Thelma: Mission Impossible Goes Granny Mode
If you ever thought that the golden years were only meant for knitting and early bird specials, think again! “Thelma” the latest from Josh Margolin, showcases that age is just a number, especially when it comes to outsmarting scammers and going on a wild goose chase. With an ensemble cast led by the indomitable June Squibb, this comedy-drama is both heartwarming and hilariously absurd.
June Squibb as Thelma Post is nothing short of a revelation. At 93, she’s sharp, spry, and has zero tolerance for nonsense, much like your own grandmother after 8 p.m. She faces a phone scam with more gusto than most of us muster for a Monday morning. And let’s be honest, if anyone deserves an Oscar nod for wielding a stolen pistol in a rundown antique store while berating a scam artist, it’s Squibb.
Fred Hechinger plays her well-meaning but perpetually lost grandson, Danny. Imagine if Peter Pan decided to grow up but then promptly lost the instructions. That’s Danny, folks. His scenes range from laugh-out-loud funny to endearingly pathetic, especially when he’s trying to figure out his own life while navigating Thelma’s shenanigans. His perpetual confusion combined with his heartfelt devotion to his grandmother will make you both laugh and root for him—sort of like cheering for the underdog who forgot to tie his shoelaces. Richard Roundtree plays Ben, the charming widower, and Thelma’s reluctant partner-in-crime, who steals the show with his dry wit and impeccable comedic timing.
The film’s plot is delightfully unpredictable. After realizing she’s been scammed, Thelma’s decision to go rogue and recover her money is equal parts daring and ludicrous. Forget “Mission: Impossible”—this is “Mission: Improbably Hilarious.” The poignant moments between Thelma and Ben add emotional depth, like bittersweet chocolate in a surprisingly tasty and complex cookie.
The absurdity peaks when Thelma confronts Harvey, the scammer who seems more out of a slapstick sitcom than a criminal mastermind. Malcolm McDowell effortlessly portrays the fraudulent antique store owner with the kind of over-the-top bravado that makes you wonder if he moonlights as a cartoon villain. The scene where Thelma brandishes Mona’s gun and coerces Harvey into coughing up the cash while berating him for poor grand-parenting is comedy gold. If anyone doubted that seniors could be action heroes, “Thelma” puts those doubts to bed, tucks them in, and leaves the nightlight on.
Speaking of Mona’s gun, one has to wonder how a group of 90-somethings manages such escapades without raising either social media alarms or their blood pressure. The notion that this crew could outwit a scam ring with nothing but a scooter, a geriatric grudge, and the gumption of golden-age grit is both laughable and endearing. It feels like watching “The Expendables” get a Bingo reboot.
The film ends on a heartwarming note, with Thelma reminding Danny that he’ll be fine on his own, as long as trees still stand tall despite their gnarled roots. It’s the perfect metaphor for a family that’s messy but unbreakable. You’ll leave the theater chuckling yet surprisingly touched—which is probably the best exit combination since “please come again” and “here’s a free sample.”
In conclusion, “Thelma” is a delightful romp that combines the wit of a seasoned comedian with the unpredictability of a heist gone slightly awry. With stellar performances from its well-cast ensemble, hilariously improbable scenarios, and a heart that beats with genuine warmth, it’s a must-watch for anyone who believes age is just a number—and sometimes, a very funny one at that. So grab your popcorn, bring your grandma if she’s up for it, and get ready to witness senior citizens like you’ve never seen them before. Trust me, you’ll never look at a mobility scooter the same way again!