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Joe Swanberg’s The Sun Never Sets Premieres at SXSW to Split Early Reviews

Early reviews spotlight Dakota Fanning and polished Alaska visuals as the film seeks U.S. distribution.

Overview

  • Dakota Fanning leads the Alaska-set romantic drama as Wendy, whose love life is unsettled by an age-gap partner’s proposed break and a resurfacing ex.
  • Critics single out Fanning’s performance, with Jake Johnson and Cory Michael Smith earning notice for chemistry that grounds the central triangle.
  • Reviewers describe Swanberg’s loose, improvisational method paired with upgraded production values, including Anchorage locations shot on 35mm.
  • IndieWire offers strong praise and an A- grade, citing a mature, satisfying film, while The Hollywood Reporter finds the narrative repetitive despite vivid characters and setting.
  • The film premiered in SXSW’s Narrative Spotlight, runs 1 hour 42 minutes, and is currently seeking U.S. distribution with a cast that also features Debby Ryan and Anna Konkle.