Scarlett Johansson Teases Directing Marvel in Future Following Cannes Debut

Scarlett Johansson officially stepped behind the camera for the first time with her directorial debut, ‘Eleanor the Great’, which premiered at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival. Known globally for her powerhouse performances on screen, Johansson entered a new chapter in her career by taking on the role of director, marking a significant milestone in her creative journey.

The actress, who gained notoriety for her famous portrayal of Natasha Romanoff, also known as Black Widow, in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, is now considering a possible comeback to the studio, but this time as director.

 Scarlett Johansson stated that he would like to direct a big action movie, especially one set in the Marvel universe, in a sit-down interview with Deadline at Cannes.  In her reflections on her involvement in the production of ‘Black Widow’, she emphasised the importance of human connection and emotion in expansive narrative.  According to her, action-packed blockbusters may still have a deep plot, particularly if they incorporate themes like disappointment, family, and personal development, as she did in Eleanor the Great.

Scarlett Johansson clarified that she believes there is creative potential in striking a balance between dramatic storytelling and high-budget action, and that directing in the vast Marvel Cinematic Universe may present an intriguing challenge that she is willing to take on. 

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‘Eleanor the Great’ was given high marks in Cannes, including a standing ovation that lasted five minutes.  The film follows 94-year-old Eleanor Morgenstein, a clever and disobedient woman, as she deals with bereavement and the fallout from the stories we tell.  The movie, which stars June Squibb, Jessica Hecht, and Chiwetel Ejiofor, has been called a "comically poignant" story of truth, loss, and rebirth.

A few years after her widely publicised legal battle with Disney over ‘Black Widow’, Scarlett Johansson is entering an exciting new phase in her career—this time, behind the camera. She sued Disney in 2021, alleging that the company had violated her contract by releasing the movie on Disney+ and in cinemas at the same time, which had an impact on her earnings that were based on box office performance.  After the issue was eventually settled, Scarlett Johansson felt upbeat about working with Disney in the future.

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 The Oscar-nominated actress is making a complete circle with her comeback as a filmmaker.  Fans and industry insiders alike are eager to see if her next major move will be bringing a new Marvel narrative to life from behind the camera, now that her directing vision is fully on display.

Critics and fans around the world are taking notice of Scarlett Johansson transformation from superhero icon to auteur filmmaker as her filmmaking career progresses.

–Farheen Ali