By Marian Daniells, news staff
Though it deals with some dense issues, including adolescent suicide and self-mutilation, “It’s Kind of a Funny Story” stays refreshingly light through the crafty use of comedy.
Based on the book of the same name by Ned Vizzini, the movie depicts the story of Craig (Keir Gilchrist), a privileged teenager who struggles with depression and ultimately checks himself into a mental institution. For the five days he’s admitted, Craig meets the hilariously portrayed Bobby (Zach Galifianakis of “The Hangover”) and Noelle (Emma Roberts), among other misfit characters.
His interaction with Bobby and Noelle helps Craig realize the beauty of life and gives him the incentive to live. Though the boy-gets-girl ending is predictable, the story remains a winner. And the comedic relief doesn’t detract from the very real issues addressed.
“We wanted to stay true to the story … and explore some interesting characters, but the movie’s very much a fiction” said co-filmmaker Anna Boden, in an interview with The News.
A spread of interesting characters dominate the films cast, which also includes Jim Gaffigan and “Gilmore Girls’” Lauren Graham as Craig’s parents and the Oscar-nominated Viola Davis as his shrink.
“I learned a lot. I’ve never worked with such an ensemble of such talented actors,” said Boden, on working with veteran actors like Davis.
Boden and her partner, Ryan Fleck, met in film school and have worked together previously on indie films “Half Nelson” (2006) and “Sugar” (2008).
Though this venture into comedy is new for the gritty indie pair, they made the movie a little edgier with personal touches. Interspersed throughout are stream-of-consciousness sequences, animation and a ’70s-esque rock number, complete with flares and glitter.
The pair seems to have adjusted well to the new genre.
“There was funny stuff every day,” said Fleck.
However, the directors, who haven’t worked with comedians before, noted some differences in the work environment.
“Funny people make other people laugh,” said Fleck, who said there are some scenes in the movie where the camera shakes because the cameraman was laughing.
And audiences, too, will laugh. Roberts’ lisp is that much more endearing when paired with Gilchrist’s adolescent awkwardness, and Galifianakis doesn’t even have to open his mouth to give viewers the chuckles.
“It’s Kind of a Funny Story” opens tomorrow in theatres everywhere.
