Elle Fanning’s First Oscar Nomination for Sentimental Value Sparks Industry Buzz
Hollywood actor Elle Fanning has secured her first Academy Award nomination, earning a Best Supporting Actress nod for the critically acclaimed drama Sentimental Value. The 27-year-old star revealed she was caught off guard by the announcement, sharing in interviews that she had not been watching the nominations live after a late night out with her sister Dakota Fanning.
Speaking to entertainment media including The Hollywood Reporter, Fanning described waking up in disbelief and initially struggling to process the news. The film itself emerged as a strong contender this awards season, collecting nine Oscar nominations across major categories, reinforcing its position as a global arthouse favourite.
Sentimental Value, a Norwegian feature that premiered at the Cannes Film Festival last year, has been widely praised for its emotional storytelling and technical craftsmanship. Fanning highlighted the film’s editing — led by Olivier Bugge Coutté — as one of its most significant achievements, noting the editor’s role in shaping performances and narrative rhythm.
The nomination marks a milestone in Fanning’s career, which began when she was a toddler. Over the years, she has transitioned from child roles to leading performances in films such as Maleficent and more recently the sci-fi action project Predator: Badlands. Industry observers see the Oscar recognition as validation of her evolution into a versatile dramatic performer.
Awards analysts say Fanning’s nomination reflects the Academy’s continued interest in international cinema and ensemble-driven storytelling. The strong nomination count for Sentimental Value has positioned the film as one of the season’s most talked-about titles, particularly among critics and festival audiences.
Fans and film commentators have responded positively on social platforms, celebrating the actor’s long career journey and emotional reaction to the nomination. The cast and crew’s close bond — formed during the Cannes run — has also become part of the film’s narrative, adding to its awards-season appeal.
Fanning has emphasised her desire to avoid typecasting despite her association with fantasy franchises. She has repeatedly spoken about choosing varied projects that challenge her creatively, a strategy many industry experts believe contributed to this recognition.
With the Academy Awards approaching, Fanning is expected to participate in campaign events and international press engagements alongside the film’s team. The attention could boost the film’s theatrical and streaming performance, particularly in markets where festival titles rely heavily on awards momentum.
Her upcoming slate suggests a continued mix of genres, reinforcing her commitment to diverse roles. As awards season intensifies, observers will watch whether Sentimental Value converts its nominations into wins, a result that could significantly shape Fanning’s next phase in Hollywood.