STORYLINE: After a devastating loss, witty and proudly troublesome Eleanor Morgenstein, 94, tells a tale that takes on its own dangerous life. (IMDb)

   When the term lies and deception is mentioned in relation to film, spy films like Argo (2012) probably are the first to come to mind, at least for me they are.  Of course the topic is covered in films such as the incredible The Talented Mr Ripley (1999), the magical The Prestige (2006), and the crime drama The Departed (2006).  Scarlett Johansson’s directorial debut Eleanor the Great, which has now been released, features the subject at its heart.

   June Squibb, stars as Eleanor.  She moves in with her daughter, and as she adapts to her new life circumstances she looks to create a social scene for herself.  In the process she stumbles into a holocaust survivor support group, creates a back story for herself, and things go from there.

    Under the umbrella of lies and deception, Eleanor the Great tackles the subject of aging and loneliness.  While important subjects they are washed away because of the irresponsibility of how the film handles its subject.  With no spoilers, from all perspectives and events in the film there were no consequences. Life has consequences, esp when taking advantage of people like this. 

   The film is light hearted, which is fine.  The problem is the film very rarely strays from that path.  With the subject matter it seems that it doesn’t take it seriously. 

    I wanted more from Eleanor the Great.  I am a fan of June Squibb (Nebraska) and was eager to see how Scarlett Johansson did has a director. Maybe she will do better next time.

   Until next time I will see you at the movies!