Elle Fanning Advocates for Genre Films’ Recognition at Awards

In a recent interview with the Hollywood Reporter, actress Elle Fanning expressed her belief that genre films deserve the same recognition as traditional cinema. Fanning currently stars in two significant releases: the sci-fi thriller Predator: Badlands and the comedy-drama Sentimental Value. She emphasized the artistic merit of both projects, urging a broader acceptance of genre films in the awards circuit.

Fanning pointed out that recent notable releases have expanded the definition of cinema. She referenced performances such as that of Demi Moore in The Substance, which she believes deserved recognition, alongside the groundbreaking success of Everything Everywhere All at Once. “That was so bold and new,” Fanning remarked, highlighting the film’s innovative approach.

Despite the increasing visibility of genre films, Fanning noted that many still go unnoticed by awards bodies. She mentioned the last entry in the Predator franchise, Prey, and Smile 2, featuring Naomi Scott, as examples of films that received little recognition despite their quality. Fanning hopes that the industry continues to evolve in its appreciation of diverse storytelling.

“By acknowledging these films, we are broadening the conversation,” Fanning stated. “I think that’s important. Just because it’s genre, I don’t think that people should be biased. A film is a film!” She emphasized the need to nurture creativity among emerging directors and artists, advocating for a more inclusive approach to awards considerations.

In discussing her roles in Predator: Badlands, Fanning shared her perspective on the challenges of acting in genre films. “When I go into roles, I don’t look at it differently,” she explained. Fanning plays two characters in the film, which she described as both a significant acting challenge and a physically demanding role.

The actress illustrated the complexity of her performance, stating, “I’m strapped to [co-star Dimitrius Schuster-Koloamatangi] back to back. We’re in wires and harnesses—but then also you have to deliver the comedic timing, the rhythm.” She praised her co-star for his emotional performance, noting, “Just because they covered his face, you can see the emotion through that. That’s because of him, and that’s pretty astonishing.”

Fanning’s enthusiasm for genre films reflects a growing movement within the industry to recognize the artistic value of diverse storytelling. As audiences and critics begin to celebrate these narratives, Fanning remains hopeful about the future of genre films in cinema and their potential place in award discussions.