Susan Sarandon and Geena Davis reunited at 90s Con 2024 in Hartford, Connecticut to discuss the enduring impact of their iconic 1991 film, Thelma & Louise. Directed by Ridley Scott, the feminist empowerment tale follows the journey of Thelma and Louise as they embark on a run from the law after a life-altering event.
The film, which also featured a stellar supporting cast including Brad Pitt in a breakout role, garnered critical acclaim and was nominated for five Academy Awards in 1992. While the duo did not win in their respective acting categories, the film's screenwriter, Callie Khouri, took home the award for Best Original Screenplay.
During the panel discussion, Davis shared how Thelma & Louise changed her life, propelling her career in a new direction. The film's success led to a shift in the way fans approached her, with many expressing how the movie resonated with them on a personal level.
Sarandon reflected on the unique experience of both actresses being nominated in the Best Actress category, highlighting the rarity of such occurrences in the industry. The camaraderie between Sarandon and Davis was evident as they recalled their initial meeting and collaboration on the film, with Davis expressing admiration for Sarandon's unapologetic nature.
Following her success in groundbreaking female-centric films like Thelma & Louise and A League of Their Own, Davis went on to establish the Geena Davis Institute on Gender In Media in 2004. The institute advocates for gender balance and diversity in media representation, a cause for which Davis received an honorary Oscar in 2019.
Davis emphasized the importance of inclusivity in storytelling, encouraging creators to consider gender and diversity when developing characters. By making simple adjustments, such as changing a character's gender or name, creators can contribute to a more balanced and representative media landscape.
The reunion of Sarandon and Davis at 90s Con 2024 served as a reminder of the lasting impact of Thelma & Louise and the ongoing efforts to promote diversity and gender parity in the entertainment industry.
