What is 'Eleanor the Great' about?

'Eleanor the Great' is a film that explores the struggles of an elderly woman, played by actress June Squibb, who moves to New York City and begins telling lies about being a Holocaust survivor in order to gain attention and connection.

How did screenwriter Tory Kamen come up with the idea for 'Eleanor the Great'?

Kamen based the character of Eleanor on her own grandmother, who she was very close with and who found it difficult to make friends at the age of 95.

Who else stars in 'Eleanor the Great' besides June Squibb?

The film also features real Holocaust survivors in supporting roles, with the filmmakers working closely with the Holocaust Museum and Museum of Tolerance to ensure an authentic representation.

Home / Arts and Entertainment / Actress Squibb Brings Authenticity to Role of Elderly Liar in 'Eleanor the Great'

Actress Squibb Brings Authenticity to Role of Elderly Liar in 'Eleanor the Great'

15 Nov

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Summary

Actress June Squibb relates to character's struggles with aging and loneliness
Screenwriter Tory Kamen based film on her own grandmother's experiences
Real Holocaust survivors play supporting roles in the film

Actress Squibb Brings Authenticity to Role of Elderly Liar in 'Eleanor the Great'

In the upcoming film "Eleanor the Great," veteran actress June Squibb brings a powerful sense of authenticity to her portrayal of the title character. Squibb, who is 95 years old as of November 2025, relates deeply to the struggles faced by the elderly protagonist.

The film, directed by Scarlett Johansson in her feature debut, follows Eleanor, a woman who moves to New York City with her family. Seeking connection, she accidentally attends a Holocaust survivor support group and continues to play the role, telling stories from her late friend, an actual survivor. This is just the latest in a series of lies told by Eleanor, whose other fibs may be more humorous but are never mocked by the film.