Elle Fanning has grown up in the public eye, transitioning from the younger sister of Dakota Fanning to a prominent figure in Hollywood. Known for her blonde hair and wide eyes, she initially appeared as a sweet, innocent child in films like We Bought a Zoo and Daddy Day Care. As she matured, her roles evolved to fit her age, portraying complex teenagers in movies such as Ginger & Rosa and Sofia Coppola’s Somewhere. This gradual shift marked her early career, where her characters were often protected and never truly in jeopardy.
Breaking Typecasting with a Bold Horror Role
In 2016, Elle Fanning’s role in The Neon Demon signified a decisive break from her earlier typecasting. The film, polarizing since its release, belongs to a category of horror that blends eerie glamour with disturbing themes. Unlike traditional dark, ghostly horror, The Neon Demon presents a modern, stylized kind of fear where daylight and the glitzy world of fashion become unsettling backdrops. Fanning plays Jesse, a 16-year-old orphan from Georgia who arrives in Los Angeles aiming for success in the modeling industry. Her innocence contrasts sharply with the sinister realities she encounters, including violence, assault, and elements of the occult.
The Controversial Nature of The Neon Demon
The Neon Demon challenges audiences with its bold mix of beauty and brutality. The plot escalates into extreme territory, incorporating scenes of cannibalism and satanism, which divisively affected viewers. Some, including the author, found the film’s clash between Jesse’s naivety and the horror of the fashion world mesmerizing and effective. However, others reacted negatively, unable to reconcile the unsettling tone. Recognizing this split, Fanning explained her awareness of the differing reactions to the film.
People either loved it or hated it.
?Elle Fanning, Actress
Her experience growing up in Hollywood has given her a steady perspective on art’s subjective nature. She credited the director Nicolas Winding Refn for framing this divide.
Nic describes it the best: ‘With art you can’t say if it’s good or bad, it’s about making people react’
?Elle Fanning, Actress
Embracing the Film’s Divisive Impact
For Fanning, the purpose was to challenge viewers and generate strong feelings rather than seek universal approval. She welcomed the controversial response as a sign of meaningful art that sparks discussion.
If people had, you know, just been like ‘Oh it’s good’ then it would be kind of boring,
she said. Continuing, she added,
You want people to think about it and to talk about it.
?Elle Fanning, Actress
This intention reflects a pivotal moment in her career, where stepping into the unsettling world of The Neon Demon pushed her beyond previous safe roles and positioned her as a bold, experimental talent. The film’s impact remains significant for audiences willing to engage with its dark and vibrant narrative, suggesting that Fanning’s exploration of such challenging material will influence her future choices and the perceptions of her work in Hollywood.
