My Old Ass review: "Aubrey Plaza's new comedy-drama is delightfully funny and unexpectedly emotional"

A teenager takes mushrooms and is visited by her 39-year-old self, played by Aubrey Plaza… This Sundance hit certainly has an intriguing set-up. While it might sound like a stoner sci-fi, the reality is more nuanced and sensitive: My Old Ass is a queer coming-of-age story that muses on life choices and relationships. 

Maisy Stella puts in a charming turn as Elliott, a pleasant and faintly rebellious teen, in that she’d rather try hallucinogens with her friends in the woods than have a birthday tea with her parents and brothers. She’s also just met up with a girl she likes, and is keen to seal the deal. But when she and her mates take a trip, Elliott is suddenly visited by her future self. It’s both humorous and compelling watching the two chat: one full of curiosity, the other dryly witty caution.

One of the key warnings given is to stay away from a guy called Chad. But when Chad (Percy Hynes White) starts working for her dad, Elliott is increasingly drawn to him. The mystery of why he’s bad news keeps us guessing and also poses the question: would you trust and obey your future self unreservedly?

It's a puzzler that holds the interest throughout the film, but there's plenty besides to enjoy, from Plaza's mysterious, comical appearances to Stella's candid chats with her friends – including West Side Story’s Maddie Ziegler as Ruthie – about life, relationships and everything. Having begun her career as an actor, Megan Park (2021's The Fallout) continues to mark herself as a writer/director to watch.

My Old Ass is in US theaters now and released in UK cinemas on September 27. 

For more upcoming movies, check out our guide to 2024 movie release dates.