19 September 2024 | East Gippsland News Weekend June Squibb, Oscar nominated at 84 for Alexander Payne’s Nebraska (2013), has performed, mostly on stage, for 75 years. Now 94, she finally takes a film lead as Thelma Post and deserves a Best Actress nomination. Writer-director Josh Margolin’s feature debut modelled the film on his own family; his real life grandmother Thelma, now 104 years old, is credited and seen at the movie’s conclusion. Some of the filming took place in real life Thelma’s apartment. This is a true story, a young filmmaker’s touching and humorous tribute to seniors, a Mission: Impossible with a cast of recycled teenagers. Immediately the film opens a strong bond between grandma and her 24-year-old grandson. Treated never less than capable, nor looking down on its ageing characters, grandson Danny helps grandma Thelma to manipulate a computer mouse. This intergenerational affinity sets up interesting dynamics. Both are treated like children, most of all by Daniel’s parents Gail and Alan (a highly strung Parker Posey, and Clark Gregg). They reflect the way the elderly are too often treated. Squibb and Hechinger present a caring and delightful screen chemistry while proving their independence from parents and Thelma’s daughter. In life during and away from the camera June Squibb and Fred Hechinger became real friends. You may not yet know Fred Hechinger, but you will. He will next be seen as the villain Emperor Caracalla in Ridley Scott’s Gladiator II. Thelma reminds of a similar storyline starring Jason Statham in The Beekeeper. Thelma Post (June Squibb) is scammed over the phone by a lad impersonating her grandson Danny (Fred Hechinger). The convincing voice pleads needing $10,000 to get out of jail. “Please send the money immediately.” Thelma duly posts the money. Never underestimate seniors. After mailing the money, Thelma realises she’s been conned and decides to get her money back. After seeing Tom Cruise on TV, what comes next is a funny caper mimicking Mission: Impossible which, come to think of it, seems to be Tom Cruise’s method to avoid inevitable ageing. This film is a genius idea, pure fun, and you’ll laugh a lot. Margolin has an amazing way of delivering an action story. Thelma is assisted by Ben Shaft himself (Richard Roundtree) who passed away from pancreatic cancer, age 81, and has a dedication at the movie’s conclusion. Action hero granny With or without his mobility scooter, Roundtree’s performance steals scenes just with his presence. He makes no attempt to parody or allude to his iconic Shaft character. His is a lovely performance and a moving farewell. Thelma thinks Ben, a widower and long time acquaintance, is a bore until she needs his red two-seater scooter. Surprisingly, this spry granny insisted on doing all of her stunts, training for months driving a mobility scooter. She rolls over a bed. Hechinger had his stunt adrenalin pumped in a car chase. The things she and Hechinger do might seem little, but are quite enormous. Ask any senior what it’s like to fall and get up again! Better not to say what happens in the final act except to casually mention Malcolm McDowell, villain extraordinaire who’s simultaneously funny, sad, and just that little bit ruthless. His sidekick is portrayed by Quinn Beswick. Thelma is most enjoyable, the kind of comedy you can safely take granny to see. You have to see it. Movie: Thelma Duration: 98 mins Writer/director: Josh Margolin Starring: June Squibb, Fred Hechinger, Richard Roundtree, Parker Posey, Clark Gregg, Malcolm McDowell, Quinn Beswick Rating: Reviewed by Lawrenty WEEKENDMOVIE Red, red, red Brett Stewart Store Manager, Dan Murphy's Bairnsdale Cherry red. Enticing primary aromas of ripe strawberries, cherries and roses are highlighted with hints of earthy chocolate. Bright summer berries fill the lively, medium weight palate. 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