Joey Magidson
What would you say to your younger self if you could visit them? By that same token, what would you want your older self to come to you and tell you? We’ve all considered these things, so My Old Ass starts off in a position of unusual relatability for a high concept indie flick. However, what easily could have been a stoner comedy or mostly just a funny film is instead interestingly melancholic. In being a dramedy, the movie is all the better for it.
My Old Ass has plenty of funny moments, don’t get me wrong, but there’s a longing for what we lose as we grow up that this film takes stock of. That extra layer may be a bit unexpected for some viewers, but the end result is a more fulfilling movie than it appears like on the surface. You’ll see the big reveal coming, but it still will be just as effective, due to a soft touch by all involved.
On her 18th birthday, Elliott (Maisy Stella) and her friends decide to take a mushroom trip. While the other two girls are having a grand old time, Elliott suddenly comes face-to-face with her older self (Aubrey Plaza). This version is 39 and is not who Elliott expected to be. Thinking it was just a bad trip, she goes about her life, but notices that her “old ass” has put her number in her phone. When that communication works, they begin to talk more.
Initially, Elliott just wants to know what she’ll grow up to be. However, her “old ass” also has some warnings to hand out. One in particular is about how she should avoid Chad (Percy Hynes White) at all costs. She tries to do so, but of course, begins getting closer to him. As she navigates that, she also re-evaluates her relationship with her family, knowing she’ll be leaving the family farm for college, as well as her evolving sexuality. Rethinking everything, this summer will become one that will change her forever.
Aubrey Plaza and Maisy Stella have a terrific chemistry together. While they’re not identical looking, their vibes and voice have you buy in immediately. Plaza is soft-peddling her particular wit to play an older and potentially wiser version of what she’s done before, while Stella plays the other end very well. Watching them in action is a pleasure, especially when together. In addition to a charming Percy Hynes White, the supporting players include Kerrice Brooks, Maria Dizzia, Alain Goulem, Seth Isaac Johnson, Carter Trozzolo, Maddie Ziegler, and more.
Filmmaker Megan Park clearly is speaking from experience here, but still manages to make My Old Ass wildly entertaining. The direction isn’t necessarily setting cinema on fire, but the writing has plenty to say. Whether it’s how Elliott interacts with her family, her friends, her lovers, or herself, there’s an air not just of authenticity, but wit. Even the surprise of the third act, which is very easy to figure out, still lands because you care. You laugh, sure, but you’re also invested in the emotions.
My Old Ass surprised me by being a bit fuller of an experience than expected. A generation ago, this film would have been a huge hit. Now, it’s the sort of indie movie that eventually finds a home on a streaming service. That’s a shame, but this is still something worth checking out. The flick has extra layers, which leads to a viewing that lingers more than you’d have guessed. Kudos to all involved.
SCORE: ★★★
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