Takeaways:
- Dakota Fanning reflects on her journey from a “child actor” to a seasoned performer with a two-decade-long career.
- She shares insights on the unique freedom she feels on set and her experience directing a short film.
- Her story highlights the challenges and rewards of a lifelong commitment to acting.
Dakota Fanning’s career is a testament to her resilience and versatility. Despite having been in the public eye for over two decades, Fanning, now 30, has consistently evolved as an actor. From starring in I Am Sam at age seven to appearing in major projects like War of the Worlds, Coraline, Twilight, Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, and the Netflix hit The Perfect Couple, her body of work showcases an impressive range.
In a recent conversation with IndieWire, Fanning opened up about her journey, the pressures of being labeled a “child actor,” and the creative insights she gained from stepping behind the camera to direct.
Rejecting the “Child Actor” Label
Fanning’s breakout role in I Am Sam earned her the distinction of being the youngest nominee in Screen Actors Guild history. However, she has always disliked the term “child actor.” She explains, “I sort of always resented ‘child actor.’ I was like, ‘I can’t work as many hours just because I’m small, but I’m doing the same thing as all the other actors.’”
Unlike many young performers, Fanning felt fortunate to work with professionals who treated her with respect. She reflects, “I was treated with kindness and respect and care. I was a young person doing a job that not all young people do.” This early experience shaped her approach to her craft and her ability to thrive in a demanding industry.
Finding Freedom on Set
For Fanning, being on set offers a unique sense of liberation. She explains, “I achieve a state of calm and flow when I’m working that I have never been able to necessarily achieve anywhere else.” In an era dominated by constant digital connectivity, Fanning values the opportunity to disconnect. “I don’t bring my phone on set,” she shares. “If people really need to get in touch with me, they know who to call. It’s a freedom that I feel I have never felt anywhere else in my life.”
Her commitment to being fully present in her work is a rare quality in today’s fast-paced world. This focus not only enhances her performance but also reinforces her deep passion for acting.
Lessons from Directing
In 2018, Fanning took on a new challenge by directing the short film Hello Apartment. Initially hesitant about the post-production process, she found it to be a surprising source of enjoyment. “It’s something as an actor that you’re really not involved in,” she notes. “I loved that process so much. That was one of the biggest surprises for me about that whole experience.”
Directing also gave her a fresh perspective on acting. “It gave me insight that I’ve brought with me as an actor since,” she says. “Seeing what you can create in the editing room gave me peace as an actor: Everything doesn’t always have to be perfect.”
Though she doubts she’ll direct again soon, the experience broadened her understanding of storytelling and reinforced her appreciation for collaboration in filmmaking.
Dakota Fanning: A Career in Progress
From her earliest roles to her most recent projects, Fanning’s journey reflects a commitment to growth and authenticity. By rejecting limiting labels and embracing new challenges, she continues to inspire aspiring actors and filmmakers alike. Whether in front of or behind the camera, Fanning’s dedication to her craft serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative power of storytelling.
