It’s Kind of A Funny Story

Depressed and stressed from the many pressures bearing down on him, Craig (Keir Gilchrist), a seemingly typical high school student finally reaches his breaking point. At the end of his rope and feeling suicidal, a cry for help lands him in the psych ward of a New York hospital. Once admitted Craig begins to realize the gravity of his decision and actions; but, left with no alternative he’s forced to do the self work and open himself to counseling. Over the course of five days, the friends and acquaintances Craig makes in the system leaves him with a unique outlook on life, but is it enough to get his life back on track?
Also starring funnyman Zach Galifianakis in a much more subdued role this particularly indie feeling film makes for a truly bittersweet watch. With honest dialogue, sometimes rough edges, and just the right balance of levity and seriousness the characters all feel nicely developed even though we’re never given their full stories. Clever introspective flashbacks and dream sequences also work well to drive the inner dialogue and narrative. And, while the film works as a coming of age story, it also serves nicely as a romantic comedy in the most unusual of places. Quirky and full of heart, this unlikely contender for your dollar should not go overlooked, perhaps a date movie? It’s Kind of A Funny Story is rated PG-13.