A Fresh Take on Growing Up and Self-Reflection
Megan Park’s MY OLD ASS offers a unique, hilarious, and heartwarming look at the complex journey of self-discovery. With brilliant performances from Maisy Stella and Aubrey Plaza, this coming-of-age story is not just another teenage comedy; it dives into emotional depth and examines how we change and grow, even when we think we’ve got it all figured out. For teens and adults alike, MY OLD ASS creates an accessible space for viewers to reflect on their lives, relationships, and the decisions that define them.
A Stellar Cast That Shines Brightly
The film centers on Elliott, a free-spirited teen portrayed by Maisy Stella, whose performance truly stands out. Her portrayal of an 18-year-old navigating life’s ups and downs feels authentic, blending humor, frustration, and vulnerability. Stella captures the essence of a teen in transition—confident one moment, confused the next. Aubrey Plaza, who plays Elliott’s 39-year-old self, is the perfect counterpart. Plaza brings her signature wit and dry humor to the role, contrasting the teenage Elliott’s carefree attitude and the more mature, reflective version of herself.
The chemistry between Stella and Plaza is what makes the film so special. Their interactions—both comedic and profound—highlight the internal struggles many of us face as we grow older. Whether it’s their banter or their more heartfelt conversations, they deliver strong, relatable performances that ground the film’s more surreal aspects.
Navigating Emotional Depths with Humor and Grace
While the film is filled with humorous moments, it also tackles deeply emotional topics. Director and writer Megan Park does an excellent job of balancing these two elements, ensuring the film never becomes too heavy or too light. The plot might seem whimsical at first, especially with the premise of a mushroom-induced encounter between the younger and older versions of Elliott, but it unfolds into something much more poignant.
One of the film’s strengths is its ability to explore universal themes like family dynamics, identity, love, and the unpredictability of the future. These are topics that both teens and adults will connect with, especially as Elliott grapples with her relationships, her sexuality, and her future. The film encourages viewers to reflect on their own lives, prompting questions like; Am I on the right path? Have I lost sight of what matters most? These reflective moments resonate, creating a balance between lightheartedness and introspection.
A Story for Teens and Adults Alike
MY OLD ASS is a rare film that can connect with audiences of all ages. For teens, it’s a funny and relatable journey of self-discovery, but for adults, it serves as a reminder of the paths we’ve taken and the person we’ve become. Watching Elliott interact with her future self offers a unique perspective on how life can surprise us, how we sometimes deviate from our plans, and how we can learn to accept the unexpected.
The film doesn’t shy away from the confusion and uncertainty of growing up, and this is where its real power lies. It shows the messy, complicated process of figuring out who you are, while also acknowledging that we’re always growing, even into adulthood. There’s a sense of comfort in seeing that both Elliott’s younger and older selves are still working things out, offering a message of hope that we don’t have to have it all figured out, no matter our age.
A Visual Feast and Strong Direction
Megan Park’s direction is another standout aspect of the film. She skillfully captures both the whimsical and emotional sides of Elliott’s journey, using dreamlike sequences to enhance the surreal elements of the plot without making them feel disconnected from the emotional core of the story. The scenes that take place during Elliott’s mushroom trip, for example, are visually engaging and contribute to the film’s overall tone of playful self-exploration.
The cinematography adds to the emotional depth as well, contrasting Elliott’s beautiful, idyllic home life on the island with the looming future of city life in Toronto. These visual cues serve as subtle reminders of the changes awaiting Elliott as she prepares to leave home, helping to underscore the bittersweet nature of growing up.
A Memorable Ensemble Cast
Although Maisy Stella and Aubrey Plaza are the heart of the film, the supporting cast also deserves recognition. Percy Hynes White plays Chad, a mysterious figure who complicates Elliott’s plans and adds another layer of confusion to her life. His charm and understated performance bring an important dynamic to the film as Elliott is faced with new questions about her sexuality and future.
Kerrice Brooks as Ro and Maddie Ziegler as Ruthie also bring life to the trio of best friends, offering moments of humor and insight. Their friendship feels genuine, and their interactions provide a solid foundation for Elliott’s emotional journey. The relationships in the film—whether with family, friends, or love interests—are what drive the plot forward and keep the audience invested.
Life Lessons with a Side of Laughter
MY OLD ASS manages to convey important life lessons without feeling preachy. The film tackles issues like identity, family bonds, and self-love with a light touch, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own experiences while enjoying the humor and absurdity of Elliott’s situation. One of the key takeaways is the idea that real love, as Elliott’s older self puts it, is both safety and freedom—a concept that’s left for viewers to interpret in their own way.
The film reminds us that while life may not always go according to plan, there’s value in embracing the unexpected. Elliott’s journey shows that sometimes the best thing we can do is listen to ourselves—both the person we are now and the person we’re becoming.
Conclusion: A Must-Watch Coming-of-Age Story
Megan Park’s MY OLD ASS is a refreshing, funny, and emotionally resonant film that will leave a lasting impact on its viewers. Whether you’re a teenager on the brink of adulthood or an adult looking back at your younger years, this film will resonate with you in more ways than one. With standout performances, a well-crafted story, and a perfect balance of humor and emotion, MY OLD ASS is a must-watch for anyone who appreciates a good coming-of-age tale with a twist.
This film offers both laughter and reflection, making it a memorable addition to the coming-of-age genre. Don’t miss out on this charming and thoughtful journey of self-discovery.
