At first glance, you’d be forgiven for thinking It’s Kind of a Funny Story is little more than your run of the mill, comedy-drama. But given half a chance, you’ll quickly find that this offbeat, but genuinely thoughtful offering has plenty new to bring to the table.
Taking on the exhausted sandbox of teenage angst from a fresh angle, It’s Kind of a Funny Story sets the usual adolescent baggage of social shortcomings, infuriating parents and complicated love lives against the murkier world of teenage depression and genuine anxieties.
Adapted from Ned Vizzini’s 2006 novel, this big screen adaptation follows the turbulent life and times of 16-year-old Craig (Gilchrist) as he checks himself into Brooklyn’s 3 North, an adult psychiatric ward, after the pressures of adolescent life steers the youngster toward thoughts of suicide. Only intending to section himself for a single night, Craig is horrified when the hospital’s minimum stay of five days is revealed.
Forced to spend the next week in the ward, Craig is quickly befriended by Bobby (Galifianakis), a fellow patient claiming to be on vacation. The impromptu friendship quickly develops into a genuine bond, with the pair offering each other much needed help and advice. It’s not long before another patient catches Craig’s interest, this time the charming Noell (Roberts). But with both teens too awkward to pursue the other, it’s left to the meddling Bobby to ignite the fires of young love.
The appearance of funny-man of the moment, Zach Galifianakis, might lead people to believe this film is little more than a laugh a minute riot. That’d be no bad thing, and Galifianakis knows his trade well, but It’s Kind of a Funny Story quickly surprises. This isn’t a laugh out loud comedy, rather something more thoughtful and paced. The drab backdrop of a New York psychiatric ward isn’t plundered for cheap laughs and sight gags, instead trapping our key players together to stir up internal conflicts and encourage engaging interactions.
Kier Gilchrist, best known for his turn as awkward son Marshall in The United States of Tara, is a smart choice for Craig. We’re given a mature and engaging lead, but one that isn’t beyond the usual anxieties and awkwardness of any 16-year0old. Galifianakis also impresses as Bobby, delivering his troubled mentor role in a more straight-faced and sober manner then what we’re used to.
Away from the central friendship, an impressive supporting cast impresses and entertains. Emma Roberts is particularly charming as Noell, the object of Craig’s affections. The incredibly enjoyable group therapy sessions also boast a roster of engaging supporting talent, with Viola Davis turning in a memorable performance as the put-upon psychiatric doctor forced to hold court.
Overall Verdict: Surprisingly warm and thoughtful, It’s Kind of a Funny Story is a smart take on the coming of age story, undoubtedly funny, but never afraid to peer at the darker side of teenage angst.
Special Features:
Deleted Scenes
Outtakes
A look inside It’s Kind of a Funny Story
It’s Kind of a Funny Story premiere in New York City
Reviewer: David Steele