#TBT Thelma and Louise

Thelma and Louise was a massive hit for all involved.  Susan Sarandon and Geena Davis in the title roles became heroines for abused women everywhere.  Brad Pitt in his film debut was all anybody could talk about and has become a global superstar.

However, 25 years later that convertible joy ride, those abs, the rape scene and that ending are still being talking about with just as much excitement today.

Director Ridley Scott was mostly known at the time for directing fast-paced action films with male stars, so Thelma and Louise was a huge milestone for him.

When all was said and done, the result was a female-centered movie, told no differently than a man’s action film would be. It was a film not only of empowerment, but equality — and audiences of both genders turned out if full force to support that premise.

When the ladies were interviewed recently on Good Morning America with Robin Roberts, Davis was reminded how she had read with George Clooney for the part that ultimately went to Brad Pitt…but she didn’t remember testing with him…lol.

Speaking of men, let;s not forget Michael Madsen and Harvey Keitel, who were just as memorable Thelma’s over macho husband and the cop with a heart.

Even more notable is the writing of Callie Khouri.  This was her first screenplay and she won the Oscar!!! Nowadays, she is the show-runner for the ABC country music hit Nashville.

However, as much heat as Thelma & Louise got back in the day for women actors and directors, it is sad to say that 25 years later in 2016 not much has changed.  In the 71-year history of the Oscars, only one woman has walked away with the Oscar – Katherine Bigelow.  Only until the last few years, have women like Shonda Rhimes, Leila Gerstein, Lena Dunham, Ava DuVernay and Khouri herself opened doors for more women to be taken seriously behind the scenes.

Nevertheless, its progress.  I, for one, am waiting for the day when women and our work is not gender based but judged solely on our capability to do our job and be great at it.

Take a look back to Thelma and Louise…