Eleanor the Great: Scarlett Johansson’s Poignant Directorial Debut Shines at Cannes

Introduction

Scarlett Johansson’s highly anticipated directorial debut, Eleanor the Great, has quickly become a talking point following its world premiere at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival. Starring veteran actress June Squibb, the film brings forward a story rich in humor, grief, and personal reinvention. With its blend of compelling performances and a nuanced look at Jewish identity and forgiveness, it's no wonder this film is generating buzz in both critical and popular circles.

The Story and Its Impact

Eleanor the Great centers around Eleanor Morgenstein, a spry 94-year-old Floridian played by June Squibb. In the wake of her lifelong friend's death, Eleanor navigates life changes by moving to New York City to live with her daughter and grandson. The journey leads her to an unexpected friendship with a young woman grappling with her own losses. Through shared experiences, the film explores themes of resilience, community, and the need for forgiveness. Johansson herself describes the work as "a movie about Jewish identity, about friendship, but really about forgiveness. Something I think we all need a lot more of nowadays."

Standout Performances

June Squibb commands the screen in what many critics call her showiest role to date. Her performance as Eleanor is both fiercely independent and layered with emotion. Erin Kellyman stands out as well, delivering a heartfelt portrayal that anchors the film's emotional beats. According to The Hollywood Reporter, the pairing of Squibb and Kellyman brought both "cheers and quite a few tears" to Cannes, signaling a possible Oscar nomination for Squibb following her breakout role in Thelma last year.

Critical Response and Cannes Reception

The Cannes crowd responded warmly to Eleanor the Great, embracing its dramedy and the authentic vulnerability at its core. Sony Pictures Classics started its Oscar campaign in style, highlighting Johansson's promising transition from actress to director. Yet the film has sparked some debate among critics. In a detailed Variety review, Owen Gleiberman applauds Squibb's sharp comedic timing but questions the believability of some plot elements. He notes that while the script packs plenty of laughs and poignant moments, its tonal shifts may not always land perfectly. Still, the overall consensus underscores the film’s "wild card" energy—thanks largely to Squibb's magnetic presence.

A Film with Timely Themes

By addressing issues of grief, family connections, and the stories we tell to navigate loss, Eleanor the Great resonates deeply with contemporary audiences. It also raises powerful questions about identity and truth, especially as Eleanor blurs the line between her own memories and those of her late friend. For a closer look at Cannes’ hottest trends and other standout moments, you can view styles and scenes from the festival as covered by WWD.

Conclusion

Eleanor the Great is more than just a touching dramedy; it is a testament to the enduring power of reinvention and empathy. Scarlett Johansson’s first feature as director, alongside the formidable June Squibb, invites viewers to reflect on the importance of forgiveness and the complexity of personal identity. Whether you are a fan of heartfelt comedies or looking for a film that sparks meaningful discussion, this is one cinematic journey you won’t want to miss. To dive deeper into the film’s reception and critical perspectives, see Variety’s full review and The Hollywood Reporter’s Cannes premiere coverage.