Scarlett Johansson made her directorial debut with the film Eleanor the Great at the 2025 Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) on September 7 in Toronto, Canada. The film, which holds significant spotlight this year, features Johansson’s thoughtful storytelling and stars June Squibb, Erin Kellyman, and Chiwetel Ejiofor.
Details About the Film and Its Premiere
The movie is scheduled for its North American premiere at TIFF, with several screenings planned throughout the festival week. Attendees also saw Johansson and the cast gather the night prior for the 2025 Sony Pictures Classics TIFF Celebration Dinner. Both group and individual portraits of the team were taken at the Getty Images Portrait Studio, an event presented by IMDb and IMDbPro.
Plot Overview of ‘Eleanor the Great’
The story centers on Eleanor Morgenstein, who, after suffering a profound personal loss, moves from Florida to New York City to live with her daughter and grandson. Despite her intentions to rebuild family connections, Eleanor feels increasingly isolated. Unexpectedly, she stumbles upon a support group where she doesn’t quite fit, unveiling a narrative that thrusts her into unanticipated attention. A connection then forms between her and a young journalism student who sees Eleanor as both a friend and a mentor. As the relationship intensifies, Eleanor faces difficult truths she must address.
“Eleanor Morgenstein has always stayed engaged and connected to the people around her. So, after a devastating loss, she relocates from Florida to New York City to live with her daughter and grandson, hoping to reconnect with her family. Instead, she feels even more adrift and invisible. One day she unknowingly wanders into a support group where she doesn’t quite belong, only to reveal a story that unwittingly brings her a level of attention she did not intend. Eleanor finds herself caught up in the enlivening consequences as a young journalism student pursues her as a friend and mentor. When things go too far, Eleanor must confront the truth.”
—Official Synopsis
Upcoming Release and Audience Anticipation
Eleanor the Great is set for theatrical release on September 26. The film’s debut at TIFF positions it as a highly anticipated release, especially marking a new chapter in Scarlett Johansson’s career as a director. The film’s exploration of loss, connection, and unexpected relationships ties into contemporary themes that resonate with audiences.
