Scarlett Johansson Makes Directorial Debut at Cannes with Eleanor the Great, Starring June Squibb

Scarlett Johansson made a striking entry into the world of filmmaking with her directorial debut Eleanor the Great, which premiered at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival under the Un Certain Regard section. The film stars 91-year-old veteran actress June Squibb in a powerful leading role, and its emotional resonance was clearly felt—garnering a five-minute standing ovation from the audience after its screening.

Videos shared widely on social media captured the heartfelt moment as Johansson and Squibb beamed with joy, visibly moved by the audience’s warm response. “It’s not every day that a 95-year-old gets a standing ovation at Cannes. Here’s June Squibb, the lead of Scarlett Johansson’s directorial debut ELEANOR THE GREAT, soaking up that love,” read one post on X (formerly Twitter). Another user simply said, “I love her so much.” One fan described it as “a beautiful moment shared between two incredible talents on a well-deserved night,” while another called the recognition “long overdue.”

The film follows the journey of 94-year-old Eleanor Morgenstein, who relocates from Florida to New York City in search of a fresh start. While adapting to her new surroundings proves to be a challenge at first, Eleanor eventually forms an unexpected bond with a 19-year-old student. The cast also includes Chiwetel Ejiofor, Jessica Hecht, and Erin Kellyman.

Following the emotional response from the audience, Johansson embraced Squibb in a long hug, acknowledging the significance of the moment. “It’s a film that I feel is historic and also very timely now, and so I hope that you all carry it with you the way that I carry Eleanor with me,” she said. She also praised her leading lady, calling her “truly inspiring.”

Eleanor the Great marks a new chapter in Johansson’s career and places a spotlight on intergenerational connection and personal reinvention. The film’s warm reception at Cannes suggests a promising future for Johansson behind the camera—and a renewed appreciation for powerful storytelling led by women of all ages.