We’ve seen “body switch” movies like Big, Freaky Friday, and 13 Going on 30, where immature youngsters instantly become adults and realise the grass isn’t as green on the other side.  My Old Ass has similar themes, but Canadian writer-director Megan Park (The Fallout) takes a different approach.  Instead of switching bodies, an 18-year-old Elliott (Stella) ingests psychedelic drugs and is visited by the 39-year-old version of herself (Plaza) from the future.

It’s a question many adults have asked.  With the benefit of maturity and hindsight, what advice would you give to your teenage self if you ever had the opportunity?  The interactions between the two Elliotts are hilarious as they argue back-and-forth.  The older Elliott dispenses sage advice about enjoying the time you have and staying close to family.  The younger Elliott wants to know what the future has it store – is she married, successful, happy, rich?

Clocking in at an appropriately tight 89 minutes, My Old Ass is an excellent comedy which should be seen for two main reasons.  Firstly, it boasts a dazzling lead performance from 20-year-old Maisy Stella in what is her first performance in a feature film.  I loved her extraverted, interrupting nature, her facial expressions (which say so much), and the relaxed, natural way she engages with others.  She’s created such a fun, likeable character and it’s easy to invest in her fate.  I can’t wait to follow Stella’s career going forward.

Secondly, while the themes aren’t revolutionary, the film provides a timely reminder about appreciating life’s little things.  The best monologue is offer by Chad (White) who, as Elliott’s love interest, talks about the “last time” we do certain things and how we often don’t realise and savour these moments.  There’s also strong commentary about being kind to your parents and siblings, and how being “young and dumb” isn’t necessarily a bad thing.

Australian Margot Robbie (Barbie) serves as one of the film’s producers and it’s easy to see why she was attracted the project.  Filled with lots of quirky details, such as Elliott’s brother’s obsession with Saoirse Ronan, My Old Ass is one of this year’s best releases.