It's Kind of a Funny Story

Based on the titular novel by Ned Vizzini, filmmakers Anna Boden and Ryan Fleck's It's Kind of a Funny Story is an amiable but ephemeral comedy-drama that plays like One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest lite, raising some serious issues but barely registering on an emotional level. Craig (Keir Gilchrist), a gifted but troubled NYC teen haunted by thoughts of suicide—an inclination partially caused by his longing for his best friend's girl—checks himself into a hospital for observation. Bobby (Zach Galifianakis), a volatile, motor-mouthed, long-term resident, takes it upon himself to mentor Craig during his stay in the psych ward, with much of Bobby's effort devoted to nudging Craig toward Noelle (Emma Roberts), a saucy young woman with a habit of cutting herself. Of course, a bunch of other colorful characters are on the floor as well to help teach Craig life lessons that will change him for the better (even if they themselves remain troubled souls). Gilchrist is engaging as the central character, but it's Galifianakis who gives the film its drive. Unfortunately, the movie ends with a whimper, trailing off in a wispy after-story that's meant to be charming but comes across as simply banal. Optional. [Note: DVD/Blu-ray extras include outtakes (12 min.), deleted scenes (9 min.), “A Look Inside” production featurette (3 min.), a segment from the film's NYC premiere (3 min.), and trailers. Exclusive to the Blu-ray release is the BD-Live function. Bottom line: a solid extras package for an uneven film.] (F. Swietek)