We’ve seen a many actors take the leap as filmmakers. Now, Scarlett Johansson is making that jump. Her directorial debut, Eleanor the Great, is a sturdy, entertaining, and emotional film. It’s a hit, in part, because she’s blessed by a great performance from June Squibb.

The film centers on Eleanor (Squibb), a 94-year-old woman whose best friend and roommate passes away. Worried about her being alone, Eleanor’s daughter, Lisa (Jessica Hecht), brings her home to New York. Lisa encourages her mother to get out and get involved.

But Eleanor doesn’t find it easy. When she stumbles into a survivor’s group for Holocaust victims, she draws on the story of her dead best friend. It’s meant as a way to remember her friend and make a connection. Soon, she connects with a young woman, Nina (Erin Kellyman), who is captivated by her story.

But as Eleanor gets closer to Nina, she gets drawn further into the lie. Soon enough, she’s face-to-face with Nina’s father, the renowned journalist Roger (Chiwetel Ejiofor). It’s just a matter of time before her lies are exposed. But can Eleanor repair her relationship with Nina before it’s too late?

This is an interesting film that soars when it’s put on the shoulders of Squibb. She delivers some sharp and biting comedic lines at times that really make you chuckle. But just as quickly, she sinks into some emotional depths that have you drawn to Eleanor. That’s key given the plot and the difficult places that the story has to go.

Despite the lie, you feel for Eleanor. You want things to work out for her and you want her relationship with Nina to be restored. That’s a credit to Squibb and her performance. It’s also a credit to Johansson’s work behind the camera as she brings the story together and makes the most of her talented cast.

This is an interesting and unique film. It is also a great showcase for its star, who delivers as Eleanor. It’s worth seeking out in theaters.

Eleanor the Great opens in theaters on Friday, September 26.

Matthew Fox is a graduate of the Radio, Television and Film program at Biola University, and a giant nerd. He spends his free time watching movies, TV, and obsessing about football. He is a member of the FSWA. You can find him @knighthawk7734 on Twitter and as co-host of the Fantasy Football Roundtable Podcast.