Edible films and coatings based on natural ingredients attract much interest as an efficient and safe approach for enhancement of quality and shelf-life of agricultural food products. Advanced edible films and coatings can also serve as a matrix for the delivery of active agents such as natural antioxidants and antimicrobials, nutraceuticals, antibrowning agents, and natural flavor or aroma compounds. For this purpose, nanotechnology-based approaches can be exploited. This review briefly describes utilization of different nanotechnology methods such as nanoemulsions, nanoparticles, and Layer-by-Layer techniques for the formation of active edible films and coatings. The review also contains a discussion of the raw matrix materials and bioactive components that are used to form active edible films and coatings. The review does not cover active films and coatings that are based on inedible materials.