have a sister period,”
she told E! News.
“And then to have a sister that fully understands every aspect of my life brings a sense of calm that I don’t even know that I have a full understanding of just because it has always been the way that it is.”
She continued,
“Just being able to have an understanding of what each other are going through and not having to explain certain things—it’s very nice.”
Producing Roles and Reese Witherspoon’s Involvement
Alongside acting, Dakota and Elle will produce The Nightingale with partner Reese Witherspoon’s production company, Hello Sunshine. Witherspoon selected the novel for her Reese’s Book Club in 2023, further spotlighting the story’s resonance. The collaboration promises a committed approach to adapting the international bestseller’s themes of resilience and sisterhood during a tumultuous era.
Influential Films Celebrating Sisterhood to Watch Ahead of The Nightingale
Leading up to the 2027 release of The Nightingale, many films celebrating sisterhood and female bonds have captivated audiences. Below is a selection of notable movies that explore these themes in diverse ways:
1. A League of Their Own (1992)
This sports comedy starring Geena Davis, Madonna, Lori Petty, and Rosie O’Donnell highlights teamwork and the idea that women belong in every field, including baseball.
2. Ocean’s 8 (2018)
Sandra Bullock, Cate Blanchett, Rihanna, and others star in this vibrant heist film where women steal the spotlight and pull off an elaborate caper.
3. Waiting to Exhale (1992)
Featuring Whitney Houston and Angela Bassett, this film delves into the enduring strength of female friendship despite romantic ups and downs.
4. Barbie (2023)
Directed by Greta Gerwig, this colorful exploration of womanhood stars Margot Robbie, Issa Rae, and Kate McKinnon, presenting varied facets of the iconic doll in a contemporary light.
5. Little Women (2019)
An adaptation of Louisa May Alcott’s novel, this film features Emma Watson, Florence Pugh, Saoirse Ronan, and Eliza Scanlen as four determined sisters charting their own paths. (The 1994 version includes Winona Ryder and Kirsten Dunst.)
6. Now and Then (1995)
A coming-of-age story spanning childhood and adulthood starring Demi Moore and Rosie O’Donnell, revealing the lasting bonds formed through life’s changes.
7. Pitch Perfect (2012)
This musical comedy about an a cappella group includes Anna Kendrick and Rebel Wilson, focusing on friendship and harmony.
8. The First Wives Club (1996)
Bette Midler, Goldie Hawn, and Diane Keaton portray three women who turn heartbreak into empowerment through friendship and revenge.
9. Bridesmaids (2011)
Kristen Wiig and Maya Rudolph star in this comedy about friendship, support, and the humor found in life’s chaotic moments.
10. The Color Purple (2023)
Taraji P. Henson and Fantasia Barrino lead this musical adaptation focusing on sisterhood and resilience. (The 1985 version featured Whoopi Goldberg and Oprah Winfrey.)
11. Steel Magnolias (1989)
A Southern community’s bond of sisterhood shines through performances by Julia Roberts, Sally Field, Dolly Parton, and others.
12. Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants (2005)
This heartfelt film with Blake Lively and Amber Tamblyn centers on the magical connection between lifelong friends and their shared experiences.
What the Fanning Sisters’ Partnership Means for Audiences
The upcoming Elle Fanning Dakota Fanning reunion in The Nightingale carries special anticipation, promising a compelling portrayal of sisterhood both on and off screen. Their collaboration not only adds depth to the film’s emotional core but also offers fans an inspiring example of familial and professional harmony.
With the support of Reese Witherspoon’s Hello Sunshine and their own producing roles, Dakota and Elle Fanning are poised to make a meaningful impact on cinematic storytelling about family and resilience. The film’s release will likely renew conversations about strong female relationships and wartime courage, while strengthening the public’s appreciation of the sisters’ acting talents together.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Was Elle Fanning’s dress see through?
A. The transparent fabric had a glass-like appearance and extended into a tulle train. Fanning chose another see-through dress for the Cannes Film Festival in May 2024.
Q. Did Elle Fanning have a baby?
A. Elle Fanning seems to have had a baby while working on her new Apple TV+ show, “Margo’s Got Money Troubles.” The 26-year-old is filming alongside Michelle Pfeiffer, who plays her mother in the series.
Q. Is Elle Fanning still in appropriate?
A. Ella Beatty is set to portray the young, free-spirited River in “Appropriate” when it moves to the Belasco Theatre next month. She replaces Elle Fanning, who leaves the show after it finishes its run at Second Stage’s Hayes Theater on March 3.
Q. Does Elle Fanning have freckles?
A. I’m wearing them currently. Spending some time in the sun has brought out my natural freckles, making them stand out more.
