Dakota Fanning and Jake Johnson recently shed light on their collaborative venture, 'The Sun Never Sets,' a dramedy making its debut at the SXSW festival. This film marks a significant departure for director Joe Swanberg, moving away from his usual Chicago backdrop to the unique setting of Anchorage, Alaska. The actors discussed the film's improvisational nature, the personal stories that inspired its narrative, and the distinct atmosphere of filming in a location where daylight persists late into the night. Their conversation highlights the creative evolution of Swanberg's work and the unconventional approach taken by the cast and crew to bring this story to life.
The genesis of 'The Sun Never Sets' emerged from director Joe Swanberg's personal experiences, which he envisioned as a compelling cinematic narrative. Jake Johnson, a frequent collaborator with Swanberg, was immediately on board, recognizing the potential for a fresh direction after their previous Chicago-centric projects. The decision to film in Anchorage, Alaska, was a conscious effort to break new ground and offer a distinct feel, a stark contrast to their earlier work like 2013's 'Drinking Buddies.'
Dakota Fanning joined the project after being suggested by Johnson's agent, and her involvement proved pivotal. Fanning expressed her initial intrigue and eventual comfort with the film's unique production style, which heavily incorporated improvisation. Despite the unconventional methods, she noted that the process always maintained a clear direction, ensuring that the actors understood the narrative arc. Fanning's own experiences as a 31-year-old navigating contemporary dating dynamics informed her portrayal of Wendy, the film's central character, who finds herself in a complex romantic entanglement between her live-in boyfriend and a returning ex.
The Alaskan setting itself played a significant role in shaping the film's aesthetic and narrative. Fanning, drawn to the opportunity to visit Alaska, embraced the continuous daylight of the summer months, while Johnson found the perpetual brightness disorienting, noting the unusual sight of late-night activities under what appeared to be midday sun. This distinctive environmental factor added an authentic layer to the film's atmosphere, influencing scenes and character interactions. Fanning also highlighted the gender dynamics observed in Alaska, where a woman working on a construction site, like her character Wendy, was a common and unremarkable sight, a stark contrast to expectations in other locales.
Johnson emphasized the shift in approach for 'The Sun Never Sets' compared to Swanberg's earlier independent films. While past projects celebrated the "punk rock" ethos of minimal budgets and challenging Hollywood's overspending, this film sought to elevate Swanberg's craft with more financial backing. Yet, Fanning still felt the underlying "punk rock" spirit persisted, indicating a continued commitment to creative freedom despite increased resources. Both actors articulated their definition of success for the film not in box office numbers, but in the ability to create art on their own terms, connecting deeply with an audience who appreciates their unique vision.