Dakota Fanning, reflecting on her time filming the 2005 blockbuster War of the Worlds, shared an emotional memory that highlighted the warmth and camaraderie on set. While discussing her career during the promotion of Peacock’s new series All Her Fault, Fanning recounted how director Steven Spielberg and co-star Tom Cruise created a special moment for the cast and crew just before Thanksgiving, leaving a lasting impression on her approach to filmmaking. The Dakota Fanning War of the Worlds story serves as a reminder of the powerful bonds formed behind the scenes of a major film production.
A Memorable Thanksgiving Gesture on Set
As War of the Worlds wrapped filming ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday, anticipation filled the air as everyone prepared for a break. According to Fanning, what followed was an unexpected gesture from Steven Spielberg and Tom Cruise, leaving a deep mark on everyone present. She described the scene where, after the final shot of the day, the crew was led into another studio space where a surprise awaited them.
I remember we were going away for the Thanksgiving break. It was like, “That’s a wrap. Have a great Thanksgiving, everyone.” And then these huge doors opened to another studio, and there were just 2000 pies in this empty soundstage. Just tables and tables of pies that Steven and Tom had brought in for the crew for a little Thanksgiving send-off. And I was like, “Wow, it’s a lot of pies!” It set me up to realize how important doing special things for the crew that you’re working with is, and how far that goes, and to show appreciation and to celebrate the work that people are doing.
—Dakota Fanning, Actor
A Lesson in Gratitude and Teamwork
Fanning explained that this grand, thoughtful Thanksgiving surprise reinforced the value of kindness and gratitude on set, setting a standard for her own behavior as her career progressed. She emphasized how this act of generosity, from both Spielberg and Cruise, demonstrated the importance of showing appreciation for the hard work provided by the crew. The experience became a model for her, inspiring her to celebrate and acknowledge the contributions of everyone involved in filmmaking.
Success of War of the Worlds and Fanning’s Career Evolution
War of the Worlds was a considerable box office success, earning over $600 million globally and becoming one of 2005’s highest-grossing films. The film starred Fanning as Rachel Ferrier, the young daughter swept up in an alien invasion, and Tom Cruise as her on-screen father, Ray Ferrier. This dynamic between Fanning’s Rachel and Cruise’s Ray established a powerful narrative, adding emotional depth to the story of survival.
The film’s commercial triumph stands in sharp contrast to its 2025 remake, which, despite using the same title and concept, skipped a theatrical release and premiered solely on streaming platforms. The newer version was poorly received, earning a 4% score on Rotten Tomatoes based on only two favorable reviews out of 49 critics.
Fanning’s Continued Growth in Challenging Roles
Moments like the Thanksgiving celebration on the War of the Worlds set have influenced Fanning throughout her career. After her role as Rachel Ferrier, she took on a diverse range of characters, from her appearances in The Twilight Saga and the animated film Coraline, to her performances in Once Upon A Time…in Hollywood and The Equalizer 3. She also expanded into television, starring in shows such as The Alienist, Ripley, and The Perfect Couple.
Known for embracing complex and demanding roles, Fanning has consistently sought out projects that push her artistic boundaries. Her latest turn in Peacock’s All Her Fault showcases this commitment, portraying a mother whose child vanishes under mysterious circumstances. Co-starring Sarah Snook, the series is a psychological thriller that continues Fanning’s journey into more intense and emotionally charged storytelling.
Impact of Early Lessons on Fanning’s Approach
The values instilled during her early days filming with Steven Spielberg and Tom Cruise continue to influence Fanning’s work ethic and attitude toward colleagues on set. She credits these experiences with shaping her collaborative spirit and her understanding of the importance of gratitude in the entertainment industry. The Dakota Fanning War of the Worlds story not only stands as a touching anecdote from her childhood but also serves as a blueprint for the way she approaches her craft and connects with others in her professional life.
As she continues her career with roles that challenge and deepen her abilities as an actress, Fanning’s recollection of that Thanksgiving gesture remains a testament to the enduring impact of kindness, appreciation, and the shared joy of creating something together. With her latest work in All Her Fault, Dakota Fanning demonstrates that the lessons she learned on iconic sets continue to guide and inspire her today.
