My Old Ass is a refreshingly unique coming-of-age film that blends lighthearted rom-com energy with surprisingly deep self-reflection. Directed by Megan Park, the movie follows Elliott (Maisy Stella), an 18-year-old ready to leave her small Canadian town for the big-city life in Toronto. After taking mushrooms on her 18th birthday, Elliott encounters her 39-year-old self (Aubrey Plaza), affectionately dubbed her “old ass,” who dispenses cryptic advice: be nicer to her family and avoid Chad.
At first glance, My Old Ass seems like a typical Gen Z rom-com, filled with snappy dialogue and vibrant energy. However, it quickly evolves into something more meaningful. Elliott’s journey isn’t just about avoiding future mistakes; it’s about grappling with the messy reality of growing up and realizing that not everything can be “fixed.” Stella delivers a standout performance as Elliott, capturing the character’s wit, charm, and underlying vulnerability. At the same time, Plaza’s portrayal of the older Elliott is a masterclass in blending humor with depth. Plaza adds layers to her role, hinting at past hardships that shape her guarded, yet still funny, persona. Plaza has truly boomed as an actress.
The chemistry between Stella and Plaza is one of the film’s greatest strengths. Their dynamic effectively contrasts youthful optimism with the hard-earned wisdom that comes with age, making their shared scenes memorable and emotionally resonant.
However, the film missed some opportunities to explore its more profound themes fully. Elliott’s future self warns her about Chad, but this thread never entirely develops into the rich exploration of fate and free will it could have been. The film also skirts deeper discussions about aging and identity, leaving some aspects of Elliott’s growth unexplored.
Though it plays on rom-com tropes, like Elliott’s relationship with Chad (Percy Hines White), My Old Ass subverts them by focusing more on the relationship Elliott has with herself—literally, the romance takes a back seat, which works in favor of the film’s introspective tone. And while it all ties together reasonably well, the premise of meeting one’s older self is riddled with holes.
In the end, My Old Ass is a meditation on growing up, the inevitability of mistakes, and the unpredictability of life. It’s a fun, thought-provoking watch that balances humor with emotional depth, making it a film that lingers well beyond the credits.