As a movie enthusiast with a soft spot for films that celebrate the resilience and vibrancy of our seniors, I wholeheartedly recommend “Thelma” to anyone who appreciates a good blend of action, comedy, and heartwarming storytelling. This indie gem, now streaming on Hulu, is a testament to the timeless talent of June Squibb, who delivers an unforgettable performance as the feisty, confident senior taking on phone scammers in this delightful tale.
Despite the common perception that action movies are solely about grand displays of bravado featuring muscular men or seductive women battling hordes of villains, the genre continues to surprise us with its inventiveness and thrill factor. From the genre-blending action of “Nobody,” where comedian Bob Odenkirk takes on the role of a rugged hero, to the atmospheric, dark, and haunting masterpiece that is A24’s “The Northman,” the genre consistently demonstrates its ability to explore fresh perspectives and captivate an audience that never tires of being amazed.
2024 delivered an unexpected treat for lovers of action and comedy with the release of “Thelma”, a film centered around revenge featuring a 98-year-old character taking vengeance. This quirky, engaging plot captured both audiences and critics alike, making it a must-see. Let’s dive into this entertaining action movie and explore why you should watch it now that it’s available on streaming platform Hulu, following its successful stint at the box office.
‘Thelma’ Is a Surprisingly Delightful Take on the Action Genre
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93-year-old Thelma Post decides to seek justice after being victimized by a phone scam where she was tricked into giving 10k to someone posing as her son. She enlists the help of her friend Ben, and together they set out on her scooter armed with a gun borrowed from another elderly acquaintance named Mona. They venture into a risky urban neighborhood in pursuit of the con artists, while Thelma’s family grows worried after discovering she has left her care facility. Determined to take charge of her own fate and uphold what is right, Thelma demonstrates both the fortitude born of a full life and the relentless spirit that comes with it.
“If I fall, I’m toast. That’s why I don’t fall.” June Squib as Thelma
In this version, the title character Thelma is played by June Squibb, who is a seasoned actress with more than 100 credits to her name. This film finds her portraying a vengeful nonagenarian seeking retribution after being swindled. June Squibb may not be as well-known as some other actors, but she has made a significant impact in the industry, with roles such as Helen Schmidt in the critically acclaimed dark comedy starring Jack Nicolson, titled About Schmidt.
Across from Squibb, Thelma’s criminal partner is Richard Roundtree, named Ben. Known for his iconic role as John Shaft in the 1971 movie “Shaft”, Roundtree (who sadly passed away in 2023) is a screen legend. Completing the cast are Fred Hechinger, portraying Thelma’s grandson Daniel, Parker Posey, and Clark Gregg. Notably, this movie was directed and written by Josh Margolin, with Thelma making an impressive debut in feature filmmaking.
Critics and Fans Couldn’t Get Enough of ‘Thelma’
1) Impressively, both fans and critics were won over by Thelma.
According to Richard Roper, film critic from the Chicago Sun Times, the movie “Thelma” received a rating of 3/4. He commended the film for its relatability and accessibility to a broader audience, stating that it offers a comfortable viewing experience with genuine characters who converse like ordinary people, even when the scenarios seem improbable.
I, as a supporter, echo the acclaim of critics who highly commended June Squibb’s exceptional performance in the film. Brandon David Wilson of Roger Ebert.com also sang its praises, noting that the entire movie seems to rest upon her shoulders. With 78 years of acting experience under her belt, she delivers a performance that is a pure delight to watch.
Why You Need to Watch ‘Thelma’ Now That It’s on Hulu
Thelma was quite successful at the box office considering its budget, yet it wasn’t widely recognized by many. For those who are patiently waiting for movies to appear on streaming platforms, now is your chance as Thelma is now available on Hulu. This action-comedy offers an appealing mix of humor and action while subtly paying tribute to numerous action films through clever references to popular franchises. Furthermore, June Squibb delivers a remarkable performance as a spirited and self-assured senior determined to do what’s right, making it especially relatable for those who have known such lively and lovable seniors in their lives.
“The combination of action and humor initially attracts viewers, but what truly makes Thelma a must-see is its tender, heartwarming quality. The movie beautifully captures a sincere and possibly relatable relationship between an elderly character, Thelma, and her grandson Daniel (Fred Hechinger). It also celebrates the empowerment of older generations, making it hard not to root for a feisty grandma as she tackles a group of unscrupulous phone scammers. Josh Margolin’s debut film has many appealing aspects; fortunately, you can now stream Thelma on Hulu.
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2024-11-27 03:32