My Old Ass is a delightful, genre-bending comedy-drama that successfully marries elements of science fiction with an intimate, heartfelt exploration of self-discovery. Directed by Megan Park and starring Aubrey Plaza and Maisy Stella as different versions of the same character, this film takes a whimsical premise and turns it into a deeply meaningful journey. With its witty dialogue, brilliant performances, and perfect balance of humor and emotion, My Old Ass manages to be both lighthearted and profound.
Table of Contents
Introduction
The film revolves around Elliott (Maisy Stella), a free-spirited, carefree young woman who unexpectedly encounters her 39-year-old self (Aubrey Plaza) during a mind-bending mushroom trip. While the sci-fi element is central to the plot, it serves more as a clever narrative tool than a focus, providing the audience with a fantastical way to explore the themes of growing up, love, family, and the unpredictability of life. Elliott’s older self brings with her a slew of warnings, urging young Elliott to reconsider many of her life choices. What follows is a heartfelt and often hilarious back-and-forth as the two versions of Elliott grapple with their shared identity, desires, and the harsh truths about growing up.
Performances
Aubrey Plaza and Maisy Stella shine in their respective roles. Plaza, with her signature dry wit, perfectly embodies the older Elliott, portraying a character who is simultaneously worn-out yet hopeful, wise yet not without her flaws. Her delivery of deadpan humor and sarcastic lines brings a unique charm to the character, making the older Elliott someone viewers can relate to and root for.
On the other hand, Maisy Stella captures the essence of youthful exuberance mixed with naïve confidence. Her portrayal of young Elliott is raw and authentic, bringing endearing energy to the screen that highlights the stark contrast between the two versions of the character. The chemistry between Plaza and Stella is spot-on; they work together seamlessly, making their exchanges believable and genuinely touching. Watching the two navigate Elliott’s potential future pitfalls and possibilities is both entertaining and thought-provoking.
Direction and Storytelling
Megan Park, who previously impressed audiences with her feature film debut The Fallout, directs My Old Ass with an exquisite blend of humor and poignancy. She takes a potentially complex narrative about time and self-reflection and grounds it in relatable human experiences. Park’s direction is careful not to lean too heavily into the sci-fi element, which could have easily overshadowed the film’s emotional core. Instead, she uses the fantastical encounter between Elliott’s younger and older selves as a springboard for conversations about choices, regrets, and the inevitability of change.
The writing is crisp, funny, and loaded with insightful dialogue that resonates well beyond the whimsical setup. The screenplay skillfully balances comedy and drama, with the film’s comedic moments landing perfectly without undermining the deeper themes at play. There’s a natural, easy-going flow to the story, which ensures that while the sci-fi premise is always present, it never detracts from the film’s genuine exploration of its characters and their emotional journeys.
Themes and Emotional Impact
My Old Ass explores themes of self-awareness, growth, and the passage of time in a refreshingly light yet meaningful way. Elliott’s mushroom-induced encounter with her older self serves as a wake-up call, prompting the audience to ponder their own life choices and how they might view their past decisions in the future. It’s a relatable message wrapped in humor and whimsy, making it accessible and engaging for viewers of all ages.
The film strikes a perfect balance between its heartwarming and comedic moments. Just when the narrative seems to drift towards heavier territory, a clever joke or humorous interaction pulls it back, maintaining a light tone throughout. Despite its comedic exterior, the film leaves a lasting emotional impact, reminding viewers of the importance of embracing change, making peace with the past, and remaining open to the uncertainties of the future.
Conclusion
My Old Ass is a rare gem that skillfully blends comedy, drama, and a dash of science fiction into a delightful, thought-provoking experience. With outstanding performances from Aubrey Plaza and Maisy Stella, sharp direction from Megan Park, and a script that perfectly balances humor with heartfelt moments, this film is both entertaining and enlightening.
Ultimately, My Old Ass stands out as a movie that transcends its premise, using a fantastical encounter to tell a story that’s universally human. It’s not just about a trip-induced meeting between two versions of the same person; it’s about the journey of self-discovery, the struggle of coming to terms with who we are versus who we hoped to be, and finding humor and grace along the way. This film is a must-watch for anyone looking for an inspiring, laugh-out-loud experience that leaves a warm glow long after the credits roll.
About My Old Ass
Synopsis: A mushroom trip brings free-spirited Elliott face-to-face with her 39-year-old self. But when Elliott’s “old ass” delivers warnings to her younger self, Elliott realizes she has to rethink everything about her family, life and love.
Director: Megan Park
Writer: Megan Park
Cast: Maisy Stella, Aubrey Plaza, Percy Hynes White, Maddie Ziegler, Kerrice Brooks, Maria Dizzia
Rated: R
Runtime: 1h 29m
Releases: September 13, 2024
he/him • aapi • intj • geek • photographer • journalist • podcaster • martial artist • foodie • dj • cinephile • gamer • traveler
