Scarlett Johansson, celebrated for her dynamic acting range, has now stepped behind the camera. The acclaimed actress made her directorial debut with Eleanor the Great, which premiered in the Un Certain Regard section at the 78th Cannes Film Festival.
A Bold and Emotional Story
The film stars 94-year-old June Squibb as Eleanor, a grieving woman who takes a drastic and unexpected step after losing her best friend. Moving to New York, Eleanor accidentally joins the wrong support group at a Jewish Community Centre. There, she begins to impersonate a Holocaust survivor, adopting the story of her late friend. The film tackles themes of identity, grief, and moral ambiguity, with Johansson unafraid to explore such complex subject matter.
“There’s a lack of empathy in the zeitgeist,” Johansson told the Associated Press, noting how today’s world feels less forgiving. Directing, she revealed, has been a longtime ambition: “Whether it was reading something and thinking, ‘I can envision this,’ or directing out of necessity on set—it’s always been there.”
A Cannes Highlight
Eleanor the Great received a heartfelt five-minute standing ovation at Cannes. A tearful Johansson stood beside Squibb, both visibly moved. The film also stars Chiwetel Ejiofor, Jessica Hecht, and Erin Kellyman.
Reflecting on the emotional reception, Johansson said, “Holding June in that moment… the pureness of her joy was touching for everyone.”
Busy and Bright Future
Just days before Cannes, Johansson hosted the Saturday Night Live season 50 finale. Next, she returns to the big screen in Jurassic World Rebirth, hitting theaters on July 4. It’s a whirlwind season for Johansson, now adding “director” to her already impressive resume.
