Imagine stumbling upon your older self during a hallucination and realizing how such a meeting might shift your view on life. That's the intriguing premise of Megan Park's film *My Old Ass*! Aubrey Plaza and Maisy Stella embrace roles that cross generations, portraying the same character at different life stages. The film is a fascinating exploration of self-discovery where the boundaries between youthful idealism and the wisdom of age blur.
In the movie, we witness 18-year-old Elliott, played by Stella, embark on what can only be described as a mind-bending journey after a hallucinogenic mushroom escapade. It's during this psychedelic experience that she encounters her 39-year-old self, portrayed by none other than Plaza. The older Elliott, known for her wisecracks, serves as a sharp-tongued mirror reflecting Elliott's choices and dreams, effectively shaking the ground under her feet with humor and insight.
An Unconventional Chemistry
Their on-screen magic finds its roots off-screen, where Plaza went above and beyond to capture Stella's youthful essence. She studied her mannerisms intimately, even taking note of how Stella slept to ensure a convincing portrayal of her character's youthful vibe. Meanwhile, Stella, who kicked off her acting career at just eight years old on *Nashville*, savored the nurturing and teamwork that Plaza brought, painting a stark contrast between Plaza's sardonic screen presence and her real-life warmth. Through this melding of talents and mindsets, the actors breathe life into a narrative that is as funny as it is thought-provoking.
Nostalgia and Reflection
But what’s a story about personal growth without a touch of nostalgia? The film leans heavily into those shared experiences we've all held dear. Think childhood dance videos and times spent bonding with family, all underscored by the central themes of growth and self-reflection. Park beautifully captures life's unpredictability, pushing us to ponder how our past selves would judge us now and how we've come to see them.
For Plaza and Stella, this project doesn't just represent another acting job but a reflection on their personal journeys. Stella sees her role as a bridge from her past as a child actor to exploring more adult themes and roles. For Plaza, diving into a character that dances with dark humor and introspective lessons offers room to expand her already diverse acting repertoire.
Is this duel between age and youth something we all silently crave—a peek into our own futures or insights from our pasts? *My Old Ass* provides a stage for these questions to play out, proving it's as much about where we’ve been as it is about where we’re going.