Teen meets future self while camping in the woods

Eighteen-year-old Elliott, portrayed by Maisy Stella, is on the brink of leaving her small-town life for college in Toronto. As she spends her last summer with friends and family, she embarks on a hallucinogenic camping trip that leads to an unexpected encounter with her middle-aged self, played by Aubrey Plaza. This unique premise allows for a dialogue between the two versions of Elliott, where the older self shares wisdom about life choices, family, and relationships, including a humorous warning about a character named Chad. The film, directed by Megan Park, stands out from typical coming-of-age narratives by incorporating a fantastical element that explores the complexities of identity and the passage of time. The younger Elliott embodies the traits of a typical Gen-Z teenager, showcasing a mix of confidence, curiosity, and self-absorption. In contrast, the older Elliott reflects on her experiences with a sense of malaise and humor, creating a dynamic interplay between youth and maturity. As the story unfolds, it raises profound questions about the nature of hindsight and whether it truly offers clarity. The interactions between the two characters highlight the importance of appreciating different life stages and the lessons they bring. The film's clever writing and character development allow for a rich exploration of these themes within a compact 90-minute runtime. Ultimately, the narrative encourages viewers to recognize the value in both youth and age, suggesting that while hindsight may not be perfect, it offers insights that can shape one's future decisions.