A group of teenagers curious about what life will be like when they grow-up is featured in My Old Ass. Written and directed by Megan Park, this unique film begins with an approach in which the teens are doing drugs all night long. Their partying, however, results in revelations due to the side effects of the drugs which bring dramatic elements and unexpected meaning. My Old Ass is one of the quirkiest, yet joyful and artistic adventures of 2024. 

The film focuses on Elliott (played by Maisy Stella), who is young and living her best life. This all changes when she does mushrooms with her friends Ruthie (played by Maddie Ziegler) and Ro (played by Kerrice Brooks). Once the mushrooms make her start tripping, her mental door opens to a new individual of purpose which is the older version of herself. Older Elliott (played by Aubrey Plaza) offers inspiration and wisdom. She also makes Elliott realize she should examine her life more thoroughly. Elliott finds all kinds of new revelations from her older self. She finds connections to a boy named Chad (played by Percy Hynes White), and she tends to read more into what her family has planned. These various discoveries lead to heightened emotions.

My Old Ass takes a deeper approach as it explores the inner thoughts of its main characters, Elliott and Older Elliott. The realization that life has many plateaus is highlighted by scenes in the film which frequently look back in time. The vibes of youth and then reassessment once Elliott matures are featured in My Old Ass It is a dark comedy where family, love, friendship, sacrifices, curiosities abound. Is Elliott going to make different choices after listening to older Elliott? Is Elliott going to resent herself or her family more? Or is Elliott going to let her life take its course? The youthful adventures of Elliott’s mushroom-fueled trip open her mind to new beginnings. The film takes the subject of teenage hormones and dazzles the screen with astonishing characterizations.

The dynamic between Stella and Plaza is amazingly well done in My Old Ass. This film is different kind in which the adventure of growing up finds new paths. The dramatics also find some uncharted territory. The path leading to positive outcomesarrives swiftly and smoothly in My Old Ass. Three-and-a-half out of four stars.