Thelma (2024)
Genre: Action, Comedy, Adventure
Director: Josh Margolin
Stars: June Squibb, Fred Hechinger, Richard Roundtree, Parker Posey, Clark Gregg
Plot: When 93-year-old Thelma Post gets duped by a phone scammer pretending to be her grandson, she sets out on a treacherous quest across the city to reclaim what was taken from her.
* * *
[intriguing music playing]
Thelma: Uh, how do I…
Daniel: How do you what?
Thelma: I need the, uh… Oh, where is it?
Daniel: Where’s the… where’s the what?
Thelma: Yeah, this thing has gone nuts.
[Daniel chuckles]
Thelma: I don’t know.
I can’t… [clicks tongue] Oh, shit. I give…
Daniel: What are you looking for?
Thelma: Bobby’s email.
Oh. Scroll down.
I’m scrolling.
Daniel: No, you’re not scrolling.
Look.
Thelma: Oh.
Look, this is scrolling.
Thelma: Okay.
Thelma: No, wait.
Daniel: What?
Thelma: Wait. Wait. Wait.
Daniel: What? What?
What… The… Stop fussing with it.
What’s this?
Daniel: This is an ad for Neiman Marcus.
Get rid of it.
You don’t have to trash it. Could just stay in your inbox.
Thelma: Yeah, but who needs it?
What’s an inbox?
It’s where, um, where all your emails are stored.
It’s like a big folder
on your computer with all of the emails.
Thelma: What’s a computer?
[chuckles]
This is a computer.
[laughs]
I know this is a computer, but what is it really?
How does it function?
Daniel: It’s, um…
Let’s come back to that.
[both chuckle]
Yes. There.
Yeah?
There. That’s it.
Ted: ♪ [singing “Some Enchanted Evening” over computer] ♪
♪ Some enchanted evening ♪
♪ You will meet a stranger ♪
Thelma: Mm.
[Daniel chuckles softly]
[intriguing music plays]
[indistinct chatter over TV]
[thrilling music playing over TV]
[Daniel munching]
Thelma: Pretty fast.
Daniel: Very fast.
It’s not a stuntman?
No, that’s the whole thing. He does it all himself.
Thelma: Wow.
Daniel: That’s Cruise.
Thelma: Terrific.
You got big plans tonight?
Eh, just dinging around.
You spoken to Allie?
We’re still on a break.
I’m just, you know, trying to give her a little space,
and… I’m just not really sure
what my selling points are at the moment.
[chuckles]
Thelma: Oh,
well, you’re a wonderful grandson.
You know computers. You have your hair.
I think it’s gonna start to go early.
Well, you can’t get hung up on that.
Yeah. We’re just in different places as people, you know?
She… she thinks I’m stuck.
You’re too young to be stuck.
Daniel: I don’t feel young.
Well, I don’t feel old.
Oy.
“Oy” is right.
[both chuckle]
You’re gonna land on your feet. Like Cruise.
Thelma: Who is it they say lands on their feet?
I think cats.
Yeah.
Yeah.
But I guess in a way, it could be about both.
Mm.
Do you want this?
It’s a marble. I got a ton of these.
Sure.
How about some pretzels? I got a ton of pretzels.
Only if, yeah, you don’t need them.
Thelma: No, I can’t chew them.
What… Could you please just wear this when I go?
Ugh, I’m fine.
I know you are.
You… you… you probably won’t need it, but I’ll just feel better if you wear it, okay?
What’s the point?
If I fall, I’m toast.
Daniel: Come on.
Thelma: That’s why I don’t fall.
Daniel: Don’t say that, please.
For my mental health?
[Thelma grunting]
[exhales] Okay.
For my guardian angel.
Thank you.
Daniel: It’s… it’s just a, you know,
precautionary measure.
Thelma: Mm.
What’s your plan for the day?
Ah, the usual.
[mellow music playing]
Newscaster: [over TV] Japan’s economy moved faster
than initially estimated in this first quarter.
European markets mixed this hour…
[newscaster continues speaking indistinctly]
♪ Papa loves mambo ♪
Singers: ♪ Papa loves mambo ♪
♪ Mama loves mambo ♪
Singers: ♪ Mama loves… ♪
Oh, my God. [Chuckles]
That’s funny.
[groans] Come on.
[gentle music playing]
[keyboard clacking slowly]
Thelma: Um… [groans softly]
[camera shutter clicks]
Thelma: Oh.
[sighs softly]
Eh.
Ben: [over answering machine] Hiya, Thel. Ben here.
Looks like I missed you again.
I just got my scooter back from the shop.
She’s running smooth.
I’m around this week if you want to pop by for lunch.
You know, I read a terrific…
[sighs]
…article about mangoes that I thought you might enjoy.
They seem to have many wonderful…
[answering machine beeps]
Automated Voice: Message deleted.
[monitor chiming]
Man: [over TV] I could recite that line from memory.
[high-pitched whirring]
Man: [over TV] I can’t remember anything I learned in the ’80s beyond that, like no Shakespeare, no poems, barely any math or science.
[high-pitched whir]
[muffled chatter continues over TV]
[sighs]
[birds chirping]
[clock ticking]
[cellphone ringing]
Automated Voice: [over hearing aid] Hearing aid connected.
Caller 1: [over cellphone] Grandma.
Hello?
Caller 1: Grandma, it’s me.
Can you hear me?
Danny?
Caller 1: [sighing] I got into an accident.
[tense music playing]
What are you saying?
You got into an accident? What happened?
Caller 1: I’m in jail.
You’re in jail? Oh, my God.
Caller 1: I hit a woman. Sh…
She was pregnant, and I… I don’t know what’s happening, but they’re holding me here.
You sound so strange. Do you have a cold?
Caller 1: I have a broken nose.
The… the airbag went off.
Thelma: Uh…
Caller 1: Okay, you’re gonna get a call.
It’s… Okay? It’s a… it’s a defense attorney.
Okay.
Caller 1: He’s gonna bail me out, but you need to send him the money.
I’m so sorry. I can’t believe this happened.
He’s gonna call you.
[cellphone vibrating]
Oh, they’re calling now.
Caller 1: That… that’s him. Pick it up.
Caller 2: [over cellphone] Hello. Miss Post?
Thelma: Yes, this is Thelma Post.
My grandson, Danny Markowitz, was involved in an accident of some kind.
Uh, uh, he has a broken nose.
Caller 2: Can you confirm his full legal name?
Daniel Markowitz.
Daniel Alexander Markowitz.
Caller 2: Okay, yes,
I’m looking at his file right now.
What… what do you need? What can I…
Caller 2: I’m going to need you
to mail 10,000 dollars to this address.
Ten thousand dollars? Well… Oh, my God.
Caller 2: Can you drive to the post office?
No, no, I don’t drive anymore. I don’t have a car.
Caller 2: Well, how about a cab?
And remember, it has to be cash.
We don’t want him sitting there any longer
than he has to.
I’m going to give you the mailing address.
Thelma: Okay.
Caller 2: Are you ready?
Thelma: Yes.
[suspenseful music playing]
Thelma: Oh.
Oh.
[line ringing]
[breathing heavily]
Gail: You noticed a change on the Zoloft?
Client: Oh, I’ve been feeling less anxious lately, but I actually feel a little tired.
Gail: Mm. Mm-hmm.
[cellphone vibrates]
Alan: So, I don’t know.
This one has been good every time I’ve gone to them.
This time I’m asking for sea kayaks, and this place is like…
[cellphone vibrates]
…70 miles from the ocean.
Alan: But I don’t know…
[mailbox door squeaking, clanging]
Thelma: [over voicemail] Gail, something has happened.
Mom, wait, wait, wait, wait. Slow down.
Who did you talk to?
Daniel.
Oh, Gail, he was so upset. He was so upset.
Okay, I’m calling him right now.
[cellphone vibrates]
Gail: [over cellphone] Oh, my God. He’s not picking up.
Oh, my God.
Gail: I’m calling the house line.
[telephone ringing]
Oh, my God.
[cellphone beeps]
Ah, Mom, Alan is calling.
What?
Alan is calling. I’ll call you back.
Alan: What’s going on?
Gail: [over cellphone] My mother got a call
from Daniel, and apparently he’s in jail.
Someone broke his nose.
Who told her that?
Gail: She spoke to him. She spoke to Daniel.
And then I tried calling him and I can’t get him.
And he’s not picking up his phone?
No. I’m gonna try him again.
Alan: [over cellphone] Okay. I’m getting in the car.
Uh, let me know what you hear.
[cellphone vibrates]
[music concludes]
Hello?
And he was going on and on about how you hit someone, and it was worse than you think.
And she was pregnant and…
I hit a pregnant woman?
Like, I struck her with my fist?
Oh, no, no, no, it was a car accident.
No, yeah, this was all happening inside of a car.
Oh. Okay, well, that… Yeah, that makes more sense.
Well, what are you talking about?
No, I misunderstood. [chuckles]
Why weren’t you picking up your phone?
I was asleep.
At 10:30? I called you at 10:30.
And then… and then…
Yeah, but I went out last night with some friends.
You didn’t drive, did you?
Um…
Did you get drunk? You know, alcohol is a major depressant.
It’s… Wendy Horowitz’s son is completely hooked on Don Julio.
Don Julio.
He’s… He can’t hold a job.
He’s in and out of rehabs.
He’s… Has no sense of agency.
Alan: And he vapes.
Gail: He vapes.
He’s completely lost, and he may never find himself.
Are you paying attention?
Yes, I understand.
Do you?
Yeah. I mean, it’s… it’s an issue.
Mom, did you really think it was Daniel?
I mean, how did you think this was real?
Mom, you thought it was real, too.
Well, she was very convincing.
Well, she was scared, your mother.
I was so…
We were all scared.
I wasn’t quite as scared, just for the record.
We’ll see what happens when you get a call, buddy.
I wouldn’t be fooled. My mind is sharp as a tack.
What?
I said I wouldn’t be fooled.
My mind is sharp as a tack.
What’s he saying?
He’s making a joke.
Oh.
You want to try it again?
What’s the joke, Alan?
Never mind.
Never mind.
Gail: It wasn’t a joke.
Never mind.
Well, you know, it was a close call, but… it’s over now.
Everything’s okay.
I am so embarrassed.
No.
Don’t be. You’re home.
You’re safe. That’s all that matters.
But I sent the money.
Oh.
You’re speeding, Danny.
Well, we could report a tracking number if it’s with Western Union, FedEx, UPS.
With a letter, our only real option is to contact the postal service, and with these types of things, the odds are slim, especially without the address.
I think I have it here.
Aw, it’s such a mean thing to do. It’s just sick.
Alan: Isn’t there anything that can be done?
A database of some kind.
We have no moral center as a society.
This is a systemic issue.
You have it?
I don’t have it.
If it’s any comfort, these kinds of scams are increasingly common.
Well, how do they know who I am?
They contact people at random using telephone listings and social networking sites.
Like Facebook?
Sure. Like Facebook.
Well, how can Zuckemborg let this happen?
Sorry?
Shouldn’t Zuckemborg be able to fix this?
Are you on Facebook?
Am I?
No you’re not. She’s not.
Uh, this was a tangent.
[softly] No.
Detective Morgan: I would suggest canceling your cards and freezing your accounts until you’re sure you didn’t provide any information that can leave the door open to more fraud.
Beyond that, there’s not much we can do at this point.
Alan: Hmm.
Detective Morgan: Sorry.
No, you’re not.
[pensive music playing]
Daniel: You want a blanket?
Or, um, water or anything?
No, I’ll just close my eyes for a minute.
Gail: She gets confused.
Daniel: Not really.
Gail: It’s more than before.
Daniel: I haven’t noticed that big of a difference.
Little things, maybe.
Gail: She’s gotten these calls before.
We may be entering a new phase.
What? What do you mean… [chuckles] …a new phase?
Now may be the time where we really consider whether or not living alone is the best option.
You think we’re there?
Gail: We’re just… We’re considering it.
I lost my wallet last week.
I don’t think that was a sign of my mind deteriorating.
No, that’s a lack of presence, sweetheart.
Did you order a replacement license?
Yeah, yeah. I did.
Good ’cause you don’t wanna be driving without that. You could end up in a database.
Why are you obsessed with databases all of a sudden?
You don’t want to end up in one.
Okay, well, I just think that… this can be handled.
Maybe I can handle it.
Alan: What are you proposing?
Daniel: I will come over more, I’ll call every day, and I’ll make sure that she keeps her Lifeline on.
Oh, my God, I didn’t tell you this.
Susan’s mother fell into a fire pit.
Completely died.
What? Why are we talking about this?
Well, because things happen to people as they age.
Weird, crazy things like that.
Was it on?
I didn’t ask.
I assumed it was.
Alan: This wouldn’t have happened a year ago.
She’s not as self-reliant as she was.
Gail: We can’t just keep doing what we’re doing.
She’s 93.
Alan: Well, maybe it’s time for assisted living.
[high-pitched whirring]
Daniel: You sure I can’t stay over?
Oh, no. No, no.
I’ve got things to do.
Okay.
[Thelma groans]
Yeah.
For my mental health.
[Thelma sighs]
[music fades]
[Thelma sighing]
Thelma: [voice breaking] Aw, Teddy.
I made a mistake.
[sobs softly]
[birds chirping]
[clock ticking]
[intriguing music playing]
[thrilling music playing]
[hearing aid beeps]
[dog barks]
Thelma: Uh, hi.
Hello.
Thelma: Do we know each other?
[music calms]
I’m not sure.
Thelma: [sighs] You… you look so familiar.
[chuckling] Do you know Judy? Judy Miller?
I don’t think so.
Do you know Ellen? Ellen Marcus?
No, I don’t think so.
Well, have a nice day.
Bye, now.
[music intensifies]
[exhales]
[music fades]
[laptop chimes]
[indie rock music playing over laptop]
[laptop chimes]
[keyboard clacking]
[laptop chimes]
[cellphone vibrating]
Hi.
I… I found the address.
What? What address?
Thelma: From the scam.
It was this tiny slip of paper. [Chuckles]
You’ll never guess where I found it.
Grandma, I’m sorry, it’s going…
Thelma: It was… in the trash can…
…in and out.
I can’t hear you that well.
…in the bathroom at the post office.
Wait, you went to the post office?
Yeah.
Daniel: Well, how did you get there?
Well, I walked.
Grandma. [Chuckles]
That’s far. You should not have done that.
Well, it’s a few blocks.
Y… you can’t… You need to tell me if you’re gonna… go somewhere, so that I can take you, okay?
Thelma: What?
You… you should not have gone that far on your own.
But I found it. I have it here.
Daniel: I know.
Maybe it’s better to just pause for now and we can figure it out together. Okay?
What about my money?
Am I supposed to just let them have it?
Well, but the odds of getting it back are pretty slim, right?
I mean, the most important thing is that you don’t overdo it, that… that you’re safe.
I’m sorry about the money, but it… it could have been a lot worse.
Are you okay? You’re at home now?
Yeah, I’m at home.
Daniel: Oh, great.
You need to go anywhere, just tell me. I can take you.
Okay, darling. Appreciate that. Speak soon.
Love you. Oh.
[line beeps]
Cynthia, I… I’m afraid I need a bit of a favor.
Uh, it’s an odd situation, and… Uh…
Oh, Sarah. I thought you were Cynthia.
She did? How awful. Oh, Sarah, I’m so sorry.
No, no, no. Never mind. Forget I called. All is well.
Hello? Is Harvin there?
[intriguing music playing]
Well, what happened?
Oh, a stroke. Oh, I am so sorry, Joan.
A heart attack?
Sepsis?
He moved to Cleveland?
Well, when did this happen?
Oh, God, I called Cynthia again.
Sarah, it was a mistake. I know she’s dead. Thank you.
[clock ticking]
[thrilling music playing]
[line ringing]
Danny, I need a ride.
Just to get this out of the way up top, you were not at home.
All my friends are dead.
What? Don’t say that. [chuckles]
Well, it’s true. They’re all popping off.
I used to be in four lunch groups.
Who’s left? Judith?
She can’t hear anything, and she’s a hunchback now.
I… I wouldn’t want to have lunch with her alone.
Herman’s in Canada. Mona doesn’t leave the house.
I could ask Lee Horner to join us,
but I don’t have her number.
And Ruth burned up in a fire pit.
I heard that. I’m sorry.
I didn’t expect to get so old.
Well…
I’m glad you did.
Who do you know here, again?
You remember Ben. Ben Halpern? He was married to Cheryl.
Oh, yeah.
Yeah, you guys used to see each other all the time.
I always found him, I don’t know, s… s… soft.
Soft?
I… I don’t know. Fussy.
Oh.
Thelma: Cheryl’s dead, too.
She fell down some stairs in their house.
She was there for hours before they found her.
Poor thing.
I remember.
[grunts] This car is filthy.
I’ve taken good care of it. I’m gonna clean it.
Oh, you don’t clean it. Who raised you?
Your daughter.
This is your father’s influence.
There are coins all over the floor.
They fall out of his pockets ’cause he’s got no waist.
Every time I ride with him, I make five bucks.
[intriguing music playing]
[gear shift clicks, engine shuts off]
Want me to come in?
Oh, I’m just saying hello.
I won’t be long. Thirty minutes.
Daniel: If you need anything, I’ll be here.
Thelma: Okay.
[Daniel chuckles]
[car door closing]
[cardiac monitor beeping]
[upbeat music playing over speaker]
Ben: Then you’ll go to The Roxy
and then an ice cream soda at Rumpelmayer’s
and then a hansom cab ride around Central Park.
Gloria, that’s your cue.
Oh, right. And what do I say?
Theater Director: “Golly.”
All right. Okay. Do you know? Golly.
Theater Director: Just “golly.” Just the line.
Gloria: I did, didn’t I? Yes?
Theater Director: Uh, not… not quite.
Gloria: We went through that, and I said…
Theater Director: Why don’t we go back to hansom cab,
and then grab golly?
Ah, it is good to see you, Thel.
You look terrific.
Ah, I’m a balloon.
[both chuckle]
Well, what’s with this? Are you doing a play?
Yes. Annie. I got Daddy Warbucks.
Well, that’s a big role.
Yeah, I wasn’t expecting it.
I thought I’d be part of the chorus
or maybe Mr. Bundles.
[chuckles]
We open tonight, but Miss Hannigan…
she’s senile,
and we got a lady playing Roosevelt
because there’s never enough boys.
And Gloria, that’s Annie, she’s a total amateur.
I’m going to have to bring a lot of pizzazz.
You know, I think about Teddy often.
What a special guy.
Uh, how long has it been? Two years now?
Just about two.
Yeah, five for my Cheryl.
It feels like a dream.
How are you holding up?
Let’s not be maudlin.
You going to show me your place?
Oh, oh, sure, sure. Come on.
Got a TV.
Window. Plants.
Do you mind?
Infection starts from the hands.
Director is trying to get me to touch Gloria
in that scene where I adopt her,
but I’m not going to do it. It’s not worth it.
If it makes it worse, so be it.
It’s not like we’re being reviewed.
Oh, this is Gary. We call him Starey Gary.
It’s not an insult.
It’s just something that happens.
I don’t think he minds.
Everybody does it. Not just me.
Everybody calls him that.
[intriguing music playing]
Ah. Isn’t she a beauty?
Three wheels, 43 miles per charge,
and bright red, so you can see me coming.
And a little basket for whatever you need.
I like to put bread in there.
Not… not a whole bread but just little pieces.
You put them in loose?
No, no, no. In… in bags. Ziploc.
You think I could borrow it?
Borrow my scooter?
Well, I…
I’m in a bit of a situation.
What?
I’m in a bit of a situation.
It’s… [exhales]
Oh, it’s a headache. The less you know, the better.
Well, if it involves my scooter, it involves me.
I… I don’t want to say in front of Gary.
Uh, Gary, can you give us a second?
Thelma: Is he going to listen?
I’m not sure, but he’s going to watch.
Have you got a telephone?
Yes.
[cellphone beeps]
Automated Voice: Microphone enabled.
Hearing aid connected.
[over hearing aids] I got scammed,
but I have the address where I sent the money.
It’s a P.O. box in Van Nuys. 1534 San Fernando Road.
I’m on my way there now.
I’m going to try to figure out who took it and get it back.
What are you, nuts?
That’s absurd. You got to tell the police.
Oh, they’re no use.
What about your family?
Not with this.
It’s a bad idea.
But you have a better one?
You’re not thinking straight. You’re grieving.
At least you have your health. Be grateful for that.
Listen, why don’t you stay for lunch?
We have a beautiful cafeteria and wonderful melons. Fresh.
Sure.
D… do you think I could try it out?
I… I may be in the market for one.
[scooter beeps]
I love driving. [Chuckles] I miss it.
Nice and easy. Nice and easy.
[intriguing music playing]
[thrilling music playing]
[chuckles]
[squeals]
[tires squeal]
Winston, can I borrow your scooter?
Winston. Ah, I’m taking it.
Uh, are you talking to me?
[tires screech]
Ben: Thel.
Son of a bitch.
Stay there. I’m coming to you.
[music continues]
[tires screech]
[Thelma and Ben grunt]
What?
[tires squeal]
Ow.
[grunts]
[Thelma chuckling]
[scooter whirs]
[grunts] Dang it.
[tires screech]
[horn honks]
Oh.
[button clicks]
Thelma.
[music fades]
[button clicking]
[thrilling music resumes]
[tires screech]
[tires screeching]
[grunts]
Let’s just talk.
Everybody wants to talk.
My God. I just needed your scooter.
Please be a doll and don’t make a fuss.
My grandson’s parked a block away.
I don’t have much time.
You left your grandson in the car?
Well, he’s 24.
[exhales] Please don’t make me go through you,
Ben.
Oh, no, you couldn’t.
I got a titanium hip.
Thelma: Well, should we put that to the test?
I’m going, with or without you.
I’m not going to let you go alone. I won’t.
[timer ringing]
[intriguing music playing]
Hi. Um, I’m looking for my grandma.
Thelma Post. White hair.
A little wobbly. Very determined.
[chuckling] Okay.
Daniel: She’s not… she’s not…
She doesn’t live here, but she’s visiting a friend.
She would have come in like 30 minutes ago.
Huh. So, I’m not seeing her here…
Okay.
…but…
Grandma?
Resident 1: Hello?
Oh, no. Sorry. Sorry.
Uh, I’m just looking for my grandma. Sorry.
Resident 2: Hello?
Hi, there.
You took my scooter?
What? No.
You sound like the man who took my scooter.
I didn’t take… I promise, I… I… No, I’m…
You’re getting me nervous. You’re getting me nervous.
Sorry. I’m gonna go.
Yeah, go.
Uh, good luck.
What do you mean, “Good luck?”
If you took my scooter, don’t tell me good luck.
Do you know Ben? Uh…
Uh, Halpern, I believe?
Mom, uh, we may have a little situation here.
No, I’m… I’m… I’m fine. No, I’m not in jail.
No. Um, it’s Grandma.
I got to be back by 8:00.
It’s opening night, and I don’t want to miss it.
I got it. I got it.
Daniel: Um, I checked every room.
She’s not answering her phone,
but she should have her Lyfe Line on.
So has she ever wandered off before?
Never. Not like this.
One time, I thought I lost her at Souplantation,
but she was just going back for, uh, little pizzas.
Souplantation.
It was a buffet restaurant. You could go back for more.
I can’t believe it was actually called Souplantation.
I never processed that.
Alan: Oh, wow.
Gail: Well, it had things she could chew.
Alan: She can’t chew anything.
She can chew some things, Alan.
It’s, like… It’s confusing, you know,
what she can and can’t chew.
Like, she can’t have a salad, but she can…
Like, last week, she ate a cashew.
So she hasn’t wandered off before?
Except to a salad bar? By choice?
Exactly. Right?
Yeah.
Well, um, I don’t want to alarm you guys,
but one of our residents is missing.
Alan: Oh.
Um, yeah. Ben Halpern.
Oh, Ben.
Yeah, she, she um…
Rochelle: Are the two of them involved?
No. No. They’re… they’re not even…
She doesn’t even really like him all that much.
Oh, so is there bad blood?
What are you insinuating?
Rochelle: Nothing.
No, no, no. Not like that.
We’re just… we’re just trying to understand.
You know he has a show tonight.
How would we know that?
No.
Gail: Well, does his family…
Have you notified his family that he’s missing?
He doesn’t have any family.
So, no.
Oh.
Aww.
Well, what can we be doing here?
Can you guys send out some kind of senior alert?
Uh, Silver Alert?
A Silver Alert.
Rochelle: No.
Colin: No.
We are not authorized to do that.
The police have to declare her
a missing person.
A missing person.
But she is a missing person.
Don’t you have somebody…
We don’t know where she is.
It’s only been an hour, right?
Yeah, just one hour.
Right, it hasn’t been that long.
Yeah, curtain’s not until 8:00.
What’s the show?
You’re still talking about the show?
Annie.
Annie.
Oh, that’s a good one.
Oh.
So, uh, does Thelma have any specific medical conditions
that we should know about?
She’s had breast cancer, double mastectomy,
sepsis, edema,
valve replacement, hip replacement,
arrhythmia, brain tumor.
I think she actually has a brain tumor right now.
Yeah, the doctor said it was growing slowly…
That’s right. Yeah.
…so they could…
She has a brain tumor. …just leave it in there.
And, so, all of that and a brain tumor at the moment.
Yeah.
Wow, uh, thank you.
Thank you so much for telling us all of that.
And she had the TGA, right?
TGA?
Transient global amnesia.
Yeah, it was about a year ago.
And, um, she just… she got very disoriented.
She didn’t know who she was. She didn’t know who we were.
Lasted only just about an hour.
But it was… it was unsettling.
But she’s a tough cookie.
Obviously, we want help finding her.
It’s just, it might still be a, you know,
“going back to the buffet” type of situation, I think.
Well, the good news is, they rarely go far.
[thrilling music playing]
Ben: Uh, Thel,
why does this street look so familiar to me?
Thelma: We’re stopping at Mona’s.
Oh, I haven’t seen Mona since Berlin.
That was a fun trip, wasn’t it?
What year was it? ’95?
Um, ’98, I think.
Ah, it was a bumpy flight, but otherwise it was terrific.
You know Mona is obsessed with me.
We… we never acted on it,
but she would always stare at my legs
whenever I had short pants on.
[chuckles] Whatever you say, buddy.
Now, if you’re right, maybe we could use it.
Why are we stopping at Mona’s?
To get a gun.
Oh, my God. What do we need a gun for?
Thelma: It’s just a precaution.
Couple of schmegegges like us turning up unannounced…
I like to be prepared.
Do you even know how to use it?
Well, how hard can it be? Idiots use them all the time.
You’re going to have to distract her.
She’s still sharp.
This is not going to be so easy.
Maybe I could do my monologue.
I’d rather you didn’t.
[suspenseful music playing]
[tires screech]
[birds chirping over TV]
[door closing]
Mona?
Thel, darling, did we make a date?
Oh, no. No, no. We were in the neighborhood.
I would have put shoes on.
[chuckles] Ben’s here, too.
Good to see you, doll.
Are you all right?
Fine, fine.
Oh. Oh. Sit, dear. Don’t… don’t clean.
Okay, okay.
[gasps]
Is it a roach?
[gasps]
Oh, you… you… you got bugs?
I’ve been hunting ’em. Can’t seem to knock ’em off.
Oh, they’re resilient.
That’s why they make worthy adversaries.
You get one, there are ten more to replace him.
I’ve learned to pick my battles.
So, uh, how are you?
How’s your health?
I’m alive.
Ben: Oh, isn’t that something?
I got to use the bathroom.
Oh, good, dear.
Um… [clicks tongue]
We were just talking about Berlin. [Chuckles]
[intriguing music playing]
[grunts softly]
[grunts]
Ben: We stayed at that wonderful hotel.
The Kimch… Kimpinchky? Kimsky?
Did we take a trip?
Um, that was a long time ago.
[stairs creak]
Oh.
Um, you know, I’m over at Belwood now.
They have the most wonderful melons.
[exhales]
[bed squeaks]
[grunts]
Cantaloupe.
Honeydew.
Jade dews.
Berries.
Berries?
Mm, yeah. All kinds of berries.
Raspberries. Blueberries.
[bed rattles]
[gasps]
Ben: Blackberries.
Cherries.
[bed squeaks]
[grunts]
[pants]
[music stops]
[gasps]
[gunshot]
[bullet ricocheting]
[loud clang]
Uh, elderberries.
[thrilling music playing]
“Annie, get your goddamn hound out of my pool.”
Thel, did we make a date?
Oh, no, no, I…
I was just in the neighborhood.
Mona: I would have put my shoes on.
Well, I think it’s time we were on our way.
You’re leaving?
I know, I know.
We’ll have to get a lunch on the books.
I’d like that.
[chuckles] Can we get you anything?
I’ve got everything I need.
[melancholic music playing]
Goodbye, doll.
[TV powering on]
[birds chirping over TV]
[birds chirping]
[scooter beeps]
Uh, she needs a charge.
Oh.
[music fades]
I need to get IDs from everyone.
Sure. Here.
Rochelle: Thank you.
[Daniel clicks tongue, hesitates]
Can’t find your wallet?
I… I, um… I have it. I’m just not seeing my ID.
You’re not even looking. You’re just patting.
Oh, yeah.
Gail: Let me help.
I, uh… Uh…
You didn’t order a replacement license?
No, I did. I did.
Alan: Don’t lie.
It’s in there.
Just tell us you didn’t
I’d rather know than be lied to.
Daniel: It’s…
I haven’t, uh, yet.
Gail: Why would you keep this from us?
Daniel: Becau…
Why would you keep this from us? This sucks.
Daniel, that’s really bad.
But I’m… I’m gonna do it.
Can’t drive without a license.
He can’t drive without a license.
I mean, he could, but he… he shouldn’t.
Daniel: Okay, thank you, everyone.
You have to take care of your vehicle, Daniel.
Do you understand my…
I understand.
This is the basics of adult life.
Dad, please don’t embarrass me in front of…
Colin… [chuckling] …and Rochelle.
We can give you guys a second.
[sighs]
Allie was very good for you in that way.
She was very organized,
left-brained, a grounding force.
Can we please not talk about Allie?
[clicks tongue] I’m sorry. I’m sorry.
Daniel: Thank you.
Gail: I know it’s hard.
I just don’t like to see you suffer like this.
Makes me want to cry.
What? No.
Gail: I do. It makes me very sad.
Daniel: It’s okay.
I have to cry.
Alan: Okay.
I just need to get it out.
Do you want us to…
sit with you and… to get a replacement license?
Daniel: I… I can handle it.
Let’s just deal with one…
I’m sorry.
…family crisis at a time, okay?
[sighs]
Chaim took this. My cousin.
Did you ever meet Chaim?
No.
From Hinsdale.
He’s not doing so hot,
but this is a beautiful picture.
[camera shutter clicks]
She shouldn’t be living like that.
She’s managing.
Ben: How is she getting her meals?
Uh, and when is the last time she got out of that chair?
She’s wasting away.
We all have our good days and our bad days.
And what’s today?
We’ll find out.
[scoffs softly]
Gary’s going to wonder where I am.
What’s with you? Do you miss that place?
I like that place.
What’s to like?
I swim twice a week. There’s wonderful classes…
cooking classes, painting classes, oopsie upsy.
“Oopsie upsy”?
Ben: Oopsie upsy.
That’s when a professional comes in and shows us
how to pick each other up after we fall.
There’s a tub lift, a shower lift,
and a dual lift for when a couple falls.
Does that happen often?
Uh, not often, but it happens. Usually on a hill.
You have to use each other’s weight as a counterbalance.
Sounds interesting.
[pensive music playing]
Cheryl used to cook, pick up our socks,
keep the place together.
I’ll take help where I can get it.
I’m not ashamed.
It’s not the same.
Ben: Why?
I always picked up the socks.
Hm.
She posted.
Gail: What? She posted something?
I think it…
Gail: No.
Yeah, five minutes… By accident, I think.
Five minutes ago.
Gail: Oh, my God.
Look, look.
Let’s see. Let’s see. Let’s see.
Do you recognize anything?
Gail: Make it bigger. Zoom in.
Can you enhance it?
Daniel: Enhancing.
I see gas pumps, a blue car, a pigeon.
No, two pigeons.
This is Tujunga. Tujunga.
Yeah, um…
Alan: Oh, isn’t there
a gas station on Tujunga?
Moorpark
and Tujunga.
Yes!
Daniel: Moorpark and Tujunga.
Alan: And we’re going, we’re going.
Ah, damn.
[thrilling music playing]
Come on. We g… We got to move.
Waze says 12 minutes via Chandler and Colfax.
Thelma: Look at that.
Who created that? Who thought it up?
A plug for a car.
Electricity goes through, makes it run.
But what is electricity? It boggles the mind.
[chuckles]
[scoffs]
Oh, I think I know her.
Can you go a little faster?
Yes, thank you.
God. Please.
I’m going the speed limit.
We are a law-abiding family.
[seat belt clicks]
Huh.
Wants me to make a left.
This is why I don’t use Waze.
It wants you to make all these crazy turns.
Marcy Wender’s husband was obsessed with Waze,
makes a psycho left, ends up in Vons.
Estimates are very accurate, Gail.
He paid thousands of dollars.
Gail: No they’re not.
Alan: It’s been proven.
Thelma: Do you know Vi? Vi Friedlander?
Maybe through Saul.
Thelma: Saul?
Gary’s kid. Gary Newman?
No, I don’t know them.
Oh. Did you go to Sinai?
No, we were at Beth Am.
You just look so terribly familiar to me.
Just have to ignore all your instincts
and trust the technology.
Technology is what got us into this mess
in the first place. Can you go back?
Alan: I can’t go back.
There’s someone behind us.
Alan: I see them.
Daniel: So, go.
I can’t go.
There’s a gap.
There’s a…
There’s a gap, Alan.
Daniel: Take it!
Go, just go.
[all shouting indistinctly]
Daniel: Go. Yes, yes.
Yes, yes, yes.
Yes, yes, yes.
[car horns honking]
Okay, okay, okay.
[shouting indistinctly]
Ah!
Yes, yes, I did.
[Gail sighing]
And we’re back to 12 minutes.
Gary Newman.
Ben: Oh, no. My Gary is Rozelle.
Thelma: Isn’t that interesting?
Two different Garys, but both Gary.
[music continues]
How do you know each other?
I guess we don’t.
[sighs] It seemed possible.
Alas.
[chuckles]
Have a lovely day.
You too.
[chuckles, sighs]
[Thelma gasps]
Ben: What?
What?
Thelma: Oh.
What happened?
It… it’s my grandson.
Gail: Mom! Thelma!
Daniel: Grandma!
Oh, it’s them. Come on, get out.
Gail: Thelma!
Alan and Daniel: Thelma!
Gail: Hi. Have you seen a woman
with, like, white hair? A real lady?
Gail: Thelma!
Alan: Thelma!
Gail: Thelma!
Alan: Thelma!
Oh, we can’t make that.
Daniel: Grandma.
Alan: What’s that? Is that…
Daniel: Grandma!
Gail: That is interesting.
Daniel: Oh, shit.
Gail: Thelma!
[Lyfe Line clicks, beeps]
[Thelma grunts]
Daniel: Oh, shit.
Gail: What?
Her Lifeline.
Alan: What is it? Do you have a location?
Gail: What’s it say?
She’s here.
She’s here.
Ah. Where? Oh.
[Lifeline beeping]
[beeping stops]
[music calms]
[music intensifies]
[pensive music playing]
[chuckles] We are crazy.
[both laugh]
[sighs, chuckles]
Gail: Could it have fallen off?
Not on its own.
Alan: Just to consider all our options,
is it… is it possible she had another TGA?
Her behavior’s erratic.
I… I don’t know. Yeah.
I mean, it seems like it’s within the realm of possibility.
I’m… I’m just… I’m going to Google it just to…
Daniel: I told her not to take it off.
Alan: “Acute onset of anterograde amnesia.”
I can’t remember if it was on her wrist in the car.
She likes her independence from that thing. She just…
Sometimes she puts it in her bag.
I… I can’t remember.
“…signs indicating damage to a particular area…”
Daniel: I should have walked her in.
It’s in the past. Hmm?
Why didn’t you?
She didn’t want me to.
Why didn’t she want you to?
I don’t know, Mom. I…
Alan: Don’t yell.
I’m sorry, I’m sorry, I just… I’m upset.
Gail: Yeah, we’re all upset.
This is exactly what we have been trying to avoid,
and now my mother is at large.
I can’t… I can’t do anything.
I literally can’t do anything. I’m such a little bitch.
Don’t call yourself that. God.
I truly have no ability to do anything.
I can’t do anything with my hands. I can’t…
What do you want to do with your hands?
I don’t know. Nothing. I just… I can’t…
I don’t know facts.
I have no qualifications for any jobs.
I… I can’t do math.
It’s basically why Allie and I aren’t together.
Because you couldn’t do math? I thought she could do math.
It’s just another thing that I can’t do.
I haven’t done the I.D.
because every time I go on the computer,
I get all confused by the stupid website
and all the classifications
and the… and the… and the terms.
Do you have visual, uh, what’s it?
Processing.
Processing issues?
Sure. Or maybe I’m just a stupid little bitch
who can’t do anything.
Don’t say “bitch.”
Stop.
Stop saying “bitch.”
I lost Grandma. Fuck!
[both sigh]
Ben: Think we’re getting closer?
Thelma?
Hang on.
What is it?
I don’t know where we are.
Ben: Oh, don’t say that.
Thelma: I thought we were heading north.
I’m gonna go find help.
Oh, no, Ben, give me a moment. Let me orient myself.
[scoffs] Ben.
[sighs]
Ben, don’t make a scene.
You don’t listen to me, Thel. You don’t listen to anybody.
If I listened to you, I’d be your roommate by now.
Go home, Ben. You don’t want to be here.
We should call your family.
Out of the question.
What about your grandson?
Thelma: No.
No.
Why?
Because I’m not like you, Ben.
As much as you may want me to be, I like to be useful.
We’re more alike than you think.
What’s that supposed to mean?
We’re old.
Diminished.
We’re a liability to the ones we love.
You can tell yourself different,
but you know that they’re worried sick.
What’s to worry about?
I move from point to point. I don’t complain.
I am the same. And you would be, too,
if you stopped feeling sorry for yourself.
It doesn’t work that way.
You start acting like a baby, people treat you like a baby.
Bullshit.
You know how I know? Because I couldn’t…
I couldn’t hear her when she fell.
We’re not what we were.
We’re the only ones left.
The least we can do is take care of each other.
Call your family.
I don’t need them. I don’t need you.
I just needed your scooter. [gasps]
[Thelma gasping]
[engine revs]
[tires screech]
[debris clattering]
[tires squeal, engine revving]
[scoffs] We were stopped.
Did you put the parking brake on?
I didn’t know there was one.
I didn’t know. I… I’m sorry, Ben.
You’re not sorry.
[somber music playing]
Ben, where are you going?
I’m not waiting!
[grunts softly]
Gail: We’ve all lost her before.
I’ve lost her at Gelson’s a few times.
The woman likes to keep moving.
Especially if she has that cart.
When she sets her mind to something,
there’s no stopping her.
She doesn’t eat, she doesn’t sleep.
She just, like, keeps that laser focus…
Hmm.
…till the task is done.
This is different than Gelson’s.
Alan: Well, I’m aware it’s different.
But she’s a grown woman
who’s a little faster than you would hope.
And you can’t be responsible for her
every second of every day.
We shouldn’t have put that on you.
It was too much.
I know that she’s not gonna live forever.
But I just… when it happens,
I want it to be not horrific, you know?
Like, a good death.
There is no good death.
[Gail speaking quietly]
I’m gonna take a walk.
Oh, can we go with you?
I’ll go with him.
I want to go with him.
No, no, no, no, I’m… I want to go alone.
I just need a little, um…
space to think.
Where are you walking?
Where are you gonna go?
I don’t know, just…
Do you… do you have your phone on you?
Gail: Please don’t keep it on silent.
No. Here. Take…
Can you do that for me?
…take this.
For my mental health?
I’m gonna be close. It’s fine.
Just… It’s fully charged.
Daniel: Okay.
Alan: And it just snaps on here.
There we go.
Have a nice walk. I love you.
I love you, too.
[suspenseful music playing]
[footsteps approaching]
[pants]
[cardiac monitor beeping]
[indistinct chatter over TV]
[Thelma gasps, groans]
[Thelma groans]
[groans] Oh. Oh.
Oh.
[groans, sobs]
[car engine revving]
[tires screeching]
[pensive music playing]
[whimpers]
[groans]
Oh.
[high-pitched beep]
[beep fades]
[gentle music playing]
[high-pitched beep]
Ah.
[sighs]
Thank you.
You’re welcome.
I’m sorry. About all of it.
But we gave it a good try, didn’t we?
Yes, we did.
[sniffles]
I lived with my parents till I was 23. [Sniffles]
Then I moved in with Teddy…
and I lived with him until I was 91.
I’ve lived just me for two years now.
Gets lonely sometimes.
And I miss Teddy.
But I… I tried sushi, and I liked that quite a bit.
I’ve enjoyed my time alone.
I guess I wanted more of it.
[vehicle approaching]
I think I know her.
Lois?
Thelma!
[chuckles]
We just saw Swan Lake.
And it was set during the Korean War,
so the dancers were all dressed like soldiers.
I… I don’t know that I understood it,
but it was beautifully staged. I think it was very political.
Sounds interesting.
Lois: It was, yes.
So, where can we take you?
Oh. Just home. Ben, what’s your address?
We’re heading to 1534 San Fernando Road.
[mellow music playing over radio]
Well, we’ve come this far. We might as well finish it.
Well, what about your show?
There is no show without Daddy Warbucks.
[chuckles]
[intriguing music playing]
[thud]
[bell dings]
[sighs]
Twenty-one.
What now?
We wait.
Allie: [over cellphone] Hi.
Daniel: Hey.
Thanks for picking up. Um…
Are you slinging those crunchy-crunchy tiki tacos?
Yeah. Yeah, that’s why they pay me the big bucks.
How’s it going with you?
Daniel: [over cellphone] Okay.
Um, bad, actually.
My grandma’s missing,
and I’m camped out at an old folks’ home
with my parents.
Wait, what? How?
She went to visit a friend,
and then they went missing together.
It’s been a couple hours so far.
I mean, the whole thing is just… I don’t know, it’s…
They didn’t sign out or anything,
but I was supposed to watch her, so…
Okay, well, uh, could she have just gone somewhere
without telling you guys?
Daniel: That’s what we thought.
We thought it could be a Souplantation situation.
Allie: [over cellphone] A… a what?
No, nothing. I mean, it’s possible, I guess.
Well, I only asked because she’s…
obsessed with errands, right?
Well, yeah. She has a healthy respect for errands.
Well, I know you really love her.
I’m sure you’re super worried, but…
Maybe she’s just doing something.
You know? On her own.
Yeah.
[soft music playing]
I hope so.
Hey, I’ve also been wanting to call you.
I was thinking about taking some classes,
maybe an adult math class,
or, like, just brush up on… on some of those essentials.
What are you talking about?
Daniel: Self-improvement.
I’m just saying I… I can learn to do more things,
adding and subtracting, uh, fractals.
Like, I can take the great leap from boy to man.
You’re driving me nuts, do you know that?
[laughs] I do. I… I do know that, very much.
Sorry. It’s so freaking hot in here.
Okay, well, go for a walk.
My folks asked me to stay close.
[Allie chuckles]
Well, if you ever take that great leap,
for what it’s worth, I think you could make it.
Oh, my God!
Allie: What?
[whispers] Um, there’s, uh, been a guy in here the whole time.
Thelma: We used to call bread the staff of life.
But now nobody wants to eat bread.
But there are delicious breads being made now.
It’s a conundrum.
And some people like toast with toppings.
Mm. Interesting.
The way we think about bread has changed, so.
You want bread? We’ve got bread.
There you go.
[Thelma chuckles softly]
Ugh!
[groans, spits]
Oh, it’s like a rock.
I couldn’t even chew it.
[grunts]
[bell dings]
[intriguing music playing]
Can you see him?
Ben: That’s him.
Ah, he’s coming out.
[door opening]
Oh, come on.
[grunts]
[Ben grunts]
You keep a lookout.
Uh, I’m gonna go in and try to talk to them.
If things get funny, you go for help.
How will I know?
Well, you’ll be with me.
[cellphone beeping]
Automated Voice: Microphone enabled.
Hearing aid connected.
[suspenseful music playing]
Thelma: Hello?
Ben: [over hearing aid] Thel, I think I see a door in the back.
Lamp down ahead. Lift those heels.
There’s a stack of loose Hummels, or…
or maybe they’re gnomes
or some kind of little animals.
Be… be careful.
Gets a little hairy up ahead.
Take your time.
[shattering]
Oh!
Ben: What happened?
Oh. W… what are you doing?
Thelma: It’s a mess.
Don’t clean!
Thelma: Well, you have to with glass. It’s not right.
Ben: Not now. Get your act together.
Easy, easy.
Thelma: Ah.
Uh, yes! Ah! Well done. Well done, Thel.
Okay. Let’s go.
Harvey: Yes, sir.
Hesitating is gonna cost you.
Yeah, quite a bit.
No, there’s gonna be some unpleasantness ahead.
I mean, we just don’t want him sitting in holding
any longer than he has to.
Yes, I know, but even good boys make mistakes.
[beads jangling]
[radio playing indistinctly]
Hi. May I help you?
Who’s that?
I’m Thelma. Thelma Post.
Huh.
You might recognize me.
From the telephone.
Hmm. No, I can’t say I do, ma’am.
Uh, at this moment in time, we’re closed.
But why don’t you come back tomorrow?
I’ve got a shipment of, uh, what do you call them?
A woman inside a woman inside a woman.
Uh, Russian nesting dolls?
Yeah.
Now, at least I think they’re women. I mean, I haven’t checked.
There may be a little fella in there somewhere. [Chuckles]
Where’s my money?
Sorry?
You heard me.
Yes, I heard you. I’m not sure I understood.
You called me.
You pretended to be my grandson.
You took advantage of me.
[tense music playing]
That’s a hefty accusation.
I think you’ve got the wrong idea.
Listen, buddy, I came a long way.
Hm, well, you’ve made a mistake.
That’s okay. You know, I make mistakes, too.
But let’s not make another.
[handbag rustling]
I’m… I’m contacting the authorities.
[line ringing]
Well, what are you gonna tell ’em?
You broke into my store?
Operator: [over cellphone] 9-1-1. What’s your emergency?
I’d like to report a robbery. Ah! Uh, uh…
[cellphone beeps, chimes]
The… Thel?
Thel, are you there?
Look, I just want you to know that it’s not personal.
I mean, we’re not selling like we used to.
People these days, they…
they don’t care about old things.
I’m just trying to keep the lights on.
We have a lot of lights.
So, it’s very expensive.
Yeah. Thank you, Michael.
I bet this whole thing has been a headache, huh?
Look, I don’t expect you to leave here empty-handed.
Why don’t we make a deal, huh?
I’ll keep your deposit,
but I’ll cut you in on the next one.
Yeah, I’m happy to negotiate.
I’ll give you the senior discount.
Well, that isn’t gonna work for me.
And you should know,
if I’m not out in five minutes,
my partner calls the cops.
You want me to beg?
Then I’ll beg.
[grunts]
[Thelma gasps]
Harvey: Look, what do you want me to do?
Give it back?
I’ll lose the store. I’ll be out on the street.
Nobody cares.
Nobody cares about me.
Everybody’s buying their shit on Amazon.
I just take what I need to survive.
So, why do you need it so bad?
Because it’s mine, and I decide who gets it.
You’re being unreasonable.
Michael, get my keys.
[Thelma groans]
[grunts]
Ah…
Uh, uh…
Huh?
No, no. I, uh…
Thelma: How did I… huh.
Uh, I, uh… oh. Ah.
I’m… I’m… I’m sorry.
I… I don’t recognize this pla…
Oh. I, uh…
I… I need to call my husband.
Hm. Of course.
What’s your name, dear?
I’m Harvey.
Harvey?
Harvey: Yeah.
Harvey? Harvey.
Harvey: Come and sit down now.
Harvey.
Harvey: We’ll call him. Yeah, yeah.
Talk to me, Thel. What’s going on?
I’m terribly sorry for the imposition.
[scoffs] Oh, please. It’s all right.
No. Happens to the best of us.
The mind is a funny thing.
Now, what’s your husband’s number?
I’ll get you home.
[gun cocking]
[music intensifies]
My money, Harvey.
Michael! Coward.
[thrilling music playing]
[glass shattering]
[Ben grunts]
Thelma: You were very convincing, Harvey.
Why, you could have been an actor.
Not a star, maybe, but even so, what a waste.
Do you know how to use that thing?
No.
[gunshot]
Fuck! Jesus Christ! Okay, okay, okay.
Where is it?
In there.
Where?
It’s been deposited into my account on the computer.
Well, get it out.
I can’t.
What do you mean, you can’t?
Michael does the computers.
Oh, this is ridiculous. Oh.
It’s just me and you now. [chuckles]
Ben: And me.
Who the fuck is that?
My friend.
Here. Here, you take this. I… I need both hands.
What happened to Michael?
I beat him up.
Where’s the mouse? There’s the mouse.
Come on. Move.
What? What is that? It’s a shoe!
It looks like a shoe.
It’s a shoe.
Ben, don’t look at it. Look at him.
W… what do I do with it? I… I’m gonna “X” it.
No, no, don’t do that!
Well, you don’t know what it is.
[mouse clicking]
That’s a baby.
Oh, God. I don’t know how to do this.
[music fades]
[cellphone vibrates]
Hello?
Thelma: [over cellphone] Danny?
Grandma! Oh, my God.
Are you… okay? Where are you?
Thelma: I’ll tell you,
but you have to promise me something.
What?
Thelma: Come alone.
[intriguing music playing]
[Gail sighs]
[cellphone vibrates]
Alan: Huh.
Gail: What?
His heart rate is slowing.
[thrilling music playing]
We’re getting closer.
Yeah, yeah. [Groans]
We’re getting closer.
I just… okay, now a little more,
little more, little more. Ah! Ah!
[suspenseful music playing]
[car engine revving]
[tires screech]
[thrilling music playing]
Tell me what you’re looking at!
It… it’s a family and a baby, and they’re everywhere.
Daniel: [over cellphone] Great, great. Are there words?
Thelma: Yeah, it says, uh, Lincoln Mutual.
Yep! It’s an ad. You need to find the “X.”
Well, there’s no red “X.”
No, but it’s not always red.
Sometimes they hide it, so look closer.
Top right.
I “X” ed it.
Daniel: Great! Um…
[cellphone vibrates]
Daniel: Remember the… the computer’s the library, and the search bar’s the librarian.
You’re gonna ask it for information, and then it’s gonna give it to you.
Thelma: [over cellphone] Where is the bank?
Ye… uh, are you talking to me?
No, I… I’m asking the machine.
It can’t hear you.
Is there a Sari or a Siri, or is she not in there?
She’s not there. That… that’s in your phone.
But y… you don’t need her.
Thelma: I don’t talk to her.
She talks to me.
“Valley…” financial… dot-com.
Hit “Enter.” You see “Enter”?
Thelma: I’m in!
What’s the password?
I don’t know.
Look around you. Is there, uh, a notebook or a desk, papers, anything like that?
Oh, my God.
Daniel: What?
The password is “Password.”
Daniel: Classic!
Now, click inside of that box and type that in.
[chuckles] That’s cute.
Goddamn dumb-ass. Password, Michael?
Come on!
[car horn honks]
I’m moving to “Transfer.”
Oh, God.
What?
It wants me to join a gym!
No, I… I’m gonna tell it no.
Good. Remember what we do?
The “X,” no matter the color.
Daniel: That’s right!
I’m in.
Yes!
Thelma: Be ready in five.
Okay, I’ll be there soon.
[keyboard clacking]
[sighs] Oh, Jesus.
[objects clattering]
[music fades]
Harvey: Uh, no! Oof.
[gasping]
[air hissing]
I assume it was you on the phone pretending to be Danny.
He doesn’t have the range.
I’m not your grandma.
But if I was, I’d tell you there comes a time when you can’t listen to anyone but yourself.
[pensive music playing]
He called you a dumb-ass.
He said it quietly, but I heard it.
Ah! [Breathes deeply]
You’re insane.
[sighing heavily]
Is that it?
That’s it.
And he can’t get it back?
[breathes heavily]
Hey, wait!
[breathes heavily] He can’t get it back.
Don’t take people’s money.
Clean up your store.
Be nicer to Michael.
This whole thing has been really ridiculous.
[sighs] And don’t smoke.
[dramatic music playing]
What?
I didn’t say anything.
Oh.
[car engine roaring]
[tires screech]
Get in!
[soft music playing]
Did you get it?
We got it.
[laughs]
[chuckles softly]
Oh, Danny, Danny, you remember Ben.
Yeah. Hey, Ben, it’s really great to see you.
Ben: Good to see, Danny. How you doing?
Daniel: I’m all right. Yeah.
[emergency alert blaring]
Ben: Whoa. Whoa-ho-ho-ho-ho. We’re famous.
Ha, ha! [Chuckles]
[Thelma chuckles]
Hello!
Today was a good day.
I hope you know I’m gonna buy you a new scooter and a new phone.
Oh, well, maybe we can go out to lunch someday.
Thelma: I’d like that.
We could try the famous Belwood cafeteria.
I hear they have terrific melons.
[both laugh]
Or… we could go out.
Both good options.
We’ll make a plan, dear.
Good, good, good.
[chuckles]
Ben: Ah!
You be well.
I will.
Break a leg, Ben!
[Thelma chuckles]
Does he know what that means?
I’m not sure.
He’s new to the theater, and his hip is titanium.
Detective Morgan: But he didn’t say anything?
Gail: No, but he… he…
Has Daniel ever wandered off like this before?
Gail: Never. Not like this.
Oh, my God! Mom! Oh!
Your eye. Are you okay?
I’m all right, darling. I’m all right.
Gail: Oh, we were so worried about you!
Ah!
[smacks lips, sighs]
You drove.
I did.
You went back to the buffet.
[chuckles]
[chuckles softly]
I did.
What happened?
[chuckles]
Well, I’ll tell you everything, but there’s something I’d like to do first, if you would indulge me.
Of course!
I’m just Annie, Mr. Warbucks, sir.
I’m sorry I’m not a… a boy.
Resident: It’s her first night here, sir.
Well, Annie, how would you like to go to a movie?
And then you could go to The Roxy
and then some ice cream soda at Rumpelmayer’s, and then a cab ride around Central Park.
Um, well…
Yeah, wow.
Golly. Golly, Daddy, Mr. Warbucks.
It’s a strange show!
[shushes]
[birds chirping]
[gentle music playing]
[music continues]
[Thelma chuckles]
[music fades]
I’m glad to come here.
These are good graves.
Do you like them?
Yeah. As in, what?
Do I want to be buried in them?
[chuckles] I got a ton of graves.
Oh, yeah?
Beautiful graves.
Some here.
Mostly back in New York.
Uh, does Allie plan on being buried in a Jewish cemetery?
Oh, I don’t know, you know?
We haven’t really had the graves conversation yet.
[chuckles]
Taking it slow.
Oh, we may have enough.
You get very greedy.
You want to see what’s gonna happen to those you love.
[gentle music playing]
I love you.
And if you ever do die,
I’m really, really, really gonna miss you.
And I know you know that, but I just, uh…
I wanted to say that while we’re here.
While we’re here.
Wherever I go…
I’m not gonna worry about you.
You’re gonna be okay, Danny.
[sniffling]
[music continues]
Look… look at the bottoms of those trees.
I mean, look how gnarled they are, and yet they live.
Look.
I’m looking.
Thelma: You should be taking
photographs of this.
[laughs]
Thelma: Is this unbelievable?
Daniel: It’s incredible.
Yeah, I mean, it’s unbelievable.
Look at this. This thing is still alive.
Daniel: What? This tree?
Yeah, look at it.
It should be down on the ground.
Thelma: But it’s unbelievable.
[laughs] It’s crazy!
What spirit.
[music continues]
Newscaster: [over TV] Airlines are expecting to make ten billion dollars in profit this year, despite fears of a looming economic slowdown around the world.
This as the international air transport…
[cockroach scurrying]
[music swells]
[music stops]
Newscaster: It marks a significant rebound to near pre-pandemic levels, even with high inflation and rising interest rates way up.
In a look at markets around the world right now,
Asian markets finished…
[intriguing music playing]
[chuckles]
[thrilling music playing]
[music fades]
Look at all those…
Look at all those bottoms of those trees.
Look… look at how gnarled they are, and yet they live.
Look. Look. Look at photographs of this.
Is this unbelievable? I mean, it’s unbelievable.
Look at this. This thing is still living.
Look.
Josh: This tree?
Yeah, look at it. It should be down on the…
I mean, it’s unbelievable.
Josh: It’s crazy.
What spirit. Look.
Look!
Josh: Ah! [Laughing]
[gentle music playing]
[intriguing music playing]
