What would it take to become the person you always wanted to be? “Mack & Rita” hints at a surprising answer, looking forward instead of dwelling on past failures. The film tells the story of one writer who undergoes a transformation — rapidly turning into her 70-year-old self. While it might seem like a familiar premise, the project offers an introspective narrative for the main character.
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Director Katie Aselton assembles a cast that is tailor-made for this blend of comedy and drama. Her acting experience with ensemble-driven series such as “The League” gives the filmmaker an acute sense of what makes the genre hybrid work. For the lead role, Asleton splits duties between Elizabeth Lail and Diane Keaton. Both actresses portray the bored and disappointed Mack at different times in her life. It’s a rapid transition that sees Keaton take over to give Mack a new identity as well as an uninhibited view of life. Joining the pair are talented performers Taylour Paige, Loretta Devine, Simon Rex, Dustin Milligan, Amy Hill, Lois Smith, Wendie Malick, Patti Harrison, Martin Short, Addie Weyrich, Aimee Carrero, and Nicole Byer.
The film’s official synopsis:
“When 30-year-old self-proclaimed homebody Mack Martin (Elizabeth Lail) reluctantly joins a Palm Springs bachelorette trip for her best friend Carla (Taylour Paige), her inner 70-year-old is released — literally. The frustrated writer and influencer magically transforms into her future self: “Aunt Rita” (Oscar®-winner Diane Keaton). Freed from the constraints of other people’s expectations, Rita comes into her own, becoming an unlikely social media sensation and sparks a tentative romance with Mack’s adorable dog-sitter, Jack (Dustin Milligan). A sparkling comedy with a magical twist, Mack & Rita celebrates being true to yourself at any age.”
A reinvention changes everything in “Mack & Rita.” The film premieres in theaters on August 12. Watch the trailer below: