Fairyland, a Sofia Coppola coming-of-age drama produced by the Oscar-winning filmmaker, has secured a theatrical release date set for October 10, 2025. The film, written and directed by Andrew Durham, is based on Alysia Abbott’s memoir and explores a father–daughter relationship growing amid the 1970s and 1980s San Francisco AIDS crisis.
The story centers on a young girl being raised by her gay father after her mother’s death, highlighting their life within a burgeoning LGBT community. The film’s ensemble cast features Emilia Jones, Cody Fern, Scoot McNairy, Adam Lambert, Bella Murphy, Maria Bakalova, Geena Davis, and Nessa Dougherty. Lionsgate and WILLA will co-distribute Fairyland, though the details regarding the scale of its theater release have yet to be announced.
Release Timing and Competition in Theaters
Fairyland’s scheduled release comes during a notably crowded theatrical window, coinciding with the start of a holiday weekend on October 10, 2025. This date also marks the release of other significant films, including Tron: Ares, a highly anticipated legacy sequel. Additionally, the drama films After the Hunt and If I Had Legs I’d Kick You will be direct competitors, with the latter also having received recognition at the 2023 Sundance Film Festival.
Fairyland itself debuted at Sundance in 2023 to a positive reception. It holds a strong 97% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, reflecting widespread critical favor. ScreenRant reviewer Mae Abdulbaki awarded the film seven out of ten stars, specifically commending the lead actors’ performances. This suggests Fairyland could attract attention despite the competitive release period.
Expectations for Wider Audience Reach and Critical Response
Following its festival premiere more than two years ago, Fairyland’s new release date signals a significant step toward broader distribution and audience exposure. The creative team likely hopes this opportunity will enhance the film’s visibility and critical acclaim beyond the festival circuit. Sofia Coppola’s role as a producer adds an influential element, even though she is not directing or writing this project.
The film’s premise and strong initial reviews provide a solid foundation for Fairyland to connect with audiences upon its theatrical launch. Its setting in a transformative era for the LGBT community and its emotional narrative focusing on family and loss give the film a poignant and timely relevance.
About the Cast and Story Setting
Emilia Jones and Scoot McNairy lead the cast of Fairyland, portraying the central father–daughter relationship. Set against the backdrop of 1970s and ’80s San Francisco, the movie draws on Alysia Abbott’s memoir to explore themes of unconventional family dynamics and resilience. The narrative delves into the challenges faced by those navigating identity and community during the AIDS epidemic, adding depth to the coming-of-age drama.
