Over the last five years, Elle Fanning, only 21, became an independent cinema go-to, a staple that worked with production companies like IFC Films and A24. A popular child actor partially due to the success of “Super 8,” Fanning recently worked on critical indie hits like “20th Century Women” and “Teen Spirit.”
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Fanning is teaming up with director Brett Haley (“Hearts Beat Loud”) for her new Netflix film and young adult adaptation “All The Bright Places.” Production for the film started back in 2014, with Fanning being the first actor linked to the movie, joined soon by Justice Smith (“Detective Pikachu”) playing opposite her. The two young actors will be diving into the world of adaptations in similar veins playing upon illness, with the likes of several of John Green’s novels including“Fault In Our Stars” and more recent films like “Five Feet Apart.”
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Here’s the official synopsis:
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Based on the internationally bestselling novel by Jennifer Niven, All The Bright Places tells the story of Violet Markey (Elle Fanning) and Theodore Finch (Justice Smith), who meet and change each other’s lives forever. As they struggle with the emotional and physical scars of their past, they come together, discovering that even the smallest places and moments can mean something. This compelling drama provides a refreshing and human take on the experience of mental illness, its impact on relationships, as well as the beauty and lasting impact of young love.
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With the power of Netflix behind the film, “All The Bright Places” has the backing it needs to succeed. Teen-centric series and movies have flourished on the streaming service since its inception, with several of their most popular shows filling this youth gap.
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Haley’s recent filmography even suggests that a steady hand will be guiding the ship, and with Fanning involved, the film will likely have a decent-sized audience. If critics get behind the story, it could reach the level of Green’s adaptations, giving author-turned-screenwriter Jennifer Niven a loyal fan base.
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Starring Fanning and Smith with Haley directing, “All The Bright Places” will be released on February 28, 2020, on Netflix.