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This week at The Tryon Theatre is “Thelma” (Margolin 2024), a delightfully charming action comedy about a loving and devoted grandmother and her quest for revenge. The eponymous retiree at the center of this story is played by June Squibb, a long-standing veteran of screen starring in her first lead role with “Thelma.” The success of this film has landed Squibb with an unexpected cinematic and pop culture celebrity, a well-earned reward at the inspirational age of 94. Starring alongside Squibb as her fellow resident in retirement is screen legend Richard Roundtree, in his last on-screen role before his passing.

The film introduces Thelma as a kind, lovable, but dependent woman whose aimless grandson is integral to her daily care. One day, her comfortable routine is interrupted by the cruelty of a financial scam. Thelma finds her love for her grandson played against her, as the scam artists pose as him, needing money for a bailout. 

Thelma is soon made wise to the situation but is left high and dry by the lack of legal recourse available to her. According to the police and Thelma’s often condescending family, justice is a pipe dream in her situation, and she is encouraged to move on, and stew in her misplaced embarrassment. This concept proves untenable for Thelma, and naturally, a plan for exacting revenge takes shape.

“Thelma” is a comedy with frequent and well-timed opportunities for striking a chord of laughter. However, the “action” element of the film is surprisingly effective. Despite its comedic setting, the cinematography and editing of the film inject genuine tension into the stakes at play. 

“Thelma” does make much use of its inherently funny set up for punchlines and sight gags. The concept of a geriatric revenge scheme is rife with comedic potential. However, it is the earnest tenderness with which the film also treats age that really elevates “Thelma” above the risk of punching down with its humor. The physical and societal limitations forced upon our oldest peers are a source of debilitation, both emotionally and practically. The pride one must overcome in admitting their need for others’ help is no laughing matter, and one that ultimately is explored with depth and compassion in “Thelma.” 

The film’s depth is surprising, and its anticipated humor will not disappoint. “Thelma” has already received glowing acclaim from audiences and critics alike; an artistically sound and comedic film that treats its characters and audience alike with great respect. Additionally, the empathetic joy one experiences in knowing how long Squibb has waited for her acclaim is reason alone for attendance. 

For any filmgoer in need of a good time, “Thelma” will surely succeed in its delivery and prove that, like wine, revenge is only sweeter with age!