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Scarlett Johansson credits her early collaboration with Robert Redford as a defining moment in her career. The 40-year-old 'Marvel' star worked with the legendary actor-director in 1998's 'The Horse Whisperer,' where she played Grace MacLean at just 11 years old. More than two decades later, she continues to carry the lessons from that experience into her own career—this time stepping behind the camera.
Scarlett Johansson Drew Directorial Inspiration From Robert Redford
Johansson appeared on 'The Late Show with Stephen Colbert' recently, where she explained that her first inspiration to direct came while watching Redford on set. She recalled observing how he seamlessly moved between guiding her with one-on-one conversations and managing large-scale scenes.
At the time, she thought his role looked fascinating and even imagined herself doing the same one day. As she got older, however, she admitted she briefly questioned why anyone would take on such a demanding job.
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Image Courtesy: People
Despite those doubts, Scarlett Johansson's admiration for Redford only grew. She remembered him as warm, patient, and generous—an artist who made time to walk her through every detail of her character’s emotional journey. Their bond extended beyond the film, where she affectionately called him "Booey." For Johansson, his mentorship made her realise that acting is a true craft, something that deepens with dedication and experience. She considers those lessons transformative and credits Redford with shaping her understanding of the art form.
Following Redford's passing on 16th September, Scarlett Johansson reflected on his influence once again, noting how he created an environment on set that encouraged discovery, creativity, and growth. She expressed deep gratitude for his guidance, saying his grace and belief in her pushed her to go deeper as an artist and explore her potential more fully.
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Image Courtesy: Yahoo
Scarlett Johansson Carries Robert Redford's Lessons With Her
Now, as Scarlett Johansson embarks on her own directorial journey with 'Eleanor the Great,' she carries those lessons with her. The film, which premiered earlier this year at the Cannes Film Festival, marks a significant milestone in her career. She admitted ahead of the premiere that bringing the project to Cannes felt overwhelming but also exhilarating. Scarlett Johansson said she is proud of both the film and the collaborative effort it took to bring it to life.
'Eleanor the Great' is set to hit theatres on 26th September, marking Johansson's official debut as a filmmaker—a full-circle moment shaped in no small part by the kindness and wisdom of Robert Redford.
