Talk ’90s to me Thelma & Louise – The ’90s most important chick flick
Nov 17, 2025
This week features Sarah Morgan, a comedy writer known for her work on Geek Girl, who dives into the cultural impact of Thelma & Louise. She discusses the film's liberating narrative and how it reshaped perceptions of chick flicks. Sarah reveals fascinating insights about casting, including the last-minute choice of Brad Pitt and Meryl Streep’s notable influence. They also analyze iconic scenes, character development, and the critical backlash that sparked vital conversations about feminism in Hollywood.
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Casting Took Many Turns
- Miranda and Sarah discuss the long casting road where many big names were considered, including Michelle Pfeiffer, Jodie Foster and Meryl Streep.
- Geena Davis campaigned persistently and eventually won Thelma while Susan Sarandon took Louise.
Brad Pitt's Rapid Breakthrough
- Brad Pitt won the JD role in a last-minute casting and was paid around $6,000 for a short shoot.
- Geena Davis was so flustered by his looks during audition that Ridley Scott chose 'the blonde' for the part.
Charm Beats Sleaze For JD
- Sarah Morgan notes Brad Pitt's JD succeeded because he played manners and polite charm rather than sleaze, making the character compelling.
- Ridley Scott's styling and POV shooting amplified Pitt's screen magnetism.
