Unlikely Hero Unleashed in ‘Thelma’ – Half Sweetheart, Half Clint Eastwood! Must-See!

In January, actor Jason Statham took on the role of a retired special-ops killer seeking vengeance on a group exploiting seniors through telephone scams in the film “The Beekeeper.” However, in Josh Margolin’s first film, “Thelma,” the elderly are the ones who take a stand against these phone scammers. The 93-year-old protagonist, Thelma (played by June Squibb), doesn’t require any help from the likes of Statham. She only needs a lift.

“Thelma,” which takes place in a single day, is a tribute to resilient grandmothers and Tom Cruise, and is a celebration of California’s San Fernando Valley, from Encino to Van Nuys. Beyond being Squibb’s first leading role in a film at the age of 94, after performing for over six decades, “Thelma” is also a testament to Margolin’s talents as a writer, director, and editor, showcasing his knack for building suspense and style in this high-stakes comedic drama.

In creating “Thelma,” Margolin draws heavily on his personal relationship with his own grandmother, Thelma, creating a rich story in a seemingly mundane setting. He beautifully captures the understated charm of the Valley while infusing everyday situations, such as making an unprotected left turn or closing pop-up ads on a computer, with thrilling suspense.

In “Thelma,” Margolin introduces us to Daniel (Fred Hechinger), a 24-year-old who seems aimless except for his close relationship with his grandmother, Thelma. They enjoy time spent in her cozy home, which is filled with the lingering presence of her recently passed husband. As they watch “Mission: Impossible” films together, Daniel helps Thelma with her computer and worries about her safety. When Thelma gets a panicked call saying Daniel has had an accident and she needs to send $10,000 in cash, she rushes to the Encino post office to mail the money without a second thought.

The plot takes a turn when Thelma realizes she has fallen victim to a scam. With Daniel safe, the police offer little help, and her family (Parker Posey as her daughter, Clark Gregg as her son-in-law) seems helpless. But Thelma is not one to sit idle. Instead, she commandeers a two-seater scooter from her old friend, Ben (Richard Roundtree, in his last role), at his assisted living home. Together, they embark on a quest to recover Thelma’s money, while her family anxiously wonders where she’s gone.

Their adventure leads them to unexpected places, including an antique lamp store run by a threatening Malcolm McDowell, and to surprising personal realizations. The film celebrates the concept that it’s never too late in life to learn new things and to retain the ability to surprise oneself and others.

Squibb shines in her role, brilliantly balancing humor and heart, while the late Roundtree provides a comforting presence. Posey and Gregg add comedic relief as Daniel’s overwrought parents, and Hechinger embodies the worry of a young man fearing for his grandmother’s safety while grappling with his own future.

Although the cast is stellar, it’s the film’s stylistic elements that truly shape “Thelma” into a cinematic experience. Nick Chuba’s rhythmic score lends a jazzy beat reminiscent of “Ocean’s 11” and “Mission: Impossible,” and David Bolen’s cinematography pops with vibrant colors and innovative lighting. Margolin’s inspired direction lifts “Thelma,” infusing each scene with a meticulous attention to detail.

While the plot of an “elderly female action hero” could easily become gimmicky, Margolin avoids this pitfall, crafting a film that emphasizes the potential for new experiences at any stage in life, whether they be small observations or high-stakes confrontations.

The most valuable lesson from this film? Never underestimate the resolve of a determined older woman.

This review was written by Katie Walsh, a film critic for Tribune News Service.