Growing Up is Trippy: “My Old Ass” Movie Review—What Happens When Your 18-Year-Old Self Meets Your 39-Year-Old Self on a Mushroom Trip? Friday 27 September, 2024
“My Old Ass” is a clever and heartfelt coming-of-age film that dives into the emotional journey of self-reflection. In this quirky comedy, 18-year-old Elliot (Maisy Stella) literally meets her future self, played by the fabulous Aubrey Plaza, during a wild mushroom trip. Yep, it’s a time-traveling adventure—just without the DeLorean!
As the two Elliots interact, the older version tries to impart some wisdom before the younger one heads off to college. She encourages her to cherish family time and appreciate her hometown, but honestly, the young Elliot is just excited to escape her family’s cranberry farm and dive into college life. Who hasn’t felt that pull between adventure and home?
Throughout the film, young Elliot learns to appreciate her roots while also exploring her identity and sexuality. It raises an interesting question: if you could chat with your older self, would you actually listen to their advice? The tension between the two versions of Elliot makes for some thought-provoking moments.
One standout scene features young Elliot having a full-blown Justin Bieber concert in the woods during her trip. I mean, who wouldn’t want to relive that teenage dream, even if it’s all a bit psychedelic? It’s a hilarious reminder of youthful fantasies and the power of imagination.
My Old Ass does a fantastic job of capturing the messy reality of growing up, with sharp dialogue that reflects the complexities of teenage life—friendships, family, and budding romances. The character development resonates deeply, showcasing the confusion and hardships that often come with leaving adolescence behind.
My Old Ass also tackles the struggle of understanding one’s sexual identity. As young Elliot navigates her feelings, it reflects the challenges many young adults face while trying to figure out who they are and who they love. It’s a journey that feels both relatable and necessary.
While the film is undeniably funny, it dives deeper than your average coming-of-age flick. It avoids the clichés of transformative aging movies like “13 Going on 30” or “Big,” presenting aging as a complex but beautiful process. Ultimately, “My Old Ass” is a touching reminder to connect with both our younger and older selves, celebrating self-discovery and the beauty of life’s journey—all without needing a DeLorean to get there.
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