Scarlett Johansson, the iconic Hollywood actress celebrated for her roles in Lost in Translation and as Black Widow in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, recently offered insights into her evolving career and her enduring love for acting. Despite stepping into the director’s chair for the very first time, Johansson emphasized that she is far from retiring from the screen.
At 40, Scarlett Johansson made her directorial debut with Eleanor the Great, a heartfelt drama that premiered at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival. The film, known for its emotional depth and powerful storytelling, had a profound effect on Johansson. She admitted in an interview that she was often moved to tears while directing, overwhelmed by the story’s emotional impact and the vulnerability it demanded.
Still, Johansson insists that her move behind the camera doesn’t signal a departure from acting. In a candid interview with Collider, she said, “My intention is to work on projects I would go and see, whether they’re like Jurassic World or this film.” Her criteria for choosing projects remain grounded in both artistic integrity and audience appeal. “The commerciality of things is also important to me,” she added. “Would audiences want to see this? Is it generally interesting? Those are the things I focus on and care about.”
Importantly, Johansson clarified her ongoing commitment to acting. “I’m certainly still an actor for hire — I want that to be widely printed,” she stated, reaffirming her identity as a performer above all else.
Though her directorial journey with Eleanor the Great marks a new chapter, Scarlett Johansson seems eager to balance both worlds. Her passion for storytelling — whether in front of the camera or behind it — remains undiminished. With her name already etched in Hollywood history, Johansson continues to evolve, proving that her creative journey is far from over.
Scarlett Johansson’s fans can rest easy knowing that while she may be exploring new creative avenues, she has no plans to leave the spotlight behind anytime soon.