Full Breakdown
Joe Swanberg Returns with Alaska-Set Romance “The Sun Never Sets”
7/10/2026, 1:51:45 PM
Release Details
Joe Swanberg’s first feature in seven years, the romantic-triangle drama “The Sun Never Sets,” opens in limited theaters on Friday, August 28 through Independent Film Company and expands nationwide on Friday, September 4. The film follows Wendy (Dakota Fanning), who is torn between her older, divorced boyfriend Jack (Jake Johnson) and her ex-boyfriend Chuck (Cory Michael Smith) while the Alaskan landscape looms as a central element.
Swanberg’s Return to Feature Filmmaking
After directing the Netflix comedy “Win It All” (2017) and the series “Easy” (2016-2019), Swanberg paused feature work during the pandemic and after his two-decade marriage to filmmaker Kris Rey ended. He shifted to television directing, a subscription-based video store in Chicago, and occasional acting. “This story is very personal, and draws from several autobiographical elements of my life” Swanberg explained, noting that the project marks his comeback to the SXSW Film and TV Festival circuit.
Cast and Production Highlights
The ensemble includes Dakota Fanning, Jake Johnson, and Cory Michael Smith, with supporting roles for Debby Ryan, Anna Konkle, and Karley Sciortino. Filming took place on location in Alaska, which the creators describe as “almost the most important character in the film.” Johnson and Fanning shared a rental car and explored glaciers together, fostering an “intimate bond” that informed their on-screen chemistry. A cameo by Lamorne Morris, Johnson’s former “New Girl” co-star, appears at Johnson’s suggestion.
Official Statements
Swanberg said the film “draws from several autobiographical elements of my life,” emphasizing the emotional stakes of the love triangle. Fanning highlighted Alaska’s influence, stating that without the landscape the movie would be “completely different.” Johnson described the remote setting as “essential” and credited the shared Alaska experience for deepening his connection with Fanning.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Alaska is almost the most important character in the film,” — Dakota Fanning
- “This story is very personal, and draws from several autobiographical elements of my life,” — Joe Swanberg
- “Lamorne is my family. Not my chosen family. But my family,” — Jake Johnson
- “She was a huge part of my Alaska experience. We saw glaciers together and were lucky enough to be there during Salmon Season.” — Jake Johnson
The film’s release positions Swanberg back into feature territory, pairing his mumblecore sensibility with a visually striking Alaskan backdrop.
