Thelma is a new action comedy starring 94-year-old Oscar-nominee June Squibb as Thelma Post, a grandmother who sets off on a mission across LA to reclaim $10,000 she was scammed out of. Inspired by something that happened to writer-director Josh Margolin’s grandmother, the film also stars Richard Roundtree as Thelma’s friend Ben and features references to the Mission: Impossible movies. Tom Cruise even gave his blessing for the footage from “Fallout” to be used in the film, although it’s unclear if he’s seen the final product. The movie also features an ensemble cast including Parker Posey, Clark Gregg, and Fred Hechinger as Thelma’s grandson Danny.
The theme of older people being scammed, especially through technology, is a prevalent topic in Thelma and another recent action film, The Beekeeper, which starred Squibb favorite, Jason Statham. Margolin and Squibb both expressed their interest in tackling this topic, acknowledging the fascination and fear surrounding these scams. The hope is that by portraying a common scam like the grandparent scam in the movie, viewers may become more aware and cautious about such schemes. Margolin emphasized that these scams are becoming more sophisticated with advancements in technology, making it even more important to raise awareness and educate people on how to recognize and avoid falling victim to them.
Squibb’s involvement in Thelma was a no-brainer for her, as she was immediately drawn to the script and the character of Thelma. She embraced the opportunity to do her own stunts, with the help of her double Heidi Pascoe for the more physically demanding scenes. Margolin, who was making his feature directorial debut with Thelma, felt honored and inspired by Squibb’s commitment to the role, setting a high standard for the entire production. The film aimed to capture the unique relationship between grandparents and grandchildren, highlighting the bond and perspective that comes with the generational gap.
In addition to the action and comedy elements in Thelma, Margolin wanted to include iconic catchphrases and a theme tune to enhance the overall experience. The incorporation of catchphrases and a signature jacket for Thelma helped to create a distinctive and recognizable character. The theme tune, composed by Nick Chuba, added depth to the narrative and character development, anchoring the movie with a distinctive sound that reflected Thelma’s perspective. The music, inspired by Lalo Schifrin but with its unique twist, elevated the tone and pace of the film, enhancing the genre elements while maintaining a character-driven focus.
Thelma stands out as a refreshing addition to the action comedy genre, offering a unique perspective on the theme of older people being scammed and the power of courage and determination in overcoming challenges. With a talented ensemble cast, including the legendary June Squibb in her first leading role, the film captures the heart and spirit of its characters while delivering thrilling action sequences and comedic moments. Margolin’s vision for the film, paired with Squibb’s captivating performance, creates a memorable cinematic experience that resonates with audiences and leaves a lasting impact on viewers. Thelma’s blend of action, heart, and humor makes it a must-watch for fans of the genre and those looking for a story that celebrates the strength and resilience of older generations.
