Let me tell you a story about two incredible women who decided to hit the road three decades ago. Geena Davis, one of the stars of Thelma & Louise, recalls how she felt when she first read the script. "It was the strongest reaction I've ever had to a script!" she tells Closer. There was just something about it that resonated deep down, and she wasn’t the only one who felt that way.
Back in 1991, this road movie took the world by storm, striking a chord with audiences everywhere. It wasn’t just a film—it was a cultural moment. The movie ended up grossing an impressive $45 million and earned both Geena and her co-star, Susan Sarandon, well-deserved Oscar nominations. People couldn’t get enough of their journey, and it wasn’t just about the adventure—it was about the message behind it.
A Timeless Tale of Female Empowerment
Fast forward three decades, and the film’s message about female empowerment is as relevant today as it was back then. Geena herself admits, "None of us had any idea it would strike such a nerve. We thought it would be a small movie, but it never occurred to us it could explode like that." The film wasn’t just about two friends going on a road trip—it was about breaking boundaries, challenging norms, and finding freedom in the most unexpected places.
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Not Everyone Was on Board
Now, let’s be real—this movie wasn’t universally loved. Some folks, particularly white heterosexual males, found Thelma & Louise to be a bit threatening. Susan Sarandon puts it this way: "I completely underestimated that we were backing into territory held by white heterosexual males. They got offended and accused us of glorifying murder and suicide and all kinds of things." It’s clear that the film wasn’t just a movie—it was a statement, and not everyone was ready for that.
A Career-Defining Experience
Despite the controversy, both Geena and Susan look back on the experience with fondness. For Geena, it was truly magical. "It was such a special time," she recalls. "I was so in awe of Susan. My favorite moments were just hanging out with her. She once said to me, 'See how fun it is to work with women?' And I had to agree." The two women formed a bond that went beyond the screen, and their friendship continues to this day.
While Thelma & Louise paved the way for other female-led films, Geena acknowledges that there are still too few of them. That’s why she founded the Bentonville Film Festival—to amplify those voices and create more opportunities for women in the industry. "There’s still so much work to be done," she says, but she’s hopeful for the future.
