Eleanor the Great (2025)

Scarlett Johansson makes a remarkably confident feature directorial debut with Eleanor the Great (2025), a warm, tender, and delightfully sharp comedy-drama centered on an unforgettable performance by national treasure June Squibb.  Exploring theme, identity, and the unpredictable nature of human connection, the film presents an intimate portrait of rebuilding a life at any age, balancing gentle humour with profound emotional resonance.

The story follows Eleanor Morgenstein (June Squibb), a spirited 94-year-old woman grappling with the sudden loss of her lifelong best friend. Seeking a fresh start, Eleanor relocates from Florida to New York City to live near her daughter Lisa (Jessica Hecht) and grandson Max (Will Price). Struggling with profound grief and unfamiliar surroundings, Eleanor reluctantly visits a local community centre, where an inadvertent misunderstanding leads the group to mistake her for someone with a dramatic personal history.

Before Eleanor can set the record straight, her path crosses with Nina (Erin Kellyman), a 19-year-old college student navigating her own quiet heartache following the loss of her mother. Captivated by Eleanor's candid nature, Nina strikes up a conversation that quickly blossoms into an improbable and deeply heartwarming intergenerational friendship. As the pair explore the vibrant streets of New York together, Eleanor finds herself caught between the comfort of her white lies and the burgeoning reality of a genuine connection.

Anchored by Squibb’s charismatic, razor-sharp comic timing, the film is further elevated by exceptional supporting turns from Chiwetel Ejiofor as Nina’s grieving father and Erin Kellyman, who brings striking sincerity to her role. Johansson directs with a sensitive, light touch, framing the chaos of New York alongside intimate moments of shared solace, supported by an evocative score from Dustin O'Halloran.

Rich in wit, wisdom, and genuine heart, Eleanor the Great is a captivating celebration of friendship, resilience, and the healing power of shared stories.  It promises our RCC audience a deeply touching, uplifting afternoon at the cinema that will linger long after the final credits roll.