Scarlett Johansson’s “Eleanor The Great” Set to Dazzle Queer Audiences with Intergenerational Friendship and Authentic Storytelling

Scarlett Johansson, best known for her work in front of the camera, steps confidently into the director’s chair with “Eleanor The Great,” which will open in theaters nationwide and in Canada on September 26, 2025, via Sony Pictures Classics . The film’s world premiere at the Cannes Film Festival in May 2025 drew early praise for its nuanced performances and honest portrayal of friendship across generations .

At the center of “Eleanor The Great” is Eleanor Morgenstein, portrayed by Academy Award-nominated June Squibb. Eleanor, at the age of 94, is forced to rebuild her life following the loss of her closest friend. This journey takes her from the quiet routines of Florida back to the energetic streets of New York City . It is here that she meets Nina, a 19-year-old student played by Erin Kellyman, whose own journey of self-discovery intersects with Eleanor’s in unexpected and poignant ways .

The film’s official trailer highlights the humor and emotional complexity of the relationship between Eleanor and Nina, promising audiences a “comically poignant exploration of how the stories we hear become the stories we tell” .

For LGBTQ+ audiences, “Eleanor The Great” speaks to the power of found family and the importance of intergenerational solidarity. The narrative’s focus on unlikely companionship mirrors the way many queer individuals find community and support beyond traditional structures—a theme that is at the heart of queer culture and history. The casting of Erin Kellyman, an actor known for their inclusive advocacy and queer roles, adds an additional layer of resonance for viewers seeking authentic representation .

The film does not explicitly center on sexuality or gender identity, but its celebration of living authentically and forging connections across divides has drawn early interest from LGBTQ+ critics and festival programmers. The Cannes debut reportedly received a warm reception for its sensitive handling of themes like grief, resilience, and the courage to start anew at any age—experiences that parallel many queer narratives .

“Eleanor The Great” is a collaborative effort, with Scarlett Johansson producing alongside a diverse team that includes Jonathan Lia, Keenan Flynn, Kara Durrett, Jessamine Burgum, and Celine Rattray . The screenplay by Tory Kamen has been lauded for its balance of wit and sincerity.

The supporting cast includes Jessica Hecht and Chiwetel Ejiofor, both acclaimed for their roles in projects with inclusive themes. The film’s creative leadership has emphasized the importance of telling stories that reflect a broad range of human experience, which aligns with ongoing calls from LGBTQ+ advocacy groups for more diverse and authentic representation in cinema .

With its fall release, “Eleanor The Great” is expected to feature prominently at LGBTQ+ film festivals and community screenings. Its exploration of friendship, memory, and the courage to embrace new beginnings has already sparked conversations about aging, chosen family, and the stories older LGBTQ+ individuals pass on to younger generations.

The film’s presence on platforms like Instagram (@eleanorthegreatfilm) and its official website (eleanorthegreat.com) signals a commitment to engaging audiences from all walks of life, including queer viewers who often seek out films that reflect their realities with honesty and respect .

As the release date approaches, LGBTQ+ audiences can look forward to a film that not only entertains but also affirms the enduring value of intergenerational connection and the power of storytelling to bridge differences.