Thelma and Louise, two names, two women that are synonymous with one word: rebellion. With the great Susan Sarandon playing Louise and the ever-talented Geena Davis playing Thelma, this desperado duo has made an imprint in the minds of women and men since making its onscreen debut in 1991, heralding the following year, 1992, dubbed “Year of the Woman.”
Life has taught us that the majority of great things come in pairs, a fact clearly proven by the dynamics and friendship of these two outlaws. Chasing their undeniable energy, Thelma and Louise took an unconventional journey to self-discovery, and while the majority of films during the early 90s can hardly pass The Bechdel test, a means of assessing a movie’s treatment of female characters, “Thelma and Louise” passes with high-flying colors. It was this revolutionary film that depicted the liberated woman—no shackles, no restraints, just two friends navigating their own lives.
It’s difficult for a film to make a significant mark, lasting years beyond production, but “Thelma and Louise” was able to attract the attention of all viewers—even with some negative backlash, the strong presence of feminine individuality made the two fugitives stand out in all movie-going minds.
It’s Thelma and Louise’s unbridled sense of independence that we praise and strive for, even years later. As they drive through the Arizona desert, unsure of the road ahead, Thelma and Louise decide to end their trip on their terms, turning to each other and simply saying, “Go.” The final words to assure that they remained untouchable.
– Taylor Wojick, Contributing Writer