As a seasoned cinephile with decades of movie-watching under my belt, I can confidently say that “My Old Ass” is a poignant and thought-provoking film that resonates deeply with the human experience. The premise of a young woman encountering her older self is both creative and profound, offering a stark reminder of the importance of cherishing our present moments.
Ponder this scenario: Suppose your 39-year-old self suddenly appeared during your teenage years, offering advice about the future that could change your life. Would you listen to these warnings or ignore them, choosing instead to boldly follow a path that might lead to heartache and destruction? This captivating and emotionally resonant idea forms the basis of My Old Ass. Megan Park, the writer and director, brilliantly portrays the exuberance and hopefulness of youth, but also delivers a sobering reminder about the perils of growing up. What we often value and consider inviolable can be lost with ease. Time is relentless in its demands. Wisely, Park encourages us to cherish our friends and loved ones in the present.
18-year-old Elliott Labrant, portrayed by Maisy Stella, shares laughter with her closest friends as their small boat bumps into a pier. Before she heads off to college in Toronto in a few weeks, Elliott has an essential task at hand. Elliott, who is openly queer and smitten with the local barista, is encouraged by Ruthie (Maddie Ziegler) and Ro (Kerrice Brooks) to attempt a brief fling. The friends then spontaneously decide to celebrate Elliott’s prospective boat encounter with an unexpected trip to a neighboring island.
In their camping preparations, Elliott disregards phone calls from her mother (Maria Dizzia), unaware that her entire family is gathered with a birthday cake in anticipation. Despite adoring her parents and two younger brothers, Elliott yearns to escape the monotony of their cranberry farm. Ro takes out a stash of magic mushrooms for an adventurous trip. The group finds it hard to swallow the tea but manage to drink it anyway. As Elliott watches her friends experience hallucinations, she questions why the effect isn’t taking hold on her. However, these specific mushrooms were about to take her on a uniquely transformative journey.
The Trip Begins
Instantly disbelieving she was face-to-face with her own future, Elliott is left astonished when the older version of herself, played by Aubrey Plaza, makes an appearance. However, it’s not just their shared appearance that leaves Elliott in a state of shock; it’s also the comedic confirmation of their identity.
In a surprising turn of events, Elliott encounters Chad in an awkward situation the following day. This tall, charming college student has secured a summer job on the farm. Without a moment’s hesitation, he is captivated by the enchanting and spirited Elliott. What works best to pique a teenager’s interest? Offer a forbidden fruit and observe as human nature unfolds. However, Elliot finds it difficult to resist her curiosity. Why does this quirky guy pose a threat to her future well-being?
In a poignant second act, Stella, well-known for her roles on Nashville and country music performances, experiences profound growth. This transformation challenges nearly everything she believed in her life. Despite not being perpetually under the influence of hallucinogenic mushrooms, Elliott’s interactions with her future self introduce a disquieting element of uncertainty. Elliott apologizes and shows genuine gratitude towards her loved ones. Initially perceived as insignificant nuisances, Elliott’s parents and siblings become invaluable treasures to her. However, it is the blossoming affection for the endearing Chad that significantly shakes Elliott’s core beliefs.
Navigating Life with a Little Help from My Old Ass
In a past role on the television series “The Secret Life of the American Teenager,” Park explores the topic of sexuality in a multi-faceted manner. At first, Elliott, played by Park, jokes about heterosexual couples and criticizes the global patriarchy, much like a popular social media post. The thought of being attracted to Chad initially conflicted with all her deeply held values. However, Elliott can’t ignore her strong feelings for him. Could she be bisexual or pansexual? Or might she just be heterosexual? Elliott is unsure and learns that being open to various options is not wrong. She must embrace different possibilities or risk missing out on a wonderful opportunity.
It’s not necessary to have prophetic abilities like Nostradamus to see where Park’s story is going. She sets up her intentions clearly from the start to create a climax that packs an emotional punch, like a freight train. The pleasures of youth are inescapably shadowed by tragedy. It’s unavoidable to experience sorrow, grief, and loss. These emotions are deeply ingrained in our lives. As Elliott grows older, she attempts to shield herself from despair by charting a path without it. However, this is futile, and the lesson of Park’s story is that such an endeavor is pointless. Prepare for tears when Elliott ultimately comprehends the hidden truths, and her courageous decisions following the shocking revelations.
In a simpler and more conversational style:
The film titled “My Old Ass” is a collaboration between Indian Paintbrush, LuckyChap Entertainment, and Scythia Films. On September 13th, it’s set to hit theaters courtesy of Amazon MGM Studios for distribution.
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2024-09-13 00:35