Elle Fanning and her older sister, Dakota Fanning, have both been prominent figures in the entertainment industry since childhood. However, they are set to appear onscreen together for the very first time in a forthcoming film, sparking excitement among fans. This milestone project highlights the bond between the siblings and features the keyword Elle Fanning Dakota Sisters.
During her appearance on the January 16 episode of The Kelly Clarkson Show, Elle, 27, expressed her delight in working alongside Dakota, who is 31. She explained how the two complement each other’s strengths, with Dakota helping to ground Elle’s sometimes ambitious ideas.
We really balance each other out in a good way,
Elle said.
She’s kind of my interpreter. Because sometimes I can get a bit in my head and I have all these big ideas, and she’s like, ‘Alright, let’s bring you down.’
Elle added,
It’s the younger sibling thing. She translates for me and we have great, different strengths.
Elle was thrilled to announce that this project marks the first time she and Dakota will be sharing the screen in a film. Together, they are producing the adaptation of Kristin Hannah’s World War II novel, The Nightingale, through their production company, Lewellen Pictures.
Kelly Clarkson showed her enthusiasm upon learning about the film, recalling her familiarity with the novel. Elle confirmed the plans, saying,
Yes, yes! We’re gonna do that! And we’re producing it,
and noted the story’s powerful focus on sisterhood as she continued,
It’s a great book, and it’s really like the ultimate sister story. [We’re] about to go off and do it soon.
The Fanning Sisters to Portray Siblings in ‘The Nightingale’
The casting of Dakota and Elle Fanning as leads in the film was first announced in December 2019. In the adaptation of Kristin Hannah’s novel, the sisters will portray Isabelle and Vianne, two siblings grappling with survival during the German invasion of France in World War II.
‘The Nightingale’ will be the first time we act on screen together,
the sisters stated in a joint interview with The Hollywood Reporter.
We have played the same character at different ages but have never spoken to each other in front of a camera. For years, we have looked for a film to do with one another and then this gem appeared.
They emphasized the significance of bringing this story to life, saying,
As sisters, to share our artistry with each other while bringing such a powerful sister story to life is a dream come true. We are so lucky to have our fearless director, Melanie Laurent, to guide us along on the journey. Let’s do this, sister!!
The film adaptation is scheduled for release in February 2027.
Anticipating the Impact of This Historic Collaboration
The partnership between Dakota and Elle Fanning to co-star in The Nightingale marks a significant moment in their careers, highlighting both their familial connection and professional growth. Portraying sisters in a story centered on resilience in wartime France, the film is poised to draw attention for its emotional depth and historical context.
As producers and leading actresses, the Fanning sisters are taking ownership of a narrative that emphasizes sisterhood and courage, promising a project filled with intensity and passion. The involvement of director Melanie Laurent adds further anticipation to this awaited release, which may deepen audiences’ appreciation for both the novel’s themes and the Fannings’ artistic collaboration.
