Spoilers still have some growing up to do.
One of the less obvious aspects of being able to create anything in film is that you don’t need to create anything to prove it possible. This is hardly an spoiler, but if you expect some sort of sci-fi heavy explanation to how this film’s premise is possible, you can forget it now. This feature concerns more growing up and this is the game playing to its strengths.
My Old Ass (2024) is written and directed by Megan Park. Elliott (Maisy Stella) is a teenage free spirit who loves who she wants to love. She often neglects her time with family, something she doesn’t do out of spite but just out of seeking her own fun. In the eve of finally leaving for college, she goes camping with her friends and takes some mushrooms. All of sudden, a 39-old version of herself, her “Old Ass” (Aubrey Plaza) appears next to her. As both version start talking and sharing, Older Elliott gives out some advice, as well as a warning.
This is one of those comedies that actually have a very subtle existential angle in way that’s easy to digest. Plaza shines with her impeccable comedic timing, but after the first encounter her character is fine being in the background and becoming her conscience. Contrary to what you might think, there’s no forced hilarity exploiting the situation. It’s an honest portrayal of a character forcing herself to explore her current world in the present time frame, before she leaves the nest.
It works. The comedy is never forced or staged. The humour comes out of the awkwardness of youth and genuine naivete of growing up. Everyone acts like a real person and there’s no categories or stereotypical caricatures from the trope book. This feels like an actual community. Don’t expect bullies or makeover scenes or prom skits. There are sincere heartfelt moments that are nostalgic, cathartic or bittersweet.
Highly recommended as an honest coming-of-age comedy that does not judge or condemn any of its characters. That being said, casual audiences looking for something hilarious or family friendly might end up disappointed. Very much worth a watch.
That will do for now.
Never Think Impossible 