The Wasteland Reviewer

Eleanor the Great (2025) Written Review

How dangerous can a lie really be? The results of a lie can be simple and harmless with no one getting hurt by them or a lack of any measurable long-term effects. A lie can also hurt someone on an emotional level and make them feel lower than you (this is quite a common occurrence for sure). But a lie can cause great harm and sway perception of things in the wrong direction. In a world filled with lies, it is hard to avoid falling into that trap because a lie can be a much easier option than telling the truth. For the titular protagonist of Eleanor the Great, a lie builds to have a life of its own. The lie (like the one in this film) becomes unwieldy and those who find out later might never forgive or get over how harmful that lie was. Probably one topic you never want to lie about it the Holocaust. 

How does renowned actor Scarlett Johansson take directorial duties with this new funny drama? Unfortunately, Eleanor the Great struggles to show a true directorial voice. The overall feel gives off a workman like vibe that lacks personality or identity. The visuals of the film feel like a network sitcom most of the time which causes the film to lack that cinematic bite. The drab feeling does take you out of the film at times, which is a shame (especially with what the film is about). Then there are some clunky tonal shifts as well as the film delivers some whiplash along the way. There are some funny moments that clash hard with some heavy moments that navigate The Holocaust as well as personal tragedy as well. Johansson does not quite find that right tone to balance both conflicting elements of the film. Finally, there are some moments that drag in the film. Anytime that June Squibb is off screen for prolonged periods of time, the film just lacks the same level of engagement. Johansson has this film’s heart in the right place but the execution of everything just lacks confidence and a strong vision of how to present this complex story. 

Does the script (from Tory Kamen) do this story justice? There is some strong writing on display at times in the film. Eleanor the Great is surprisingly hilarious with the sassy and pettiness of its titular character delivering plenty of laughs. Some of the dialogue she throws out there is downright savage as she breaks through everyone like a wrecking ball. There are some strong flashback moments between Eleanor and her best friend, Bessie, who recounts harrowing memories (or nightmares) from The Holocaust. The film takes some chances with its plot as Eleanor lying about being a Holocaust survivor is certainly a bold choice and challenges the audience to empathize with her. This is not the freshest trope (as there are other films out there right not in theaters about a big lie) but the emotional weight around it does benefit the film. The film loses focus when Erin Kellyman’s Nina gets the spotlight but her dynamic with Eleanor is one of the best parts of the film. Kamen’s screenplay does not deliver fresh or unique tasks on these themes or ideas but there is enough humor and emotion to get by.

What is the real saving grace of this film? The cast…but mostly Squibb. If Johansson did not have Squibb to bring Kamen’s script to life, Eleanor the Great would not work anywhere near as well as it does. Squibb revels in the sassy and snappy dialogue provided to her. The charisma she brings to the table is excellent while also delivering the right amount of presence to make the emotional beats hit as well. Squibb sells the humor so well (and so effortlessly) as well as the emotional beats that become the focus of the film as it goes on. Kellyman has quite a few emotionally charged moments that she delivers so well with great empathy. The authenticity of both of their performances is appreciated, and their chemistry together is endearing. The unsung hero of the film is Rita Zohar as she brings more authenticity to film and delivers on those Holocaust focused stories with all the emotion that the subject matter deserves. The biggest name in the film is certainly Chiwetel Ejiofor, but he is heavily underutilized in this film. This is a real shame as he is one of the most talented actors working today. Jessica Hecht deserves some recognition as well with her fine turn as Eleanor’s daughter. 

Is Eleanor the Great a strong start for Johansson’s directorial career? This is her first feature as a director and there are some clear bumpy moments along the way. The direction is certainly not the strongest element of the film with the humor, emotion, and Squibb being the real driving forces for why this film works the way it does. Squibb, Kellyman, and Zohar are a strong trio to anchor down this film about the ever-poignant theme centered around the Holocaust. You will laugh and cry while hopefully not being too distracted by this imperfect experience.