Scarlett Johansson has made a triumphant entrance into the world of filmmaking with her feature directorial debut, Eleanor the Great, which premiered at the Cannes Film Festival to an enthusiastic reception. The film, competing in the prestigious Un Certain Regard section, earned a five-minute standing ovation following its Tuesday screening, with Johansson and her cast visibly moved by the overwhelming response.
The emotional premiere saw Johansson accompanied by her longtime representative, while her husband, Saturday Night Live star Colin Jost, arrived separately and was seen engaging with industry executives. Also in attendance were Oscar-winning actor Adrien Brody and his partner, fashion designer Georgina Chapman, who joined in celebrating the film’s debut.
Taking the stage before the screening, Johansson expressed her gratitude, calling the Cannes premiere a “dream come true.” She reflected on the collaborative spirit behind the project, emphasizing that the film was a labor of love for everyone involved.
“When you make an independent film like this, no one’s doing it for the money—surprise, surprise,” she joked. “Everyone came together because they loved the story and the script so deeply. This is a film about friendship, grief, and forgiveness—themes that feel more necessary now than ever.”
Eleanor the Great centers on the sharp-witted and defiantly difficult Eleanor Morgenstein, played by the remarkable June Squibb. At 94 years old, Eleanor embarks on an unpredictable journey following a profound personal loss, spinning a tale that takes on a life of its own. Squibb’s performance has already been hailed as a standout, with Johansson praising her as “truly inspiring” in an emotional post-screening embrace that lasted several minutes.
As the applause finally subsided, Johansson shared her hopes for the film’s lasting impact. “I believe this is a historic and timely story, and I hope it stays with you the way Eleanor has stayed with me,” she told the audience.
Johansson is no stranger to the Cannes Film Festival, having attended multiple times throughout her career. This year, she is pulling double duty—not only as a director but also as part of the ensemble cast of Wes Anderson’s The Phoenician Scheme. Her previous Cannes appearances include Anderson’s Asteroid City (2023) and two films by Woody Allen—Vicky Cristina Barcelona (2008) and Match Point (2005).
Behind the scenes, Eleanor the Great was brought to life by a dedicated production team, including Johansson herself alongside Jonathan Lia and Keenan Flynn. The film was co-financed by several production companies, with Wayfarer Studios, Content Engineers, Pinky Promise, and MacPac all playing key roles in its realization.
The reception at Cannes suggests that Johansson’s transition from acclaimed actress to director is off to a stellar start. With Eleanor the Great, she has crafted a poignant, character-driven story that resonates deeply, further cementing her place as a multifaceted force in the film industry. As the festival continues, all eyes will be on this heartfelt debut and the conversations it sparks about aging, resilience, and human connection.
A Star-Studded Premiere and a Promising New Chapter
The premiere of Eleanor the Great was not just a celebration of Johansson’s directorial vision but also a testament to the power of storytelling. The film’s themes of redemption and late-life adventure struck a chord with the Cannes audience, many of whom lingered in the theater long after the credits rolled.
June Squibb, at 94, delivers what may be the performance of her career, embodying Eleanor with wit, vulnerability, and unshakable spirit. Her chemistry with co-stars Chiwetel Ejiofor and Erin Kellyman adds layers of warmth and complexity to the narrative, making the film both humorous and deeply moving.
Johansson’s direction has been praised for its sensitivity and precision, balancing the story’s emotional weight with moments of levity. Having spent decades in front of the camera, she brings an actor’s intuition to her filmmaking, drawing out nuanced performances from her cast.
As the festival progresses, Eleanor the Great is already generating awards buzz, particularly for Squibb’s luminous turn. Whether the film secures distribution deals or additional accolades, its Cannes debut has undeniably marked Johansson as a filmmaker to watch.
For audiences worldwide, Eleanor the Great promises to be a touching, thought-provoking experience—one that proves Johansson’s talents extend far beyond acting. With this debut, she has not only honored her protagonist’s indomitable spirit but also carved out a bold new path in her own illustrious career.