Film No. 58. THELMA (2024). 26th Aug.

 

Film No. 58 (2024) August 26th.  6:30 PM  WINDSOR Luna, Cinema 1, Nedlands.

"How hard can it be? Idiots use them all the time" (Thelma makes her point to her friend Ben about why she'd be very capable when it came to gun use).

WINNER: Audience Award (Josh Margolin) Calgary (Underground) Film Festival.

 

How in awe should we be of 93 year old veteran actor June Squibb in this sweet, heist drama, THELMA? In absolute AWE in my estimation. And what a great tribute piece for Richard Rowntree (SHAFT), in his final role. 

The very serious subjects of scam criminality, and old age, are the focus of a series of set pieces here. Director Josh Margolin, better known for writing and acting for TV, uses Squibb and the late Richard Rowntree to express a series of thought bubbles based on his experiences caring for his own grandmother, named, wait for it - Thelma. THELMA is light, it's fun, and best taken with some warm milk and a biscuit on a streaming service. 

The performances of Squibb, Rowntree and Annie O'Donnell make this fluffy film worth the time. O'Donnell (TWO LIVES IN PITTSBURGH) cuts to the bone as Grace. She lives alone in her home; the world has forgotten her.  8GUMS.