THELMA
Starring: June Squibb, Richard Roundtree, Fred Hechinger, Parker Posey, and Clark Gregg
Director: Josh Margolin
AMARÚ
Fuck yea! Grandmas are the fucking best, and Thelma is a riotous and beautiful tribute to the spirit of the elderly and grandmothers everywhere. Writer/director Josh Margolin balances realistically ridiculous senior-citizen action with bountiful heart, punctuated by a kick-ass Nick Chuba score. June Squibb is exquisite as the titular Thelma, and her wholesome relationship with her grandson Daniel (Fred Hechinger) delivers impactful messaging about independence and what it means to get older (no matter your age), turning what could easily be a nonsensical plot into something earnest, entertaining, and absolutely hilarious.
ADRIANO
Thelma is one of those movies that, if you don't like it, I'm automatically suspicious of you. Am I saying Thelma is perfect? No, far from it, to be honest. Its plotting is pretty clumsy, and I didn't laugh quite as much as I would've hoped. However, it's just so damn lovable. Somehow both a silly crime caper and a meditation on aging and how your individuality shifts with time, Thelma is simply something I can't quite take issue with: sincere. Coupled with a great June Squibb performance, I couldn't help but smile the whole time.
SHADAN
Inspired by his own grandma, director Josh Margolin’s Thelma will have you grinning from ear to ear. With every clever quip and rev of her stolen electric scooter, June Squibb delights and radiates charisma, making the most of a star vehicle that is long overdue. There are many hilarious gags and running jokes in Thelma, but they are never delivered in a way that is cruel or demeaning to its characters, one of the many reasons why the film feels authentic and fresh. Thelma is one of the most endearing and memorable action comedies in years, and I’d happily follow her anywhere.