At 94 years old, June Squibb, the actor, faced the challenge of convincing filmmakers that she could perform many of her own stunts in the action-packed comedy film “Thelma,” centered around a grandmother seeking revenge.
“It was a blast. When I read the script, I thought, ‘I can definitely do this!'” Squibb shared.
She handled nearly all the motor scooter stunts and a physically demanding scene set in an antique store.
Directed by Josh Margolin and distributed by Magnolia Pictures, the film follows Thelma, a grandmother on a vengeful rampage against telephone scammers who swindled $10,000 from her. Fred Hechinger plays Thelma’s grandson in the movie.
Margolin praised Squibb’s transformation, likening her to “an inner Tom Cruise,” as she grew more confident with each stunt.
“As we filmed, I became more and more enthusiastic,” Squibb remarked, adding that despite her age, she feels as youthful as 35.
“Thelma” hits theaters this Friday.
Hechinger wasn’t surprised by Squibb’s vigor, having witnessed her dedication before filming began.
“We connected early on, developed a friendship, an artistic bond. I’ve always admired her magic,” Hechinger said.
With a career spanning Broadway, film, and television, Squibb has portrayed a variety of roles, earning an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress in the 2013 film “Nebraska.”
While “Thelma” is a comedy, Margolin drew from personal experience with his grandmother’s encounter with scammers.
“My own grandma got one of those calls. It was alarming, but we intervened before she sent any money,” Margolin explained.
“The film’s fictional, but it draws heavily from my real grandma’s experiences. Her personality, little moments, phrases—they all influenced the character,” Margolin added.
Receiving a 98% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, critics have lauded Squibb’s performance in “Thelma.”
For Squibb, the film holds particular significance for women her age.
“At screenings, older women especially have been radiant leaving the theater. They’re having a ball,” Squibb shared enthusiastically.
“One woman even demonstrated how she’d ride a scooter, inspired by the film. It’s wonderful to see the joy it brings,” she added proudly.
Age-Defying Feats: June Squibb Takes on Stunts at 94
June Squibb, at the impressive age of 94, defied expectations and took on challenging stunts in the making of ‘Thelma.’ Her role as the adventurous grandmother required physical agility and courage, demonstrating that age is no barrier to pursuing new and daring feats in the world of cinema.
Behind the Scenes: Filming the Action-Packed Comedy ‘Thelma’
‘Thelma’ is not just about the on-screen action but also about the intricate process behind the scenes. This heading delves into the production aspects, showcasing how the filmmakers orchestrated the blend of comedy and high-octane stunts to create an engaging cinematic experience.
Grandma Takes the Wheel: June Squibb’s Motor Scooter Stunts
June Squibb’s portrayal involved mastering motor scooter stunts, a significant element in ‘Thelma.’ This heading highlights her dedication and the technical challenges involved in executing these stunts, providing insights into how Squibb brought her character to life through daring vehicular sequences.
From Script to Screen: Bringing ‘Thelma’ to Life
This section traces the journey of ‘Thelma’ from its initial script stages to the final production. It covers the evolution of the story, casting decisions, and the collaborative efforts of the creative team to translate the script’s vision into a compelling visual narrative.
Director’s Insight: Josh Margolin on Squibb’s Stunt Performance
Josh Margolin, the director of ‘Thelma,’ offers his perspective on June Squibb’s remarkable stunt performance. He discusses her transformation into the character, her dedication to mastering the physical demands of the role, and how her portrayal contributed to the film’s overall thematic and cinematic impact.
The Making of ‘Thelma’: Challenges and Triumphs
Creating ‘Thelma’ involved navigating various challenges and celebrating triumphs throughout its production. This section explores the logistical, creative, and technical hurdles the filmmakers faced, from coordinating stunts to ensuring narrative coherence. It also highlights moments of collaboration and innovation that contributed to the film’s success.
A Grandmother’s Revenge: Plot and Themes in the Film
‘Thelma’ centers on the story of a grandmother seeking revenge against telephone scammers who defrauded her savings. This heading delves into the film’s plot dynamics, exploring themes of justice, resilience, and the unexpected heroism found in everyday people. It discusses how these themes resonate with audiences and contribute to the film’s narrative depth.
Critical Acclaim: Squibb’s Performance and Audience Reception
June Squibb’s performance in ‘Thelma’ has garnered critical acclaim, with reviewers praising her portrayal of the spirited grandmother. This section examines the nuances of Squibb’s acting, highlighting moments of emotional depth and comedic timing that have resonated with viewers. It also discusses audience reactions and the film’s reception in theaters, reflecting on its impact on popular culture.
Real-Life Inspiration: Scamming and Safety Among Elderly
While ‘Thelma’ is a work of fiction, it draws inspiration from real-life issues faced by elderly individuals, particularly concerning scams and financial safety. This heading explores the prevalence of such scams in society, how they affect older adults, and the importance of raising awareness through storytelling in films like ‘Thelma.’
Empowerment on Screen: Impact of ‘Thelma’ on Older Audiences
‘Thelma’ has had a profound impact on older audiences, empowering them through its portrayal of a grandmother taking charge and seeking justice. This section discusses how the film resonates with older viewers, empowering them to confront challenges and embrace their own resilience and agency. It explores the significance of representation and storytelling in fostering empowerment and community among older generations.
Frequently Asked Question
Who is June Squibb and what role does she play in ‘Thelma’?
June Squibb is a seasoned actor who plays the role of Thelma, a spirited grandmother seeking revenge against telephone scammers who defrauded her savings.
How old is June Squibb, and how did she handle the stunts in ‘Thelma’?
June Squibb was 94 years old during the filming of ‘Thelma.’ Despite her age, she enthusiastically took on many of her own stunts, including motor scooter sequences and physically demanding scenes.
What is the plot of ‘Thelma’?
‘Thelma’ follows the story of an elderly woman named Thelma who embarks on a high-action rampage to seek justice after falling victim to telephone scammers.
Who directed ‘Thelma’ and what was their approach to filming?
‘Thelma’ was directed by Josh Margolin. His approach combined elements of comedy with high-octane action, emphasizing both the humor and the thrill of Thelma’s quest for revenge.
What are the themes explored in ‘Thelma’?
The film explores themes of resilience, justice, and the empowerment of older individuals. It also touches on the real-life issue of elderly people being targeted by scams.
How has June Squibb’s performance been received in ‘Thelma’?
June Squibb’s performance has received critical acclaim, particularly for her portrayal of a determined and energetic grandmother. Audiences have praised her comedic timing and emotional depth.
What challenges did the filmmakers face while making ‘Thelma’?
Filmmakers faced challenges such as coordinating complex stunts, ensuring Squibb’s safety during physical scenes, and balancing the comedic and action elements of the film.
Has ‘Thelma’ had an impact on older audiences?
Yes, ‘Thelma’ has resonated with older audiences, empowering them through its portrayal of an elderly woman taking charge and confronting challenges with vigor and humor.
What is the critical reception of ‘Thelma’ and its rating on review platforms?
‘Thelma’ has garnered positive reviews, with praise for its unique blend of action and comedy, Squibb’s performance, and its thematic depth. It holds a high rating on review aggregator websites like Rotten Tomatoes.
Conclusion
“Thelma” stands as a testament to the timeless spirit of resilience and empowerment embodied by its protagonist, June Squibb’s portrayal of Thelma. At 94 years old, Squibb defied expectations and delivered a remarkable performance, tackling high-action stunts with enthusiasm and skill. Directed by Josh Margolin, the film blends comedy with thrilling action, exploring themes of justice and the challenges faced by elderly individuals. With critical acclaim and a positive reception from audiences, “Thelma” not only entertains but also inspires, particularly resonating with older viewers who find empowerment in seeing a grandmother take charge and seek justice in her own unique way.
