My Old Ass: a beautiful – and hilarious! – new look at the ‘queer generation’

In the film My Old Ass, which hits the screens with a quirky yet thought-provoking narrative, viewers are invited to reflect on the passage of time and life’s choices through the lens of a fantastical twist. At the heart of this coming-of-age story is happy-go-lucky lesbian Elliott, portrayed by Maisy Stella, an 18-year-old standing on the precipice of adulthood… and a relationship with a… boy! Leaving behind the familial comfort of her third-generation cranberry farming family in Muskoka, Ontario, Elliott prepares for the next chapter of her life—college in the bustling city.

This tale takes an unusual turn during a last-hurrah camping trip with friends on an isolated island. In a whimsical experiment with magic mushrooms, Elliott unknowingly opens a portal to her future, encountering her 39-year-old self, played with charming eccentricity by Aubrey Plaza. While the initial interactions are laced with comedic, stoner humour, as expected when two lifetimes collide in one surreal moment, it soon evolves into a meaningful exploration of time, choices, and identity.

The film, notable for the dynamic chemistry between Stella and Plaza, centres around the lingering question: given the opportunity to glimpse your future, what aspects of your present would you be compelled to alter? While the pair’s physical resemblance may falter, their shared charisma more than compensates, engaging the audience in a dialogue that feels both intimate and universally relatable.

My Old Ass offers more than just adolescent antics; it provides a narrative filled with introspection and depth and lashings of charm. The interplay between the youthful exuberance of the present and the seasoned wisdom of the future self is both delightful and reflective. It challenges viewers to consider the often unpredictable trajectory of life and the essence of personal growth.

For those within the LGBTQ+ community, Elliott’s journey might resonate on a deeper level, echoing the sentiments of self-discovery and acceptance that are familiar to many. It’s a cinematic journey that captures the essence of what it means to confront one’s own fears and dreams, offering a touching portrayal of embracing one’s path, regardless of what the future may hold.