‘Eleanor the Great’ is Scarlett Johansson’s feature directorial debut, starring June Squibb as a 94-year-old woman navigating grief, memory, and new connections after the loss of her best friend.
The film shines most in Squibb’s performance, which is heartfelt, witty, and deeply moving, and in its quiet exploration of intergenerational bonds, particularly with a young journalism student played by Erin Kellyman. Johansson’s direction is intimate and understated, allowing emotional moments to unfold naturally and highlighting the film’s tender rhythm.
Beyond its moving character study, the film thoughtfully explores themes of resilience, legacy, and the stories we choose to carry forward, reminding audiences of the power of memory and human connection across generations. With its blend of humor, heartache, and hope, Eleanor the Great stands as both a touching showcase for Squibb and a graceful directorial beginning for Johansson.
