Scarlett Johansson’s directorial debut with Eleanor the Great arrived this year, marking a major step for the Hollywood actress as she took on work behind the camera for the first time. At 40, Johansson directed the new film starring June Squibb, sharing that she found the experience both challenging and extremely fulfilling. She explained that being a director gave her a fresh perspective on filmmaking, from pre-production through to post-production, and allowed her to appreciate the process in a way that was different from her acting roles.
Reflections on Stepping Behind the Camera
Johansson described how the transition to directing made her more aware of the creative decisions that directors make, and how these influence the final film. She noted how, as an actor, there can be uncertainty about how each performance is interpreted, but being in control as a director helped her understand the craft in a new way. She emphasized the workload but also the sense of accomplishment it brought.
“It’s a lot of work, but it can be really rewarding.”
—Scarlett Johansson, Director
Celebrating at Cannes with Cast and Audience
The film premiered at the renowned Cannes Film Festival, where Johansson enjoyed the opportunity to walk the red carpet alongside Erin Kellyman and June Squibb. She highlighted how impactful it was to witness the emotional response from the Cannes audience and to see the cast, particularly June Squibb, being warmly received. Johansson’s pride was evident as she described celebrating with her co-stars and appreciating the reaction to their performances.
“I’ll never forget that moment of just being with those women after the screening and celebrating, you know, with the audience. It was really touching.”
—Scarlett Johansson, Director
Considering Future Roles On and Off Camera
Despite this positive experience, Johansson has expressed uncertainty about whether she will focus on directing or continue centering her career on acting. She told Collider that she does not yet know what direction her career will take in the long run, making it clear that both creative avenues remain open to her.
“My intention is to work on projects I would go and see, whether they’re like ‘Jurassic World’ or this film. The commerciality of things is also important to me, too. Would audiences want to see this, too? Is this generally interesting? Those are things I look for and focus on and care about. So, we’ll see, I guess.”
—Scarlett Johansson, Director
No Plans to Step Away From Acting
Although Johansson is now part of a growing group of actresses and directors working in Hollywood, she reassured her fans and the industry that acting remains a priority for her future. She clearly stated that she is still an actor available for roles, signaling no plans to leave performing behind.
“I’m certainly still an actor for hire — I want that to be widely printed.”
—Scarlett Johansson, Actor
The Significance of Johansson’s Debut and What Lies Ahead
Scarlett Johansson’s directorial debut with Eleanor the Great not only showcases her ability to lead a film from a new vantage point, but also sets the stage for future creative endeavors, whether on screen or behind it. Her positive experience at Cannes, and the emotional intensity she described, suggest she may continue to explore directing while remaining active in acting. As she weighs these options, audiences and industry insiders alike will be watching to see where Johansson’s talents take her next.
