ELEANOR THE GREAT
Starring: June Squibb, Erin Kellyman, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Jessica Hecht, Will Price, and Rita Zohar
Director: Scarlett Johansson
AMARÚ
If we can keep having June Squibb-led, first-name-titled films for as many years as possible, I wouldn’t mind. After 2024’s action-packed nonagenarian romp Thelma, Eleanor the Great shifts gears for Squibb in a touching look at friendship, grief, and aging that showcases how her impeccable range can tackle multiple genres without missing a beat. She’s sassy, funny, and quick-witted while presenting a vulnerability accentuated by great chemistry with an equally touching Erin Kellyman. Hasty editing and abrupt tonal shifts sometimes dampen the desired emotional impact of this unique story, but its heartfelt performances still make this a solid directorial debut for Scarlett Johansson.
ADRIANO
How does Scarlett Johansson fare in her directorial debut? Considering Eleanor the Great is mostly directed like a sitcom, I'd say she has some wrinkles to iron out. That said, it's watchable. June Squibb keeps this afloat with a charming and emotionally effective performance. The writing I have mixed feelings about. In some moments, I found it funny and endearing; however, I don't know if writer Tory Kamen found the correct balance of moral ambiguity and charming crowd-pleaser. I don't think Eleanor the Great hit the marks it was striving for, but I was still left somewhat happy with it.
