Scarlett Johansson made a striking entrance as a first-time director, premiering her film Eleanor the Great in New York City on September 24, ahead of its official release on September 26. At the screening event, Johansson wore a bold white power suit layered over a lace bodysuit, embracing her new role behind the camera while embodying her signature star power.
The event marked a rare public outing for Johansson and her husband, comedian Colin Jost. Held at The Cinema Society in New York City, the screening showcased Johansson’s transition from actress to director. She appeared in a tailored white Chloé suit featuring structured shoulder pads and wide-legged trousers, complemented by an eye-catching David Webb pendant with aquamarine and moonstone details. The lingerie-inspired lace bodysuit she wore underneath added an edgy contrast to the sophisticated look.
A Standing Ovation at Cannes Set the Stage
Eleanor the Great first premiered earlier this year at the Cannes Film Festival, where it earned a five-minute standing ovation from attendees. Johansson has spoken about how directing this film felt perfectly timed in her career. She shared with CBS News that directing has long been an aspiration dating back to her childhood, revealing that she imagined acting in her younger years before moving into directing as an adult.
“I think I thought that I would act until I was an adult, and then I would direct, and then…life had other plans for me,”
Johansson said.
“I think I got to be in my early 20s, and I was curious about getting better at that job, and so I didn’t—I think it all happened at the right time. I don’t think I could have directed this when I was 25.”
Balancing Parenthood and Career Demands
As Johansson embraces directing, she also navigates the complexities of motherhood alongside her husband Colin Jost. She opened up about managing the delicate balance between professional and family life, especially with two young children at home.
“We have two wonderful babysitters that are helping us out,”
Johansson acknowledged.
“So, shout out to them. Really, truly couldn’t do it without help. It’s hard to balance between two busy schedules, but we do as much as we can.”
Discussing the challenges of keeping a routine for her children, she explained, My kids are young, and added,
“They thrive on a routine. So, you try to make a routine possible. And sometimes it means that you’re not doing everything. You feel guilty that you’re missing certain elements of work that you should be responsible for, and then you’re home, and when you’re at work you feel like you’re missing some elements of parenting that you should be responsible for. So there’s always that.”
She emphasized the importance of communication with Jost in maintaining this balance:
“But, I think if you can close the gap as much as possible by sharing responsibilities with the other person and communicating, that’s how you do it.”
What Lies Ahead for Johansson’s Career
Scarlett Johansson’s directorial debut with Eleanor the Great positions her at a new creative frontier, marking a significant milestone after years in front of the camera. The film’s upcoming theatrical release promises to introduce audiences to her vision as a filmmaker, reflecting long-held ambitions fulfilled later in life. Balancing her evolving career with family responsibilities, Johansson’s journey signals a deliberate and thoughtful step into directing, promising growth in her diverse artistic endeavors.
