At the 2025 Toronto International Film Festival, Scarlett Johansson made a striking entrance as a filmmaker with her directorial debut, Eleanor the Great. This film, centered around a 94-year-old protagonist, showcases Johansson’s bold choice to tell a story led by an elderly actress rather than stepping in front of the camera herself. The film’s blend of humor and emotional depth immediately caught the attention of audiences, highlighting Johansson’s impressive transition from acclaimed actress to skilled director.
Plot Follows Eleanor Morgenstein’s Unexpected Journey
The story revolves around Eleanor Morgenstein, played by June Squibb, a 94-year-old woman living in Florida with her close friend Bessie, portrayed by Rita Zohar. Following Bessie’s death, Eleanor relocates to New York City to live with her daughter Lisa (Jessica Hecht) and grandson Max (Will Price). Lisa arranges for Eleanor to attend a music class at the Manhattan Jewish Community Center, but Eleanor initially resists the idea. A chance encounter leads her to join a Holocaust survivors’ support group, where she shares a story belonging not to her, but to her late friend Bessie.
Character Dynamics and Emotional Subplots
Among the support group attendees is Nina, a journalism student played by Erin Kellyman, who becomes fascinated with Eleanor’s story and seeks to feature her. Although Eleanor initially declines, a friendship grows between them. Nina’s subplot grapples with her own personal loss and a strained relationship with her father, Roger, portrayed by Chiwetel Ejiofor. The nuanced interactions between these characters add layers of emotional complexity to the film, making it more than a simple narrative about aging or memory.
Strong Performances Illuminate Complex Characters
June Squibb delivers a standout performance as Eleanor, skillfully blending sharp wit with vulnerability. Her ability to portray a brusque, often biting character who nonetheless reveals tenderness in her relationships is central to the film’s effectiveness. The chemistry between Squibb and Rita Zohar brings warmth and authenticity to their years-long friendship. Erin Kellyman’s portrayal of Nina complements Squibb’s Eleanor well, and Chiwetel Ejiofor adds depth in his emotionally charged role. Supporting roles by Jessica Hecht, Will Price, Greg Kaston, and Stephen Singer round out a solid ensemble cast.
Johansson’s Direction Balances Humor with Heartfelt Drama
Working from Tory Kamen’s screenplay, Scarlett Johansson demonstrates a confident directorial hand. The script’s subtle humor and cultural nuances, especially those recognizable to New Yorkers and Jewish audiences, provide a rich texture. Johansson’s restrained yet elegant visual style allows the story’s emotional beats to resonate without distraction. Her thoughtful approach in addressing the moral complexities of Eleanor’s storytelling reveals a maturity as a filmmaker that suggests continuing growth in her directing career.
‘Eleanor the Great’ Offers a Unique Cinematic Experience
The film impresses with its ability to blend comedic moments and poignant drama seamlessly, delivering a narrative that feels authentic and compelling. Scarlett Johansson’s directorial debut is notable not only for its narrative risks but also for its execution, marking it as one of the standout films of the year. The reception at TIFF signals strong interest in the film’s upcoming theatrical release and heightened anticipation for further projects from Johansson behind the camera.
“The funniest scenes are when she cuts someone down.”
—Reviewer
“Johansson stages everything simply yet elegantly, showcasing a skill that suggests her best is yet to come.”
—Reviewer
“Whether at TIFF or in theaters soon, it’s a film with a generosity of character and ability to balance comedy and drama that so few works can pull off.”
—Reviewer
