Dakota Fanning is making headlines once again, marking her return to prominence with exciting new projects, including her roles in Quentin Tarantino's Once Upon a Time in Hollywood and Netflix’s trending horror film The Watchers.
Fanning's portrayal of Squeaky Fromme, based on the real-life member of the Manson Family, showcases her ability to embody complex characters. Seen alongside Brad Pitt, who plays Cliff Booth, Fanning's character delivers tension and intrigue, showcasing her talent for engaging with rapid-fire dialogue. Reflecting on her experience, Fanning shared, "A huge dream of mine was to work with Quentin Tarantino. I wanted to do it since I saw Kill Bill for the first time. It was just one of those moments... remembering why this is what I’ve chosen to do with my life and why I do love it!"
Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, released to much anticipation, intertwines nostalgia with Tarantino’s unique storytelling, marked by unforgettable appearances and character dynamics. Although Fanning's role is small, her performance leaves a lasting impression, supported by Tarantino's direction, stated to cultivate both familiarity and intimacy on set.
Currently trending on Netflix, Fanning's latest project, The Watchers, directed by Ishana Night Shyamalan, is drawing viewers’ attention, invigorated by its mix of horror and intrigue. The story follows Mina, Fanning's character, who becomes stranded after her car breaks down and seeks shelter with others stalked by mysterious creatures.
Reviews for The Watchers have been mixed, trending negatively with critics noting its 32% on Rotten Tomatoes, attributing it to its ambitious narrative and twist-filled plot. Despite this, audiences have responded more positively, valuing the film's eerie atmosphere and Fanning's multilayered performance.
A critic's perspective highlighted the complexity of the film: "The Watchers’ questionable 32% Rotten Tomatoes score demonstrates simply what critics wanted more of... but the film does succeed in trapping its audience with its twists." This reflects the film’s overall aim to bend the rules by contrasting expectations with reality, showcasing Fanning’s abilities as she explores tensions within her character and the narrative.
The film's supernatural essence resonates with viewers who appreciate slow-burning thrillers, echoing back to Fanning’s roots within the genre. Having started acting young, with iconic roles including Coraline and Hide and Seek, she is now revisiting this territory with impressive flair. The upcoming sequel to The Watchers also hints at renewed interests with fans eager for more from this rising star.
With her career steadily gaining momentum, Fanning is also working on upcoming projects, including collaborations with her sister, Elle Fanning. On January 2, 2025, Dakota was spotted enjoying coffee with producer David Bernard, known for his work on hit shows like The White Lotus. Their coffee outing isn’t their first public appearance together, presenting speculation about potential collaborations.
Fanning's growing list of projects showcases her dedication to her craft and her drive to contribute meaningfully to the film industry. With plans for more horror films and ambitious narratives, Dakota Fanning seems poised not only to reclaim her space but also to assert her role as one of the leading figures within contemporary cinema.
Already gearing up for 2025 with films such as Vicious and the series All Her Fault, Dakota Fanning is undoubtedly aligned with thrilling narratives and horror themes. Her impressive ability to navigate such multifaceted roles grants her prominence among contemporary actresses seeking depth and authenticity. Her performances remind audiences of what she can bring to the screen, sparking interest as her career continues to evolve.