Scarlett Johansson’s directorial debut, Eleanor the Great, has gained renewed attention after arriving on Netflix, despite a limited theatrical release and a modest $3 million worldwide box office. The film, which stars June Squibb, Erin Kellyman, and Chiwetel Ejiofor, centers on the life of a 94-year-old woman navigating loss and unexpected relationships in New York City.
A Story of Loneliness and Connection in Eleanor the Great
Eleanor the Great follows the story of Eleanor, portrayed by June Squibb, who moves back to New York City after the death of her lifelong friend Bessie, played by Rita Zohar. Bessie was a Holocaust survivor, and Eleanor’s return to the city marks a new chapter full of emotional challenges. There, she meets Nina, a young journalism student played by Erin Kellyman, and becomes entangled in a growing deception that complicates her life. The film initially premiered at the Cannes Film Festival before its quiet theatrical rollout.
Growing Popularity on Netflix’s US Charts
Since debuting on Netflix in the United States on January 24, Eleanor the Great has consistently ranked within the platform’s Top 10 most-watched movies. It has oscillated between the eighth, ninth, and tenth spots, currently holding the tenth position. The film is trailing behind popular titles such as M3GAN 2.0, No Time to Die, and Kidnapped: Elizabeth Smart, among others. This streaming success highlights the film’s growing appeal among American audiences despite its earlier financial performance.
Critical Reception and Audience Reactions Differ
Critics have given Eleanor the Great mixed reviews, reflected in a 66% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with many citing tonal inconsistencies throughout the film. However, June Squibb’s portrayal of Eleanor received widespread acclaim. ScreenRant’s Rachel LaBonte noted,
The biggest selling point is Squibb. With a mischievous twinkle in her eye, she shoots off wisecracks and plenty of grandmotherly affection, and you almost wish you could be friends with Eleanor too.
LaBonte, ScreenRant
General audiences responded more positively, as indicated by a 93% approval rating on Popcornmeter. This enthusiastic reception has contributed to the movie’s streaming success and broader reach in the US market shortly after its Netflix release.
Inspiration Behind the Story
Though Eleanor the Great tells a fictional story, the character of Eleanor is inspired by Tory Kamen’s grandmother, who moved to New York in her 90s, similar to Eleanor’s journey. Kamen’s grandmother shared her difficulties in making new connections at an advanced age, especially when others preferred to hear about her past rather than her present experiences. This personal connection influenced the themes explored in the film.
Cast Highlights and Prior Work
June Squibb, who plays Eleanor, recently earned critical praise for her role as a 93-year-old woman in the 2024 film Thelma, where her character pursues a scammer who swindled her out of $10,000. Squibb also holds an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress for her work in Nebraska. Erin Kellyman, portraying Nina, has appeared in well-known productions including Solo: A Star Wars Story, Marvel’s The Falcon and the Winter Soldier, the Disney+ series Willow, and the thriller 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple. Their performances contribute significantly to the film’s emotional resonance.
