Scarlett Johansson makes her directorial debut with “Eleanor the Great“, a heartfelt drama arriving in theaters September 26 via Sony Pictures Classics. The film, which earned a five-minute standing ovation at the Cannes Film Festival, stars June Squibb as a 90-year-old woman navigating grief, friendship, and forgiveness after the death of her closest friend.
“Eleanor The Great” Premise
The story follows Eleanor as she rediscovers joy and purpose, offering a tender look at aging, healing, and the power of connection. Written by Tory Kamen, the film also features Chiwetel Ejiofor, Jessica Hecht, and Erin Kellyman.
For Johansson, who also produced the film, the project is deeply personal. She’s called it a labor of love and emphasized the importance of independent filmmaking: “No one’s doing it for the money—surprise, surprise.”
Backed by Sony Pictures Classics and TriStar, the film is poised for a strong theatrical run, with early critical buzz and talk of awards potential. With a moving script, emotional performances, and Johansson’s clear vision behind the camera, Eleanor the Great is shaping up to be one of the fall’s must-see films.
