Factual error: When they're trying to head to Mexico, they pass the same rock formations several times. Specifically, earlier in the drive, the formations are in the scene where they mention the Rocky Mountains. The same formations can be seen later when they get pulled over by the cop. It's like they're driving in circles. Part of the film was shot outside of Moab, Utah, near Arches National Park. (01:34:19 - 01:41:30)
Factual error: After JD steals Louise's money, Thelma decides to rectify the fact that they're broke by robbing a convenience store in Oklahoma. She holds the clerk at gunpoint, asks for all the cash, and then requests he hand over a bottle of booze. The problem is, due to the liquor laws in Oklahoma, one can only buy 3.2 beer and wine coolers at grocery stores and convenience stores, not "hard" alcohol.
Factual error: As the Highway Patrol officer approaches T&L we see that there is a carrier for 12 rounds of ammo (obviously for a revolver most likely a .38 Spl or .357 magnum) on his gun belt. When he surrenders his weapon we find it is a semi-automatic pistol. The cartridges on his belt would not be compatible with a semi-automatic pistol which he was carrying.
Chosen answer: It's just as you said; he was telling the others to hold their fire. He had no idea that they were going to drive off the cliff; his reaction was evidence of this.
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