Sisters Dakota Fanning and Elle Fanning will share the screen for the first time in the upcoming World War II film The Nightingale, marking a highly anticipated Elle Fanning Dakota Fanning reunion. The movie, based on Kristin Hannah’s bestselling novel, is scheduled for release in February 2027 by TriStar Pictures.
Both actresses will not only star but also produce the film through their company Lewellen Pictures, alongside Hello Sunshine, Reese Witherspoon’s production company, and The Cantillon Company. Reese Witherspoon had highlighted the book for her Reese’s Book Club in 2023, recognizing its powerful story about two sisters in wartime France.
Details of the Fannings’ First Joint Film Project
Though Dakota and Elle have both been prominent figures in Hollywood since childhood, this project represents their inaugural feature together in shared scenes. Previously, in the 2001 film I Am Sam, Elle portrayed a younger version of Dakota’s character, but the sisters never appeared together on screen. This new film will deepen their professional collaboration as well as spotlight their real-life sister bond.
Dakota, 31, and Elle, 27, emphasize their warm relationship and distinct personalities. Dakota told E! News that their dynamic has always been playful rather than competitive, which has strengthened their partnership in the entertainment industry over the years.
“For the first time ever, sisters Dakota and Elle Fanning are set to star in a film together,”
Sony Pictures announced.
“in the adaptation of Kristin Hannah’s global book phenomenon The Nightingale.”
“We have a very playful relationship, but we’re not competitive,”
Dakota said.
“We were never competitive growing up.”
“We have really different personalities too, so I think that’s also helpful. We like different things.”
—Dakota Fanning, Actress
The Emotional Connection Between the Sisters
Reflecting on the significance of their partnership, Dakota explained how having Elle as a sister offers a unique sense of calm and understanding. She acknowledged the comfort of sharing a bond where explanations are often unnecessary, enhancing their work on The Nightingale and their lives overall.
“I definitely just feel fortunate to have a sister period,”
Dakota said.
“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.”
“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.”
—Dakota Fanning, Actress
Exploring Sisterhood Through Cinema: Notable Films to Watch
Ahead of The Nightingale’s highly anticipated release, audiences can revisit a collection of memorable films that celebrate sisterhood and female friendship. These movies explore themes of loyalty, resilience, and bonding, much like the story Dakota and Elle will bring to life.
Classic and Contemporary Films Highlighting Sisterly Bonds
1. A League of Their Own (1992)
This beloved sports comedy features actresses such as Geena Davis and Madonna, emphasizing teamwork and the spirit of women in baseball, challenging traditional home-centric roles.
2. Ocean’s 8 (2018)
A star-studded ensemble including Sandra Bullock and Cate Blanchett comes together to execute a dazzling heist, proving women can dominate genres traditionally led by men.
3. Waiting to Exhale (1992)
Whitney Houston, Angela Bassett, Loretta Devine, and Lela Rochon portray enduring friendship that withstands romantic ups and downs, inspired by Forest Whitaker’s directorial debut.
4. Barbie (2023)
Directed by Greta Gerwig, this technicolor film starring Margot Robbie and Issa Rae dives into the complexities of femininity and self-discovery through an array of diverse characters.
5. Little Women (2019)
An adaptation of Louisa May Alcott’s classic novel, featuring Emma Watson, Florence Pugh, Saoirse Ronan, and Eliza Scanlen, focusing on the ambitions and struggles of four sisters.
6. Now and Then (1995)
This coming-of-age story stars Demi Moore, Rosie O’Donnell, and Melanie Griffith, alongside younger versions played by Christina Ricci and Gaby Hoffmann, illustrating friendship across generations.
7. Pitch Perfect (2012)
Featuring Anna Kendrick and Brittany Snow, this musical comedy showcases the power of harmony and camaraderie among a college a cappella group.
8. The First Wives Club (1996)
Bette Midler, Goldie Hawn, and Diane Keaton portray three divorcées who turn adversity into empowerment with wit and humor.
9. Bridesmaids (2011)
Kristen Wiig and Maya Rudolph lead this hilarious film about close friends supporting each other through life’s chaotic moments.
10. The Color Purple (2023)
Taraji P. Henson, Fantasia Barrino, and Danielle Brooks star in this musical adaptation of Alice Walker’s novel, showcasing profound sisterhood and resilience.
11. Steel Magnolias (1989)
Featuring Dolly Parton and Julia Roberts, this film captures the enduring bonds among women from a Southern community who support each other through life’s challenges.
12. Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants (2005)
Starring Blake Lively, Amber Tamblyn, and America Ferrera, this film celebrates the magic of friendship and shared experiences among a close-knit group of friends.
Looking Ahead to The Nightingale’s Impact
The collaboration between Elle and Dakota Fanning in The Nightingale represents not only a professional milestone but also a heartfelt celebration of sisterhood mirrored in the film’s storyline. Their joint production effort, supported by Reese Witherspoon’s Hello Sunshine, signals a strong commitment to telling stories that resonate deeply with audiences.
As fans anticipate the film’s release in early 2027, the Elle Fanning Dakota Fanning reunion is poised to inspire renewed interest in narratives centered on female resilience and family bonds during times of adversity, amplifying the importance of shared history and empathy in cinema.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Was Elle Fanning’s dress see through?
A. The see-through fabric, similar to glass, extended into a tulle train. Fanning chose another transparent 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 called Margo’s Got Money Troubles. The 26-year-old actress is filming the series alongside Michelle Pfeiffer, who will portray her mother.
Q. Is Elle Fanning still in appropriate?
A. Ella Beatty is set to portray the character of River, who has a hippie mindset, in “Appropriate” at the Belasco Theatre next month. She will replace Elle Fanning, who leaves the role after the show ends its current run at Second Stage’s Hayes Theater on March 3.
Q. Does Elle Fanning have freckles?
A. I’m wearing them at the moment. Spending some time in the sun has made my natural freckles appear more, so they really stand out now.
