‘My Old Ass’ Review (Amazon Prime)
Stars: Maisy Stella, Percy Hynes White, Maddie Ziegler, Kerrice Brooks, Aubrey Plaza | Written and Directed by Megan Park
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.
The Amazon Prime film My Old Ass is a unique blend of comedy, coming-of-age drama, and heartfelt introspection. Directed by Megan Park and featuring Maisy Stella as the spirited 18-year-old Elliott and Aubrey Plaza as her witty 39-year-old future self, the film uses a fantastical setup – hallucinogenic mushrooms enabling time-travel communication – to explore deep themes about family, self-discovery, and the fleeting nature of time.
The comedic dynamic between the two Elliotts shines, with Plaza’s deadpan delivery contrasting Stella’s youthful exuberance, creating a believable connection despite their differing appearances. This interplay is enriched by clever dialogue and touching moments that resonate universally, such as grappling with familial relationships and the complexities of identity
The narrative’s emotional depth intensifies as it tackles questions about love, sexuality, and the value of time. Elliott’s journey, from resisting her family’s embrace to cherishing the present, adds a layer of warmth that many viewers will find relatable. The film transitions seamlessly from laugh-out-loud moments to tear-jerking scenes, making it a surprise standout of the year. Stellar performances by the supporting cast, including Maddie Ziegler and Maria Dizzia, further bolster My Old Ass‘s impact
With a brisk runtime of 85 minutes, My Old Ass offers a quick yet profoundly moving experience. While its fantastical premise might require some suspension of disbelief, its rich character work and emotional resonance make it a memorable watch, recommended for fans of heartfelt, offbeat cinema.
My Old Ass is available to watch on Amazon Prime now.
