In this fresh coming-of-age story, an 18th birthday mushroom trip brings free-spirited Elliott (Maisy Stella) face-to-face with her wisecracking 39-year-old self (Aubrey Plaza). But when Elliott’s “old ass” starts handing out warnings about what her younger self should and shouldn’t do, Elliott realizes she has to rethink everything about family, love, and what’s becoming a transformative summer.
REVIEW:
Aubrey Plaza, known for her deadpan humor and quirky roles, shines as Older Elliott. Her performance here is a delightful departure from her more intense role in “Megalopolis.” In “My Old Ass,” Plaza brings a blend of sardonic wit and heartfelt sincerity, making her character both hilarious and endearing. It’s a testament to her versatility as an actress, proving she can navigate both the comedic and dramatic with equal finesse.
Maisy Stella, as the younger Elliott, captures the essence of youthful exuberance and confusion. Her portrayal is both charming and relatable, a far cry from her previous roles. Stella’s chemistry with Plaza is palpable, and their interactions are the heart of the film. She brings a fresh, authentic energy that complements Plaza’s seasoned performance, making their scenes together a joy to watch.
Director Megan Park, in her feature debut, manages to balance the film’s comedic elements with its more poignant moments. She deftly handles the time-travel premise, ensuring it serves the story rather than overshadowing it. However, there are moments where the pacing falters, and some jokes feel a bit forced. Despite these minor hiccups, Park’s direction is confident and her vision clear.
The screenplay, while clever and often laugh-out-loud funny, occasionally dips into cliché territory. The dialogue between the two Elliotts is sharp and witty, but some of the supporting characters feel underdeveloped. The film’s strength lies in its exploration of themes like self-discovery and the passage of time, but it sometimes struggles to maintain a consistent tone.
“My Old Ass” stands out in the time-travel genre for its unique blend of humor and heart. Unlike the romantic “About Time,” this film embraces its absurdity while still delivering a meaningful message. It’s a film that doesn’t take itself too seriously, yet manages to leave a lasting impression.
“My Old Ass” is a delightful romp through time, anchored by stellar performances from Aubrey Plaza and Maisy Stella. Megan Park’s directorial debut is a promising start, and despite a few missteps, the film is a charming addition to the time-travel genre. If you’ve ever wondered what you’d say to your younger self, this film offers a humorous and heartfelt answer.
“My Old Ass”” gets a 3.5/5 or a B+.
CREDITS:
Directed by
Written by
Megan Park
Produced by
- Tom Ackerley
- Margot Robbie
- Josey McNamara
- Steven Rales
Starring
- Maisy Stella
- Percy Hynes White
- Maddie Ziegler
- Kerrice Brooks
- Aubrey Plaza
Cinematography
Kristen Correll
Edited by
Jennifer Vecchiarello
Music by
- Tyler Hilton
- Jaco Caraco
Production
companies
Distributed by
Release dates
- January 20, 2024(Sundance)
- September 13, 2024(United States)
Running time
89 minutes[1]
Country
United States
Language
English
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