Sex and Nudity - 0%
Violence and Gore - 60%
Profanity - 80%
Substance Use - 40%
Frightening and Intense Scenes - 40%
44%
Rated PG-13 for strong language.
When 93-year-old Thelma Post gets duped by a phone scammer pretending to be her grandson, she sets out on a treacherous quest across the city to reclaim what was taken from her.
Thelma is a delightful and engaging film that combines comedy and drama to explore themes of resilience, family, and aging. Directed by Josh Margolin and inspired by a true story, the movie offers a heartwarming portrayal of an elderly woman’s adventurous quest to right a wrong done to her. Let’s dive into this Thelma Parents Guide to see everything you need to know about this inspiring 2024 drama that’s making waves in theaters.
Movie Details
Director: Josh Margolin
Release Year: 2024
Rating: PG-13
Genre: Comedy, Drama, Adventure
Runtime: 95 minutes
MPAA Rating: The film is rated PG-13 for some language and thematic elements.
Plot Summary
Thelma Post, played by June Squibb, is a spirited 93-year-old who lives independently and cherishes her relationship with her grandson, Daniel. Her peaceful life takes a dramatic turn when she becomes the victim of a phone scam. A scammer posing as her grandson tricks her into sending money under the pretense of legal trouble. Once she realizes she’s been conned, Thelma embarks on a mission to track down the scammer and retrieve her stolen funds.
With the help of her old friend Ben, portrayed by Richard Roundtree, and her supportive grandson Daniel, Thelma navigates the challenges of modern life, demonstrating resourcefulness and courage. Her journey is filled with humorous and touching moments as she interacts with various characters across the city.
Themes and Messages
Resilience and Independence: Thelma’s story is a testament to the strength and determination that can exist regardless of age. The film emphasizes the importance of self-reliance and standing up for oneself.
Family and Friendship: The bond between Thelma and her grandson highlights the significance of family support. The film also explores the value of friendships, both old and new, in overcoming life’s challenges.
Aging with Dignity: Thelma challenges stereotypes about the elderly, showcasing that age is not a barrier to living a full and adventurous life.
Characters
- Thelma Post (June Squibb): A determined and lively elderly woman who refuses to be underestimated.
- Daniel (Fred Hechinger): Thelma’s caring grandson who supports her mission.
- Ben (Richard Roundtree): Thelma’s old friend who joins her on her quest.
- Gail (Parker Posey): Thelma’s daughter who worries about her mother’s well-being.
Thelma Parents Guide
Language
- The film includes mild language and occasional profanity, generally used in a comedic context. Parents may wish to discuss language use with children.
Violence
- Minimal violence is present in the film. Any confrontations are mild and portrayed humorously.
Themes
- The film deals with themes of aging, family, and empowerment, providing positive role models for viewers of all ages.
Positive Elements
- Courage and Determination: Thelma’s willingness to take action and confront challenges serves as an inspiring example of bravery and resilience.
- Empowerment: The film portrays elderly characters as capable and resourceful, challenging common stereotypes.
- Humor and Heart: The film balances humor with heartfelt moments, offering a nuanced portrayal of aging and family dynamics.
Educational Value
Thelma offers a realistic depiction of elderly characters, highlighting their strengths and vulnerabilities. It provides a platform for discussing the importance of respecting and valuing the elderly and understanding the challenges they face.
Thelma Age Recommendations
Age Suitability: Thelma is appropriate for viewers aged 10 and up. Its humor and heartwarming story make it appealing to both adults and children.
Discussion Topics: Parents can use the film to discuss aging, independence, and the importance of family support. The film also offers an opportunity to talk about scams and the importance of caution and awareness.
FAQs
Is Thelma appropriate for children?
Yes, Thelma is suitable for older children and teenagers. It features positive messages and minimal inappropriate content, making it a great choice for family viewing.
What is the central theme of Thelma?
Thelma explores themes of resilience, independence, and the power of family and friendship in overcoming challenges.
How does the film portray elderly characters?
The film portrays elderly characters as capable, independent, and resourceful, challenging stereotypes and highlighting the value of experience and wisdom.
Final Thoughts
Thelma is a delightful and inspiring film that offers a fresh perspective on aging and independence. With its engaging story, strong performances, and positive messages, the movie is a must-watch for audiences of all ages. It celebrates resilience, family, and the enduring bonds that connect us, making it a heartwarming choice for family movie night.
