Denzel Washington spoke on TV about being in complete awe of Dakota Fanning’s acting ability. He said that the only other actor he’s ever worked with that impressed him that much was Gene Hackman.
Furthermore, as I understand it, Dakota Fanning is not only an enormously talented actress at a young age, she is also a sweet kid who has yet to develop a diva-esque temperment – a rare quality in Hollywood child stars.
I just saw I am Sam the other day and pretty much the same idea occured to me as well. Finding a good child actor isn’t easy - so when they find one thats half decent (and in I am Sam, she was as good as a child actor can be), I think the studios tend to use them for other movies.
Given that she can act (despite what some dopers think) studios doubtless would rather get her than take a risk on some random child actor. I have a sneaking suspicion that child actors tend to be very hit-or-miss, so if you find one that can turn in a solid performance every time, it’s a good thing.
I like her reaction shot in the War of the Worlds trailer. She actually looks scared. Really scared. Nicely done.
I’ve read that she’s has an impressive memory, as well. Not having to coach a child actor through their lines has to speed up production a significant amount.