I don't frequently watch movie trailers. The moment I began sensing that they disclosed an excessive amount of the plot, I ceased doing so. Simultaneously, I've come to realize that I relish movies, TV shows, and books far more when I approach them with no prior knowledge or expectations. I had heard favorable remarks about the movie Thelma, yet I knew very little about it other than the primary promotional image featuring June Squibb and Fred Hechinger staring at—presumably—a computer.

Uncover the Hidden Depths of Thelma

Expected Adventure vs. Actual Story

As initially mentioned, I had anticipated Thelma to be an adventure film centered around a grandmother and her grandson. I envisioned a quirky grandmother taking her grandson on a remarkable journey, creating a charming bonding experience. Nevertheless, in reality, Thelma is primarily about Thelma (June Squibb) embarking on a solitary mission to safeguard herself, retrieve stolen funds, and perhaps seek a bit of revenge. It's all about Thelma's fearless nature. Her grandson, Daniel (Fred Hechinger), spends a significant portion of the movie attempting to locate her along with his parents. Although the plot deviated slightly from expectations, it remains a story about the bond between this grandmother and grandson.His motivation to find her stems from his concern, love, and a tinge of guilt. Daniel and Thelma have adventures in Thelma, yet not directly together. In a movie like Thelma, there could be a heavy focus on Daniel's reaction to his grandmother's quirky behavior and less emphasis on her identity beyond being a grandmother. Thelma beautifully captures the essence of this woman, and I believe it's partly because the story makes her the central figure. This is her adventure. If it were a Daniel and Thelma adventure film, there might be more emphasis on him, potentially at the expense of giving her the due attention she deserves. It could have been a movie solely about Daniel's reaction to Thelma.Squibb brings this dynamic character to life with such ease and brilliance. This is one of her finest performances, especially considering her dedication to the role. I'm glad I had the wrong impression of Thelma as it enhanced the film's unexpected elements, making them all the more delightful.

Aging and Death: The Realities

Thelma stands out as one of the best movies that delves into the topic of aging. It initiates a candid discussion about the brilliance and burden of growing older, encompassing the fear of dying, falling ill, and being disregarded by society as someone no longer contributing. It's a privilege to reach old age, yet many view it as a misfortune. Sadly, in certain aspects, it is, considering how the body weakens with time. Thelma doesn't shy away from or sugarcoat the harsh aspects of aging but also highlights the numerous advantages. Thelma has become this beloved grandmother because aging has bestowed upon her an infectious and charming attitude and personality.Daniel and Thelma fear her death yet are aware that it is an inevitable part of life. As I grow older, I think about aging and death more frequently, and I hold both in equal fear. It's a terrifying concept, but Thelma also reminds me (and hopefully other viewers) that aging and death are frightening yet they also signify that you have lived a life worthy of others fearing your absence. You are not defined by your death or aging but by the life and years you have lived. I didn't anticipate this comedy (one of the best of 2024 so far) to prompt me to engage in some soul-searching.

Entertainment with a Meditative Touch

I expected to be entertained by this wholesome, wacky action-adventure comedy and enjoy it thoroughly. However, I was unexpectedly confronted with some life lessons. Thelma handles the subject of aging in a realistic, honest, and introspective manner. I laughed a great deal during this movie, but I also pondered its underlying messages. I watched Thelma a few days after my birthday, and as I age, it becomes less of a celebration and more of a source of dread. Instead of celebrating what I have achieved, I find myself thinking about all the things I haven't accomplished by my current age.It's easy to view aging as an adversary, but films like Thelma emphasize the tragic aspects of aging while also making you consider why it is a positive thing. Thelma is not a character who readily embraces aging. Like many, she tries to fight it with all her might, but it's a battle that cannot be won. Thelma fails to realize that her charm lies in the character development that comes with a long and fulfilling life.Thelma is magnificent in her current state because she has lived to reach this age and become this fully developed version of herself.

Relationship with Aging and Loved Ones

Most of my grandparents passed away when I was very young. Subsequently, my last living grandmother also died a few years ago. I witnessed her declining health, and it still haunts me to see what she endured and how she passed away due to aging. Thankfully, both of my parents are still alive, but they are growing older and older, and I often worry about their well-being. It's difficult not to worry about aging and the ones we love. It's hard not to fear it.I will always have a fear of seeing my parents and those I love age and eventually leave this world. However, Thelma argues that we can't control aging or the timing of a loved one's passing, but we can learn to appreciate and love them as long as they are with us. And we can honor them even when they are no longer here or even while they are still around. It didn't make me stop fearing my family's aging, but it helped me become more conscious of appreciating them in the present.Thelma is one of the great movies that touches on the subject of death, even if it is implied death and loss.

Other Unexpected Themes

The main plot of Thelma revolves around Thelma and her friend Ben (played by the late Richard Roundtree) as they strive to confront a phone scammer who steals a significant amount of her money. By presenting this theme of phone or internet scammers who target vulnerable individuals through manipulation, Thelma makes you furious with these scammers (even more so) and also showcases how they manage to deceive older people.Sometimes people judge those who are scammed and label them or make assumptions because they have fallen victim to deceitful individuals. It's easy to sit in judgment and claim that such things would never happen to you or someone you know. However, Thelma demonstrates that it can happen to anyone, especially those in a vulnerable mental state, or those who are not fully familiar with the internet, or even those facing distress. I loved how Thelma's main plot hopefully opens the door for people to be more empathetic towards scam victims. It's not something that people should easily judge or mock, especially when it affects older individuals.Thelma is a highly entertaining movie that also provokes deep thought and evokes sympathy. It is one of the best movies I have ever seen about aging.Stream Thelma on Hulu.