In a world that is busy with only bade-bade production houses ke bade-bade movies, I’m someone who likes to go through indie films. Idk, kuch toh alag hota hai un mein. Probably the absence of performance pressure which results in such relatable, fun movies. Usi list mein se aaj I’m going to tell you about “Thelma”. And what a breath of fresh air honestly. Jahaan ek taraf I’m crying over late Zomato orders, wahaan doosri taraf June Squibb is doing an action movie as a lead at the age of 93??? Khud par sharm aa rahi hai lmao. Directed by Josh Margolin, this film is all about celebrating the unexpected badassery of aging. A fckin wild ride that I’m sure you guys will enjoy!
Plot
You know the plot’s gonna be a banger if the director’s inspiration is her own grandmother. The plot reminds you a lot about ‘The Beekeeper’, but for the oldies. Thelma, humari cutu spunky 93-year YOUNG protagonist, ko 10k ka chuna lag jaata hai when someone calls her and says that her grandson needs the cash for bail. Phir kya, 10 hazaar paani mein gaye, chapaak! Now, Thelma has two choices- to let it go or to take what is hers. And of course, she chooses option two. And before you know it, Thelma channels her inner Tom Cruise and says, ‘Fine, I’ll do it myself.’ What’s next is our dadi going full Mission Impossible which results in an amazing 1.5 hours of laughs, tears, and some seriously heartwarming moments.
Performances
I mean, June Squibb has to be the slayest of them all as Thelma. Bruh I just can’t comprehend how you can pull off a fckin action movie at 93. The determination and hunger bro, just unreal. “Thelma for a reason”, indeed. Honestly baaki saare characters are just there, and don’t really add much to the story. There’s that son and daughter-in-law couple who doesn’t care about Thelma, and there’s a grandson whom she loves khud se bhi zyada. Wahi basic emo fam tropes, nothing new. But yeah, the late Richard Roundtree also delivers a vv nice, supportive friend wala performance.
Direction and Writing
Idk how many of you know Josh Margolin, but if you’re into comedy, you’d definitely know him for his improv sketches. But directing a movie? That is a big ask, and tbh he does a pretty good job man. He nails the balance between humor and heart, so you don’t have any hiccups ever from start to finish. Legit movie chorne ka mann nahi karta. Plus, the dialogues feel so real and relatable, like you’re chatting with your own grandma over a cup of tea. But sabse important cheez- his writing is fresh, funny, and full of heart. And that’s exactly why the movie works.
Screenplay and Cinematography
At 1.5 hours, the movie keeps you hooked from start to finish. No boring moments, it’s always something or the other. Cinematography bhi kaafi sahi hai, the action shots are shot ekdum badass way mein (bro when they walk away from that bursting dustbin ooof). I’m telling you this movie can hardly do any wrong, lmao. But the funniest part has to be the background score of the movie. These guys inspired their music from the Mission Impossible films and made sure that we know that. What a fun easter egg.
So, what’s the verdict on “Thelma”? A very very fun watch if you’re just seeking some popcorn dumb fun w your friends on a Friday or Saturday night. With its killer performances, sharp writing, and gorgeous cinematography, this film is the whole package. And the best part is, whether you’re into action flicks or heartwarming dramas, there’s something here for everyone. Agar apne doston ke saath ye nahi dekha toh Giyaan hai aap.
