Eleanor the Great Review: June Squibb Shines in Scarlett Johansson’s Directorial Debut

A National Treasure in the Spotlight

June Squibb proves once again why she must be protected at all costs. At 94 years old, she isn’t just showing up — she’s delivering a full-force performance that dominates the screen. This isn’t a supporting turn; Squibb carries the film in nearly every scene with humor, warmth, and emotional power. Her love for acting radiates in every frame, cementing her place as a true legend.

Scarlett Johansson Steps Behind the Camera

Much of the anticipation around Eleanor the Great came from Scarlett Johansson’s directorial debut. While it’s easy to be skeptical when big stars step behind the camera, Johansson delivers a surprisingly confident first outing. The film is tender, heartfelt, and visually polished, showing real promise for her career as a filmmaker. If this is the foundation, her next project will only draw more interest.

Performances That Break You Open

The acting across the board is stellar. Erin Kellyman, with her expressive eyes and emotional vulnerability, delivers a performance that resonates deeply. She makes grief visible in a way that lingers long after the credits. Chiwetel Ejiofor, even in a smaller role, commands the screen with charisma, elevating the ensemble. Together, they create a chemistry that feels lived-in, layered, and emotionally devastating.

A Bond That Feels Raw and Pure

At its heart, the film thrives on the relationship between Rita (Kellyman) and Eleanor (Squibb). Their bond is tender, intimate, and filled with moments of unexpected humanity. Beyond the cuteness of their interactions, there’s a raw purity to their connection — two women from completely different walks of life finding solace and understanding in each other. It’s the kind of relationship story that reminds us what we all aspire to in our best selves.

The Holocaust Narrative: A Risky Device

One of the film’s heavier elements is the story of Bessie, a Holocaust survivor. This narrative choice will inevitably be divisive. While it adds historical weight and emotional intensity, it also raises questions about representation and trauma. Introducing themes of false identity and survivor testimony can be a dangerous line to walk, especially when real-life stories carry immeasurable pain. For some, it may feel like the film leans on this narrative device as the only way to evoke depth, which risks overshadowing the quieter, more human moments.

An Emotional Roller Coaster with Lasting Charm

Despite that caveat, Eleanor the Great remains a beautifully crafted, emotionally gripping film. It’s at once heartbreaking and heartwarming, blending grief, resilience, and joy in ways that feel both universal and personal. Squibb is extraordinary, Kellyman continues to prove herself as a rising star, and Johansson’s steady direction makes this an auspicious debut.