Scarlett Johansson is stepping behind the camera for her first feature film as a director. Eleanor the Great, starring June Squibb, will premiere at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival in May. The film tells the story of a 90-year-old woman who forms an unlikely friendship with a teenager in New York City. Johansson, known for her acting roles in Avengers and Lost in Translation, joins a growing list of actors transitioning to directing.
A Star-Studded Cast
Eleanor the Great features an impressive lineup of actors. Oscar-nominated June Squibb plays the lead role of Eleanor Morgenstein, a Floridian woman who moves to New York after losing her lifelong best friend. The cast also includes Chiwetel Ejiofor, Jessica Hecht, and Erin Kellyman in undisclosed roles .
The film explores themes of loneliness, connection, and generational differences. Squibb’s character, struggling to adapt to life in a new city, finds companionship in a 19-year-old student, played by an up-and-coming actor .
Behind the Scenes
Johansson directed the film from a script by Tory Kamen, marking her feature directorial debut after years in front of the camera. Production began in February 2024, with filming taking place in iconic New York locations like Coney Island and Times Square . The movie wrapped in April 2024, just in time for its Cannes debut .
The project is backed by multiple production companies, including Maven Screen Media and Wayfarer Studios. Sony Pictures Classics and TriStar Pictures are co-distributing, ensuring a wide release after its festival run .
Cannes Film Festival Selection
Eleanor the Great will screen in the Un Certain Regard section at Cannes, a category known for spotlighting innovative and bold storytelling. While not competing for the Palme d’Or, Johansson’s film stands out as one of the festival’s most anticipated debuts .
Cannes president Iris Knobloch emphasized the festival’s commitment to amplifying women’s voices in filmmaking. Johansson’s entry aligns with this mission, as she joins other female directors like Kelly Reichardt and Julia Ducournau in this year’s lineup .
Johansson’s Dual Cannes Appearance
Johansson isn’t just attending Cannes as a director—she’s also starring in Wes Anderson’s The Phoenician Scheme, which will compete for the Palme d’Or. The film features Benicio Del Toro and Tom Hanks, making Johansson one of the festival’s most prominent figures this year .
What’s Next for the Film
After its Cannes premiere, Eleanor the Great is expected to secure a theatrical release later in 2025. Early buzz suggests it could be a strong contender during awards season, particularly for Squibb’s performance .
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