Surprisingly, the story of one teen’s admission into an adult psychiatric ward makes for a semi-charming and comical drama. However, takes serious adjustment to its slow pace. ‘It’s Kind of a Funny Story’, based on a novel written by Ned Vizzini, follows clinically depressed teen Craig, as he ventures into one of the most enlightening 5 days of his life.

 

For the first time in his life, Craig realizes that his depression is no joking matter after vividly envisions his own suicide. Rather than follow through, Craig accidentally and hilariously admits himself into a five-day program at an adult psych ward.

 

Craig, played by Keir Gilchrist, faces many of the hardships as a high school student. From falling in love with his best friend’s girlfriend, to feeling the academic pressure from his father, directors/writers Anna Boden and Ryan Fleck embrace the mind of the shy, lost and lovingly-awkward teen.

 

Gilchrist refreshingly nails his role, enticing all audience members into learning more about his dynamic character. While at the ward, he meets characters far beyond what any 16 year-old should come into contact with. Craig rooms with a odd-ball egyptian patient who’s lack of talking compliments his lack of movement, along with meeting schizophrenic, depressed, paranoid and simply insane adults. However, none match up to the master, Bobby.

 

Bobby is the clear comic relief that moves along this, at times, slow moving film. As a suicidal father, Zach Galifianakis,  (The Hangover), eloquently brings the reality of hardships into his very bold character. As Craig’s ‘mentor’ Galifianakis charms by making sure Craig doesn’t lose himself in his seemingly scrambled teenager mind.

 

In addition to sneaky detours out of the ward and into the basketball court, Bobby and Craig’s sarcastic and awkward pep talks keep a smile on any viewers face.

 

 But no feel-good teen movie is complete without a love interest.

 

Noelle, played by Emma Roberts, is another teen in the ward. Foregoing her naturally beautiful face, Emma Roberts’ blunt, complicated but humorous character easily compliments Craig’s innate awkwardness. Even though the familiarteen love can become dramatic and complicated at times, it does make the film slightly more interesting.

 

Directors Anna Boden and Ryan Fleck, best known for their films ‘Sugar’ and ‘Half-Nelson’, take clear caution when dipping into their ‘lovey dovey’ side. Unfortunately the films draatic nature slows it down, outweighing the comedic aspects.

 

In the film’s favor, the acting is beautifully done and what seems to be the main factor that makes this film likable. The film does fill the void for a simple, dry humored, and sweet teen struggle story. However, it falls short to those seeking a hysterical performance by Galifianakis, which never appears. In this kind of a good movie, Boden and Fleck do a great job of giving a resolution to this simple and clever film.

 

bagarcia@syr.edu

 

 

 

Published on October 20, 2010 at 12:00 pm