Indie Drama The Sun Never Sets Premiered in Anchorage
Director Joe Swanberg captured Alaska landscapes in a new film starring Dakota Fanning and Jake Johnson.
Updated on Sept. 22, 2026 in Documentary
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Director Joe Swanberg has released the indie drama film The Sun Never Sets, which follows a construction worker navigating the dating scene in Anchorage. The production utilized local landscapes across the state for the film.
Why it matters
The project represents a shift in setting from the Pacific Northwest to Alaska to capture authentic local environments. Producer Ashleigh Snead pushed for the Alaskan location to ensure the film maintained a specific visual landscape.
The production was shot on 35mm film and required two scouting missions to Anchorage to finalize location selections.
The players
Joe Swanberg
He is an American filmmaker known for his work in the independent film movement.
Dakota Fanning
She is an acclaimed actress who gained prominence for her roles in major motion pictures.
Jake Johnson
He is a well-known actor and comedian recognized for his work in film and television.
Ashleigh Snead
She serves as a professional film producer who oversaw the development of the project.
The details
The film stars Dakota Fanning and Jake Johnson, with production teams utilizing public spaces and local businesses throughout the area. Key filming sites included Kincaid Park, the Turnagain Arm, and Whittier to provide a realistic backdrop for the lead character.
Timeline
Production filmed in Alaska during the spring of 2025.
The film premiered in Anchorage in September 2026.
Industry Dynamics
The film aligns with efforts by the Alaska Filming Initiative to lobby for the reinstatement of the Alaska state film tax credit. This shift suggests a move toward incentivizing local production to compete with regions offering established tax subsidies.
Local residents can view the film following its recent premiere in Anchorage. The production of this movie within the community highlights the ongoing interest in utilizing regional landmarks for commercial cinema.
The takeaway
Filmmakers are increasingly looking toward remote, authentic settings to distinguish their projects from traditional Hollywood studio locations. This trend demonstrates how regional visual identity can become a central component of an independent film's marketing strategy.
Further reading
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