THELMA-June Squibb is a Marvel as a Senior Super Hero and Impossible to Resist

June Squibb is a 94 year old actor whose career began on Broadway in the original production of "Gypsy". She had a recurring role on the soap, "Young & the Restless" and a breakout role in the Film "Nebraska" opposite Bruce Dern which earned her an Acad. Award nomination. Her most recent role is the lead in the comedy/crime caper "Thelma" written and directed by Josh Margolin. Squibb plays Thelma, an elderly widow living alone. However, she's not totally alone. She has her doting grandson, Danny (Fred Hechinger, "White Locust"), a daughter, Gail (Emmy nominated actress Parker Posey), Gail's husband, Alan (Robert Gregg, Jr., Phil Coulson in "Marvel Cinematic Universe) and her reluctant but steadfast friend, Ben (the scene stealing Richard Roundtree who died in 2023). Thelma talks to the photo of her beloved husband daily but is otherwise happily engaged in her mundane life that is bolstered by Danny who enjoys spending time mentoring his grandma on the computer. Their devotion to each other is mutual. When Thelma receives a call and falls easily for a scam whereafter she sends bail money in the mail believing she's helping Danny get out of jail. It would seem a safe bet to assume she's an old fool. But, when push comes to shove, Thelma's nobody's fool. In fact, she's apt to give Tom Cruise a run for his money for the starring role in the next "Mission Impossible" movie. Thelma's family is relieved she's physically unharmed, but Thelma will not go gently into the good night. However, her inability to drive a car or walk very far are obstacles to contend with.  Needless, this does not thwart our unflappable heroine. Thelma reluctantly enlists her steadfast friend, Ben. Ben's not going to let her just take his 2-seater scooter without him in tow.  So, off they go into an improbable reconnaissance mission to get back the $10,000 she was hoodwinked. The daring and darling duo are devious, cunning and riotously funny. Gail, Alan and the staff at the senior living facility where Ben flew the coupe from are pitch perfect in their frenzied concern or lack thereof.  An ongoing gag in which Thelma has a friendly but circuitous conversation with women believing she recognizes them is ingratiating and integral to the scheme of things. Other minor characters leave a major impact. The 95 year old Bunny Levine plays an old friend Mona who is unforgettably poignant and 81 year old Malcom McDowell as Harvey, the villainous scanner who is eerily menacing. Nothing seems impossible in THELMA with its savvy script, exceptional ensemble cast and delightful antics. Not just for the antiquated, elderly crowd, this comedy/caper will capture all hearts having a pulse.