Scarlett Johansson has openly credited the late Robert Redford as a key inspiration behind her ambition to become a film director. Johansson first encountered Redford’s guiding influence during the making of the 1998 film The Horse Whisperer, where she worked alongside the Oscar-winning actor and director at the young age of 12. Now, nearly three decades later, Johansson prepares to make her directorial debut with Eleanor the Great, set for release on Friday, September 26.
Early Encouragement on the Set of “The Horse Whisperer”
Growing up on the set of The Horse Whisperer, Johansson witnessed Redford’s commanding presence as both director and co-star. She described watching him manage complex scenes and intimate moments with equal care, which sparked her fascination with directing. Speaking on The Late Show With Stephen Colbert on September 22, Johansson recalled,
“It was when I was working with Bob, I remember seeing him on the set. He would have those intimate conversations with me, and then he would be coordinating a huge set scene … it was like, ‘That job seems pretty interesting. I’d like to do that job some day.’”
Johansson also praised Redford’s character, calling him
a warm, kind, patient, generous, wonderful man.
How Robert Redford’s Approach Shaped Johansson’s Understanding of Filmmaking
Johansson highlighted the supportive environment Redford created for her as a young actor. She explained the way he personally guided her through each scene, detailing the emotional and narrative beats her character was experiencing. She said,
“He would take so much time with me every day. He was so warm, and we had such a special relationship in the film — the characters do — where he actually therapizes my character. He, in real life, had that persona. Just so calm and kind and patient. He would talk me through the scene. Every scene we’d do, he’d talk me through what my character had been through up until that point, and it was like he had all the time to do that.”
This experience was transformative for Johansson, who reflected,
“I had a complete understanding of, ‘Oh, this is actually a craft and something you get better at and understand more the more you put into it.’ That was all because of Bob, Mr. Redford.”
Remembering Robert Redford’s Life and Legacy
Robert Redford passed away peacefully at his home in Provo, Utah, on September 16 at the age of 89, with his publicist Cindi Berger confirming he died in his sleep. Berger remarked that he was
“the place he loved, surrounded by those he loved.”
The loss of Redford triggered numerous heartfelt tributes from his peers and collaborators, including Johansson and Jane Fonda.
Johansson expressed deep gratitude for the atmosphere Redford fostered on set, telling People,
“Every day before each scene, he would take the time to sit with me and walk me through all of the beats that led my character up until that particular point in the story. No matter the reality of the day’s rush, I always felt he had all the time in the world for our work. Bob created an environment on set that was calm and precious; a place where actors could make discoveries. He was patient and warm and kind.”
Jane Fonda, a longtime collaborator of Redford’s, shared a statement with Us Weekly on September 16:
“It hit me hard this morning when I read that Bob was gone. I can’t stop crying. He meant a lot to me and was a beautiful person in every way. He stood for an America we have to keep fighting for.”
Looking Ahead: Scarlett Johansson’s Directorial Debut and Continuing Impact
Scarlett Johansson’s announcement of her feature film directorial debut marks a significant milestone influenced by the mentorship and example set by Robert Redford. As Eleanor the Great approaches its theatrical release, Johansson’s journey from a young actress inspired by Redford’s leadership to a filmmaker in her own right embodies the lasting legacy of his dedication to the craft. This connection underscores how vital mentorship and patience are in the creative process, promising to inspire a new generation of artists behind the camera.
