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Scarlett Johansson Cites Robert Redford’s Guidance as Her Directorial Debut Nears Release

She says his patient, actor-first sets became the template for how she directed the film.

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June Squibb stars in Scarlett Johansson’s directorial debut, “Eleanor the Great.”
Bessie (Rita Zohar, left) and Eleanor (June Squibb) share a moment in Scarlett Johansson’s “Eleanor the Great.”
June Squibb, left, and Erin Kellyman star in Scarlett Johansson’s directorial debut, “Eleanor the Great.”

Overview

  • At the Sept. 24 New York premiere, Johansson told People she aimed to replicate Redford’s patience so actors never feel rushed.
  • On The Late Show on Sept. 22, she said watching Redford direct The Horse Whisperer when she was 11 inspired her to become a filmmaker and she shared her childhood nickname for him, “Booey.”
  • Eleanor the Great opens in U.S. theaters Friday, Sept. 26, following its 2025 Cannes premiere, with June Squibb starring and Erin Kellyman among the cast.
  • Early coverage highlights a sensitive, actor-focused drama about aging, grief and visibility, with critics noting parallels to Redford’s approach.
  • Redford died on Sept. 16 at his home in Provo, Utah, a passing confirmed by publicist Cindi Berger, prompting tributes including Johansson’s public remembrances.