Elle Fanning Breaks Cannes Record With Sentimental Value – A Career-Defining Moment
At just 27 years old, Elle Fanning has already achieved a milestone no other actor can match. With the premiere of her latest movie Sentimental Value at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival, Fanning not only impressed critics, but also set a historic record that highlights her growing influence in the film industry.
A 20-Year Career That Keeps Rising
Starting her career at the age of 2, Elle Fanning made her debut portraying the younger version of her sister Dakota Fanning’s character in I Am Sam. From early appearances in Daddy Day Care and Babel to her first starring role in Phoebe in Wonderland (2008), Fanning has shown remarkable versatility. Her breakout came in 2011 with Super 8, and she’s since built a diverse resume, starring in acclaimed films and TV shows like The Great and A Complete Unknown.
Sentimental Value Sets New Cannes Standing Ovation Record
Elle Fanning’s latest film, Sentimental Value, directed by Joachim Trier, stole the spotlight at Cannes 2025. The dramedy, which stars Fanning alongside Renate Reinsve and Stellan Skarsgård, explores themes of family, nostalgia, and storytelling. It received glowing reviews, including a perfect 10/10 rating from ScreenRant.
But what truly set Sentimental Value apart was its reception in the theater — a record-breaking 19-minute standing ovation, the longest of the entire festival. This feat places it among the top three longest standing ovations in Cannes history, behind only Pan’s Labyrinth (2006) and Fahrenheit 9/11.
Elle Fanning: The Only Actor With Two Cannes Ovation Records
This isn’t Fanning’s first time captivating Cannes audiences. Her 2016 film The Neon Demon earned a 17-minute ovation, placing fifth in the all-time Cannes rankings. With Sentimental Value now ranked third, Elle Fanning becomes the only actor ever to appear in two of the top five longest Cannes ovations—once as a lead and once in a supporting role.
This accomplishment speaks not only to the quality of the films she selects, but also to her emotional presence on screen and growing artistic reputation.
What’s Next for Elle Fanning?
With Sentimental Value generating awards-season buzz, Elle Fanning’s star power is only growing. While the film didn’t win the Palme d’Or (which went to It Was Just an Accident), its success at Cannes is expected to give it momentum heading into Oscar season.
In addition, Fanning is expanding her filmography with major upcoming projects. She’s set to appear in the highly anticipated Predator: Badlands, releasing in November 2025, and has also been cast in The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping, a prequel that is already building massive hype.
These roles not only showcase her range and versatility, but also position her as one of the most bankable and respected actresses of her generation.
Final Thoughts
Elle Fanning may not always be mentioned in the same breath as Hollywood’s biggest names, but her track record—and now her historic Cannes record—speaks for itself. With Sentimental Value, she has proven once again that her dedication to meaningful cinema and powerful performances sets her apart in the industry.
Whether she’s leading a blockbuster or starring in an art-house masterpiece, Elle Fanning is a name to watch—and remember.
📌 Source: screenrant.com
