Dakota Fanning’s Latest Netflix Movie: A Must-See That Highlights Her Iconic Horror Performance from 16 Years Ago

Dakota Fanning’s newest horror film, The Watchers, has quickly garnered attention on Netflix. This cinematic piece serves as an ideal opportunity to revisit a notable animated horror classic from 2009. Directed by Ishana Night Shyamalan, in her debut at the helm, the film features Fanning in the role of Mina, a young woman whose trip to Ireland leads her into a dense forest filled with enigmatic creatures that emerge at night. In her quest for safety, Mina becomes trapped in a bunker alongside three strangers, all long-term prisoners, and must utilize her wits to survive.

The film is produced by M. Night Shyamalan, known for his signature twist endings, which have earned both acclaim and criticism throughout his career. His daughter, Ishana, inherits this characteristic storytelling technique in her first directorial venture. Although the film received mixed reviews upon its initial release, it has found remarkable success on Netflix, clinching a spot among the top ten most-watched films.

The Watchers’ Reception Highlights Coraline as Dakota Fanning’s Best Horror Film

Coraline: A 2009 Classic

Critics have praised Dakota Fanning’s portrayal of Mina in The Watchers, showcasing her talent in the horror genre. This performance parallels her role in the stop-motion animated horror film, Coraline, which also debuted in 2009. In Coraline, a young girl navigates the challenges of moving to a new home until she discovers a hidden door leading to an alternate world. Initially, this world appears idyllic, but Coraline quickly unravels its darker, sinister truths and must devise an escape plan.

The film’s recent re-release in 2024 saw it gross over $52 million, reaffirming its enduring popularity. Critically acclaimed upon its original launch, Coraline became a landmark film in the stop-motion genre, noted for its striking visuals, compelling soundtrack, and intricate screenplay. It earned an Oscar nomination for Best Animated Feature and secured three Annie Awards in 2010. Today, Coraline is celebrated as one of the finest stop-motion horror films, reaffirmed by its significant box office returns during special re-releases marking its 15th anniversary. Recent critiques label it a “gateway horror”classic, etching its place as Dakota Fanning’s highest-rated horror endeavor.

Dakota Fanning’s The Watchers: A Better Horror Than Its Ratings Suggest

A Unique Concept Underpins The Watchers

Despite the mixed reception The Watchers encountered upon its debut, achieving only a 32% critical score and a 50% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes, there are elements worth celebrating. Critics noted a tendency for the film to stretch itself thin with its ambitious storytelling and dialogue, yet the representation of Irish mythology and the supernatural was commendable. Ishana Night Shyamalan received recognition for her deft direction and the surprising character arcs throughout the film.

Dakota Fanning’s gripping performance as Mina drives the narrative to a thrilling conclusion, showcasing her potential for a future in the horror genre. While The Watchers may not rank at the top of horror lists, it encourages audiences to reflect on Fanning’s earlier work and the chilling success she achieved sixteen years prior with Coraline.

Sources: Box Office Mojo, Rotten Tomatoes