Scarlett Johansson’s directorial debut ‘Eleanor the Great’ wins five-minute Cannes ovation

Hollywood star Scarlett Johansson made her directorial debut at the 77th Cannes Film Festival with the film "Eleanor the Great", which screened under the Un Certain Regard section. The film received a five-minute standing ovation following its premiere on Tuesday (May 20), marking a significant moment in Johansson's evolving career.

Starring June Squibb, Chiwetel Ejiofor, and Erin Kellyman, "Eleanor the Great" centres on a 94-year-old woman, Eleanor Morgenstein, whose life takes an unexpected turn following personal tragedy. The film explores themes of grief, friendship, and forgiveness.

Introducing the film, Johansson noted that bringing "Eleanor the Great" to Cannes was "a dream come true." She emphasised the collaborative spirit behind the independent production, stating that the cast and crew joined the project out of passion for the story.

Following the screening, Johansson embraced lead actress June Squibb, calling her performance "truly inspiring". She also praised Kellyman as an "absolute revelation", expressing enthusiasm for her emerging talent.

Johansson is also part of the ensemble cast of "The Phoenician Scheme", directed by Wes Anderson, which premiered at Cannes this year. 

She previously attended the festival for Anderson's "Asteroid City" in 2023, and Woody Allen's "Vicky Cristina Barcelona" in 2008 and "Match Point" in 2005.

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"Eleanor the Great" was produced by Johansson alongside Jonathan Lia, Keenan Flynn, Kara Durrett, Jessamine Burgum, Celine Rattray, and Trudie Styler. The film was co-financed by Wayfarer Studios, Content Engineers, Pinky Promise, and MacPac.