The Last Time We Played Pretend

This poignant duologue, "The Last Time We Played Pretend" from the film *My Old Ass*, captures a deeply vulnerable moment between two young people on the cusp of significant life changes. Set in a contemporary period, the scene unfolds as Elliott grapples with her fear of leaving her childhood home for college, perceiving her departure as a final goodbye to her past. Chad responds with a thoughtful reflection on the bittersweet nature of growing up and the unnoticed passing of childhood milestones, gently encouraging Elliott to embrace the present.

Elliott is presented as a young individual filled with an understandable mix of excitement and trepidation about the future. Her initial resolve to leave quickly gives way to a profound sadness and fear of permanent goodbyes, revealing a nostalgic and emotionally raw interior. Chad, on the other hand, appears as a sensitive and unexpectedly philosophical friend, capable of offering deep insight and comfort. While Elliott is wrestling with immediate anxieties about transition, Chad offers a broader, more contemplative perspective on the impermanence of youth and the missed opportunities to savor moments.

This scene is an excellent choice for auditions due to its raw emotional honesty and well-defined character arcs within a short timeframe. It allows both actors to showcase vulnerability, authentic connection, and the ability to navigate subtle emotional shifts without resorting to high-stakes melodrama. The naturalistic dialogue and contemporary setting make it highly relatable, providing a strong foundation for a grounded and nuanced performance that highlights genuine emotional intelligence.

This scene is particularly well-suited for actors in the 18-25 age range, aligning perfectly with the themes of coming-of-age and navigating new adult transitions. It's ideal for those casting types like Ingenue, Boy Next Door, or Teenager who can embody a vulnerable and reflective spirit. The duologue format makes it perfect for drama school auditions, agent showcases, or self-tapes where demonstrating a strong scene partnership and emotional depth is crucial.

For Elliott, focus on the gradual unraveling of her composure, letting her initial excitement give way to genuine sadness and fear. Allow her physical reactions to Chad's words to be subtle but impactful, conveying her internal realizations. For Chad, aim for a grounded and empathetic delivery, ensuring his philosophical observations feel genuine rather than preachy. Both actors should prioritize listening and reacting to their scene partner, creating a palpable sense of connection and shared vulnerability that allows the scene's emotional weight to resonate.