Eleanor the Great

Eleanor the Great is a heartfelt drama that follows 94-year-old Eleanor Morgenstein, a woman navigating life after the death of her best friend and roommate. After moving back to New York City from Florida, she finds herself in a new chapter of her life, trying to rebuild connections and find purpose. The film stars June Squibb as Eleanor, alongside Erin Kellyman, Jessica Hecht, and Chiwetel Ejiofor. Directed by Scarlett Johansson, this marks her debut behind the camera, and it’s a story that blends humor, heartache, and the complexities of human relationships. Themes of aging, grief, Jewish identity, and friendship are woven throughout, making it a deeply personal and relatable experience.

The plot centers on Eleanor’s efforts to fit in after her move, leading her to join a group at a Jewish Community Center. Her attempts to belong take an unexpected turn when she adopts her late friend’s Holocaust family story, creating a web of misunderstandings and emotional tension. The film explores how this false identity affects her relationships, particularly with her daughter, her new friends, and a young journalist who becomes a close confidante. The story is as much about the weight of memory as it is about the courage to face the truth.

Scarlett Johansson’s direction brings a mix of vulnerability and determination to the project, while June Squibb’s performance steals the show with her wit and emotional depth. The film’s production involved real Holocaust survivors in key scenes, adding authenticity to its exploration of history and resilience. Critics have praised Squibb’s work but noted the film’s uneven moments, with mixed reviews overall. It’s a character-driven story that leans on its cast’s chemistry and the rawness of its themes.

Fans of slow-burn dramas with emotional depth will likely enjoy Eleanor the Great, especially those who appreciate stories about aging and the search for connection. However, viewers looking for fast-paced action or a more straightforward narrative might find it slow or overly introspective. Ultimately, it’s a film that invites reflection on how we navigate loss, identity, and the stories we tell to survive.