Thelma (2024) Sundance 2024

Josh Margolin wrote and directed THELMA for his 103 year old grandmother who is still chugging along and still wanting to be autonomous despite he advanced age. The film that resulted is an unexpected charmer that goes into all sorts of unexpected places.

The engine that drives the film is Thelma's quest to get money scammed from her back. Aided by her grandson and a friend, she goes off on an adventure that worries her kids. Its a glorious celebration of not giving in and growing old.

Powered by a killer performance by June Squibb THELMA, both the character and the film, surges with a life and a vitality we should all aspire to. One can't help but wonder if she will be in the Oscar mix next year after the film is released. Squibb is aided and abetted by a great cast including Richard Roundtree, Parker Posey and Malcolm McDowell, who disappear into their roles and add to the fun. 

What makes this film so special is that the film makes clear that not everyone of a certain age needs to be in a home or coddled. There are people out there like Thelma who just are going to go for it because they want to and can. 

What a delight.

Highly recommended,this is one to see at Sundance or after when it hits a theater near you.

(And stay into the credits to see the real Thelma)