My Old Ass has a very simple premise, one it doesn’t even take the effort of explaining. For whatever reason, 18-year-old Elliot meets her 39-year-old self, and they talk at length about life. Naturally, older Elliot gives her younger self some advice to improve her life. But she also gives her a grave warning: under no circumstances must she be with a man named Chad. The film then follows younger Elliot as she tries to heed her advice and learn a lot about life in the process. Now, on paper, that may sound like sentimental schmaltz, but the two actresses playing Elliot—Stella and Plaza—are what make the film so grounded and enjoyable. Stella is bursting with life and energetic humor, while Plaza delivers her signature stoic wit. That’s not to say she’s lifeless though. By the time the climax rolls in, you’ll be struggling to keep the tears in.
"Park’s film is modest, but it’s grounded in the inner terrain of its characters in a way that makes it feel substantial."
— Alison Willmore
"The bond between Plaza and Stella is strong enough to sell the film’s central big idea with ease."
— Kate Erbland
An 18th birthday mushroom trip brings free-spirited Elliott face-to-face with her wisecracking 39-year-old self. 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.
When Elliot (Maisy Stella) meets her older self (Aubrey Plaza), she’s warned about meeting a guy named Chad (Percy Hynes White). But despite her best efforts, Elliot can’t seem to distance herself from his charms.
Tell me why I squealed like I was a young girl again watching Elliot and Chad fall in love? This should’ve been YA fluff but with Plaza’s input and the script’s edgy writing, it soars beyond that.
A stoner comedy that is also a tearjerker? You better believe it.
DGA
1 nomination
Spirit Awards
1 win, 1 nomination
Sundance
1 nomination
WGA
1 nomination
Nat. Board of Review
1 win
Nice movie
Very interesting movie
‘My Old Ass’ is simple, very sweet, and somewhat predictable. After reading the premise, I was afraid that this film might succumb to YA and coming-of-age cliches. Glad to write that I was wrong.
The film is set somewhere in the Canadian suburbs. There are lush summer forests, lakes at the golden hour, rains, and dreamy cottages. Young Elliot’s female friendships are warm and genuine. Her relationship with Chad develops organically. Their banters are cute and original. I found myself *involuntarily* smiling.
This film is absolutely worth the watch if you’re looking for something funny and sweet with depth.