Sundance Delight My Old Ass: In this slickly packaged Sundance comedy, “My Old Ass,” shades of Petite Maman and All of Us Strangers emerge, akin to a magical high-concept “what if?” scenario, but with a more buoyant touch. Premiering on a coveted Saturday night slot, it stands out in a festival marked by last year’s strikes, which paused production and put buyers on high alert. While the traditional Sundance crowd-pleaser has faced challenges in recent years, this film feels like an easy win, effortlessly captivating a packed cinema of festival-goers.
Set against the emotionally complex backdrop of the weeks before the first year of college, “My Old Ass” revolves around Elliott (Maisy Stella), a queer teen in the picturesque Muskoka Lakes of Canada. Amidst hooking up with a local girl and indulging in recreational substances, Elliott leaves her family anxiously awaiting her departure, portraying believable, selfish teen behavior rather than monstrosity. A psychedelic experience introduces her to her older self (Aubrey Plaza), a head-scratcher attributed to the trip, not a cosmic rift. The older Elliott imparts wisdom through a phone relationship, advising the younger on relationships and cautioning against a mysterious figure named Chad.
The ensuing narrative unfolds as a charming and likable comedy, reminiscent of a slightly edgier YA novel adaptation. Megan Park, an actor turned filmmaker handling both writing and directing, crafts Elliott’s final weeks with a refreshing sense of low-stakes drama. Unlike a rebellious teen wreaking havoc, Elliott is portrayed as slightly thoughtless, requiring minor adjustments rather than a major overhaul. Park, known for her delicate touch in the teen drama “The Fallout,” navigates fantastical elements, finding a tone that embraces the setup’s goofiness while grounding it in relatable emotions.
While the life lessons conveyed are familiar, focusing on youth, learning from mistakes, and appreciating family, Park injects a surprising melancholy into the last act. The film delivers a grand emotional punch, offering a thoughtful reflection on what defines a bad life choice. While some relationships might feel rushed, and the film could benefit from a longer runtime, Stella shines as a sensational find with an instinctive, rough edge. Plaza, delivering A-game performance as usual, creates a tender rapport with Stella.
Similar to the recent sleeper hit “Anyone But You,” the film exudes a glossy and poppy aesthetic reminiscent of 2000s studio comedies—a rare treat in today’s cinematic landscape. “My Old Ass” deserves to find a broad audience, appealing to both young and old audiences alike.
FAQ About Sundance Delight My Old Ass
What is special about Sundance?
The annual program features a diverse selection of dramatic and documentary features, short films, and episodic content. Beyond screenings, the festival fosters engaging filmmaker conversations, panel discussions, and events, contributing to the global success of films premiered since 1985.
Where are they now Lennon and Maisy?
Following their roles in Nashville, the sisters, Maisy and Lennon, have transitioned to successful music careers. They’ve made Nashville, Tennessee their home, marking a significant evolution in their lives.
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