My Old Ass

At the end of “My Old Ass,” Elliot chooses to stay with Chad despite knowing that he will die young, possibly from cancer, as foreshadowed earlier in the film. Old Elliot, who appears to be her future self, warns her against getting involved with Chad because she lost him after his death and was deeply scarred by that experience. However, Elliot decides that the love they share is worth the inevitable pain, embracing a moment of true connection despite the looming heartbreak. This decision highlights her acceptance that love, even fleeting or painful, can be meaningful and worth pursuing.

Throughout the film, a major question is whether her encounters with her older self are real or just hallucinations caused by drugs. The fact that old Elliot keeps appearing after the effects of the drugs wear off, and that Chad is able to see her at the end, suggests that she might actually be a real, future version of Elliot rather than just a figment of her imagination. The ambiguity is part of the film’s purpose, leaving viewers to interpret whether her future self is a genuine entity or a symbolic manifestation of her fears and hopes.

Ultimately, the movie explores themes of self-discovery, acceptance, and the bittersweet nature of love. Elliot’s journey teaches her that embracing her true feelings and her identity, even if it leads to pain, is a vital part of growing up. The ending’s openness leaves audiences contemplating whether the future is fixed or fluid, and whether love is worth any amount of suffering when it feels truly real.

Last Updated: June 25, 2025 at 09:02