Sundance Review: Aubry Plaza's MY OLD ASS is a Wonderfully Charming and Heartwarming Film
The summer before college is a time of both excitement and uncertainty, and writer-director Megan Park's new feature film, My Old Ass, explores this pivotal moment in a refreshing and heartwarming way. What begins as an interesting premise involving a mushroom-induced encounter with a future self transforms into a delightful coming-of-age journey of self-discovery and first love.
The film introduces us to Elliott, a bright and irreverent young woman, whose world takes an unexpected turn during a mushroom trip with her friends. Maisy Stella's portrayal of the young Elliott is brimming with sass and confidence and delivers a wonderful performance. The movie also stars Aubrey Plaza as the older and more mature Elliott, and her cynical humor blends seamlessly with Stella's youthful exuberance, creating an unlikely chemistry that will keep the audience engaged throughout the film.
My Old Ass may be a teenage love story, but it's also a lively contemporary comedy and a unique quirky take on the time-travel genre. Megan Park skillfully navigates the uncertainties of young romance and the complexities of coming of age, making the movie relatable to audiences of all ages.
When I first heard the title of the film, My Old Ass, I had no idea what I was getting myself into, but I was pleasantly surprised by the story and how it turned out. The film manages to strike a perfect balance between tugging at the heartstrings and eliciting genuine laughter. From start to finish, the movie had me smiling, and it became one of my favorite films from this year's Sundance Film Festival.
As a father of daughters, I couldn't help but appreciate how the movie captured the essence of teenage girls' lives today. It provided valuable insights into their world while also expanding on the universal themes of growing up and finding oneself.
My Old Ass is a charming and delightful movie that left me brimming with happiness. With well-developed characters, a strong storyline, and great chemistry between its leads, it's a film that deserves to be watched. Megan Park has crafted a memorable exploration of youth, love, and the uncertainties that lie ahead.
