Joe Swanberg returns with Alaskan-set drama ‘The Sun Never Sets’

Filmmaker Joe Swanberg returns to feature films with ‘The Sun Never Sets’, his first major project in six years. Shot on 35mm, the film is set in Anchorage, Alaska, and explores complex human relationships through a romantic drama lens.

The story follows Wendy (Dakota Fanning), a construction worker, and her partner Jack (Jake Johnson), a divorced father of two. The central conflict arises when Jack suggests a six-month break from their relationship, fearing that Wendy might eventually regret not having marriage or children of her own. This decision introduces a romantic triangle when Wendy’s ex, Chuck (Cory Michael Smith), re-enters her life.

The film marks a continuation of Swanberg’s career of stylistic variety, following previous works like ‘Drinking Buddies’ and the Netflix series ‘Easy’. It is noted for its use of the Alaskan landscape and its focus on the messy, flawed nature of interpersonal connections.