Scarlett Johansson’s Directorial Debut: A Heartfelt Exploration in Eleanor the Great
Don’t be misled by the title of Eleanor the Great. This captivating film isn’t a royal costume epic set in 1566; rather, it’s Scarlett Johansson’s rich and nuanced directorial debut that dives deep into the life of a spirited 94-year-old woman, Eleanor Morgenstern. At an age when many would retreat into the background, Eleanor defies expectations by moving from sunny Florida to the bustling heart of New York City, seeking a closer connection with her daughter and grandchildren.
A New Chapter for June Squibb
Played by the remarkable June Squibb, who is blazing trails in her mid-90s as a leading film star, Eleanor’s journey is one of grief, independence, and a touch of deception. Following the death of her roommate Bessie (a stunning performance by Rita Zohar), with whom she shared over a decade, Eleanor grapples with loneliness, even as her daughter (Jessica Hecht) suggests a nursing home as her next stop. Yet Eleanor’s fierce independence shines through; she is determined to carve her own path.
The Heart of a Lie
Upon seeking companionship, Eleanor inadvertently stumbles into a Jewish Holocaust survivors’ group, started by Bessie. Although Eleanor herself did not grow up Jewish, her conversion upon marriage to Bessie’s late husband grants her a unique connection to this circle. In a moment that leads to unforeseen consequences, Eleanor shares Bessie’s harrowing story as if it were her own. This tiny, seemingly harmless lie quickly spirals, inundating her with complexities she never anticipated.
Connecting Generations
In an unexpected twist, Eleanor captures the attention of a young journalist, Nina (played by Erin Kellyman), who is working on an article about the survivors. Together, they embark on a shared journey, with Nina becoming both a friend and a confidant to Eleanor. However, as Nina’s father, Roger (played by Chiwetel Ejiofor), a prominent news anchor, decides to feature Eleanor’s “story” in a report, the web of deceit grows ever more entangled.
Cinematic Brilliance in Every Frame
Scarlett Johansson, collaborating with screenwriter Tory Kamen, creates a tender narrative that echoes the intimate, character-driven stories typical of New York City cinema. Cinematographer Hélène Louvart effectively captures the city’s vibrant essence, reflecting its role as a backdrop for the exploration of human emotions.
The spirit of films like Can You Ever Forgive Me? resonates here, as both stories revolve around the complexities of truth and fabrications in one’s life. With Eleanor the Great, one can anticipate the film making waves in awards season, especially considering Squibb’s exquisite performance—a portrayal so moving that it’s bound to leave audiences in tears.
Rich Performances and Authentic Casting
Alongside Squibb, Zohar delivers an unforgettable monologue that echoes the pain and resilience of her character, while Kellyman’s sparkling charm shines through in her role as the eager journalist. Ejiofor embodies a powerful restraint as Nina’s father, exhibiting a pent-up grief that mirrors Eleanor’s own.
A round of applause is due to the casting directors, Ellen Lewis and Kate Sprance, for their meticulous selection of actual Holocaust survivors in the group Eleanor joins. This choice not only adds authenticity to the film but also enhances its emotional impact.
Final Thoughts: A Journey Worth Taking
Though Eleanor the Great navigates some somber themes, it ultimately celebrates the tenacity of the human spirit and the connections we forge throughout life. With a runtime of 1 hour and 38 minutes, this film is a poignant reminder that it’s never too late to reclaim your narrative.
Producers: Jessamine Burgum, Kara Durrett, Trudie Styler, Celine Rattray, Johannsson, Jonathan Lia, Keenan Flynn.
Title: Eleanor the Great
Festival: Cannes (Un Certain Regard)
Distributor: Sony Pictures Classics (in association with TriStar Pictures)
Director: Scarlett Johansson
Screenwriter: Tory Kamen
Cast: June Squibb, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Rita Zohar, Erin Kellyman, Jessica Hecht
For additional coverage and reviews of Eleanor the Great, check out Deadline’s Cannes Film Festival page.
This film is poised to tug at your heartstrings—don’t miss it!
