My Old Ass

Tropic Sprockets by Ian Brockway

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Megan Park (“The Fallout”) directs “My Old Ass,” a film that endears and beguiles with heart and spirit. The film is in the screwball comedy genre, recalling “Topper” as well as “No Hard Feelings.” This is a genuine coming of age story, zany, irreverent and full of affection.

Elliott (Maisy Stella) is an 18-year-old girl at a crossroad. She wants to go to college but is emotionally torn between doing what she wants and working at her father’s farm. One day she decides to do magic mushrooms with her friends, reasoning that it might lead to some inner resolution.

After consuming the mushroom tea, Elliot concludes that the drug did not work. But after a few seconds, a thirtyish woman appears (Aubrey Plaza). This is Elliott’s older self. Young Elliott is quite aghast, while her older double is glib and sarcastic. The one liners are fast and furious and laugh out loud funny, reminiscent of a 1940s comedy or a Judd Apatow gut buster.

There is a wondrous contrast between Maisy Stella’s spaced-out innocence and Aubrey Plaza’s glib nonchalance. A rapport quickly builds.

The older Elliott attempts to guide her twin, which leads to dependence. Elliot nearly goes mad trying to reach her double. And why does she tell Elliott to stay away from Chad (Percy Hynes White)?

The honesty and unfolding of events are surprisingly poignant and just might bring you to tears.

Maisy Stella is terrific in her first film role with her naivety, her sunshine and dare striking through the screen.

This is another satisfying outing for Aubrey Plaza who always generates mystery and intrigue with her wide-eyed feline features and her sly sarcasm.

This is a small, highly satisfying film that soars with heart and verve. It is an absolute comic hybrid of John Hughes and Billy Wilder.

“My Old Ass” creates a space where Jungian shadows connect with the pleasures and pangs of youth and the exchanges are as joyous as they are pensive.

Write Ian at ianfree11@yahoo.com