Scarlett Johansson’s directorial debut, Eleanor the Great, premiered to a mixed critical reception ahead of its September 26 theatrical release. The film, scripted by Tory Kamen, follows the story of Eleanor Morgenstein, a 94-year-old woman who returns to New York City after losing her best friend and unexpectedly bonds with a 19-year-old college student, blending themes of grief and resilience.
The cast features Oscar-nominated June Squibb in the lead role, alongside Erin Kellyman, Emmy nominee Jessica Hecht, Oscar nominee Chiwetel Ejiofor, Rita Zohar, Will Price, and Greg Kaston. Eleanor the Great first screened at the Cannes Film Festival in May within the Un Certain Regard section and appeared at the Toronto International Film Festival earlier this month.
Understanding Eleanor the Great’s Rotten Tomatoes Reception
Eleanor the Great currently holds a 67% critics score on Rotten Tomatoes, reflecting a predominantly positive but divided reaction to Johansson’s first outing as a director. Rachel Labonte of ScreenRant commented,
“June Squibb gives a standout performance in Scarlett Johansson’s melancholy, conventional directorial debut… Eleanor the Great is a solid directorial debut for Scarlett Johansson, but its best element is June Squibb’s wonderfully multifaceted performance.”
Labonte’s review highlights Squibb’s role as the film’s emotional core amid its traditional storytelling approach.
The film’s praise largely centers on Johansson’s sincere direction and Squibb’s portrayal, which many find tender and moving, capturing themes such as grief, forgiveness, and tenacity. Several critics suggest that Squibb’s performance could gain awards attention, while others criticize the screenplay for its uneven tone and its treatment of Holocaust-related subject matter, describing some moments as overly sentimental or insensitive.
Insights on Johansson’s First Feature Film
Though Eleanor the Great exhibits some of the typical flaws seen in a director’s debut, June Squibb’s commanding performance elevates the film by adding warmth and depth. At 94, Squibb brings humor and resilience that often overshadow the film’s less polished elements, crafting a narrative that resonates emotionally despite its unevenness.
Scarlett Johansson, known for her distinguished acting career and two Oscar nominations for Marriage Story and Jojo Rabbit in 2020, now steps behind the camera with this heartfelt project. Variety has already identified Squibb as a potential contender for the Best Actress category in the 2025 awards season, signaling promise for the film’s impact and Johansson’s emerging directorial path.
The Film’s Key Players and Setting
Eleanor the Great stars June Squibb as Eleanor Morgenstein, the elderly woman whose journey shapes the story, and Erin Kellyman as Nina, the young college student who forms an unlikely friendship with her. The narrative moves between Florida, where Eleanor previously lived, and New York City, where she rebuilds her life. Supporting roles include performances by Jessica Hecht, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Rita Zohar, and Greg Kaston, among others.
