The 1991 crime drama Thelma & Louise, directed by Ridley Scott, is now available to stream for free on Tubi beginning July 1. This landmark film, celebrated for its female-led storyline, can be viewed without cost, though viewers will encounter occasional advertisements.
Thelma & Louise stars Susan Sarandon and Geena Davis as two close friends who embark on a weekend getaway to escape their everyday lives. Their trip takes a dark turn when a man assaults Thelma at a bar, prompting Louise’s intervention and setting off a chain of events that make them fugitives pursued by the police.
“Two best friends set out on an adventure, but it soon turns around to a terrifying escape from being hunted by the police, as these two women escape for the crimes they committed.”
—Official plot synopsis
The Film’s Plot and Themes Explored
The story follows Thelma and Louise as their brief escape evolves into a desperate flight from law enforcement. Their evolving dynamics, the urgency of their situation, and the drastic measures they take highlight themes of friendship, survival, and rebellion against an oppressive system. Over time, the characters’ changing styles and choices have also been interpreted as a queer allegory, emphasizing their refusal to conform.
Thelma & Louise’s Reception and Cultural Significance
Upon release, Thelma & Louise received widespread acclaim and became regarded as a feminist cinema staple. The movie performed well commercially, earning over $45 million worldwide against a $16.5 million budget, bolstered by strong home video sales. The film secured five Academy Award nominations, including Best Director for Ridley Scott, and Best Actress nods for Sarandon and Davis. Callie Khouri, the screenwriter, won the Oscar for Best Original Screenplay.
Critics embraced the film as well, with Rotten Tomatoes showing an 86% approval rating and an 82% audience score. Roger Ebert, a prominent film critic, awarded the film three and a half stars, slightly less than his top ratings, due to the film’s final scene execution.
Analyzing Thelma & Louise’s Iconic Ending
The movie’s closing moments are widely regarded as some of the most powerful in 20th-century cinema. When the audience realizes what Thelma and Louise intend to do, there is little time to process the gravity of their decision. Their choice is tragic but presented in a way that demands acceptance, underscoring their refusal to submit to a justice system that judges their crimes harshly without addressing the root causes.
Ridley Scott’s direction maintains brevity and avoids melodrama, forcing viewers to confront the stark reality of their escape. Ebert commented on the ending’s abruptness, noting the following:
“with unseemly haste, followed immediately by a vulgar carnival of distractions: flashbacks to the jolly faces of the two women, the roll of the end credits, an upbeat country song.”
—Roger Ebert, film critic
Principal Cast Bringing Thelma & Louise to Life
The strength of Thelma & Louise owes much to its cast. Susan Sarandon plays Louise, while Geena Davis embodies Thelma, both delivering performances that became defining roles in their careers. Supporting actors include Harvey Keitel as Hal, and Michael Madsen portraying Jimmy, who both contribute significantly to the narrative tension and development.
Availability and Continued Impact
With Thelma & Louise now streaming on Tubi at no cost, new and returning audiences can experience this influential film that challenged gender norms and crime drama conventions. Its ongoing cultural relevance continues to spark discussions about feminism, justice, and friendship. As the movie remains widely studied and admired, this streaming release offers a renewed opportunity to engage with Ridley Scott’s powerful vision and Callie Khouri’s celebrated screenplay.
