Susan Sarandon

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Lore & Background

In *Thelma & Louise*, Susan Sarandon plays Louise, a sharp-tongued waitress who sets out on a weekend vacation with her friend Thelma, played by Geena Davis. After Louise fatally shoots a man who attempted to rape Thelma, the two flee toward Mexico. During their journey, Louise receives her life savings from her non-committal musician boyfriend Jimmy, played by Michael Madsen, but the money is stolen by a drifter named J.D., played by Brad Pitt. The film culminates in a high-speed chase with the FBI, ending at the edge of the Grand Canyon, where the women choose to drive off a cliff rather than be captured. Sarandon's performance was nominated for Best Actress at the 64th Academy Awards, and the film won Best Original Screenplay for Callie Khouri.

Reader's Guide

Susan Sarandon's role in *Thelma & Louise* is a key part of her career. The film was a critical and commercial success, receiving six nominations at the 64th Academy Awards. Sarandon was nominated for Best Actress alongside her co-star Geena Davis. The film has been recognized as a landmark of feminist film and was selected for preservation in the National Film Registry in 2016. Sarandon's performance as Louise, a character who takes decisive action after a traumatic event, contributed to the film's lasting impact. The film also featured a supporting cast including Harvey Keitel, Christopher McDonald, and Brad Pitt.

Did You Know?

• Susan Sarandon was nominated for Best Actress at the 64th Academy Awards for her role in *Thelma & Louise*.
• The film *Thelma & Louise* was directed by Ridley Scott and written by Callie Khouri.
• Filming for *Thelma & Louise* took place in California and Utah from June to August 1990.
• The film was selected for preservation in the National Film Registry in 2016.
• Sarandon's co-star in *Thelma & Louise* was Geena Davis, who was also nominated for Best Actress.