An uplifting story, that is quite unique in concept but can be a little unrealistic in places. I enjoy the use of out of focus shots in this film, has a very interesting effect and breaks up the dull hospital setting throughout the film. It can be used to emphasise the feelings of the main character. The acting was decent, with the main character being better than most teenage protagonists. Zach Galifianakis actually gave a good performance, being more serious for a change. However, sometimes the subject matter sometimes feels a little unrealistic in parts. Particularly the ending, it feels a little too happy for the problems the characters are facing. Furthermore, the setting can be a little repetitive but it could be argued that reflects the situation and how it would be like in reality. Overall, a heart warming watch but not a masterpiece.

I found this because it is an Emma Roberts, and to me it was, as with most of her stuff, worth finding. That definitely includes Nerve (2016), about kids playing an internet dare game.It's A Kind Of Funny Story is effective teens with problems re mental health. I have no idea how the fee paying USA system deals with the full range of that, but the UK has been underfunding this sector for some time so the National Health Service and education services are of limited help.This is a fun story that mostly manages to be sympathetic. Cuckoo's Nest seemed to set a precedent for including patients going AWOL and I wonder how those are intended to be understood by those who consider mental patients as dangerous? That is the aspect of the story that I personally would prefer to be other, to me it spoils the sympathetic view.My experience of mental health support is that it can help some, while being retrograde for many others. This exploration of those it can help feels useful for considering the wider situation. I consider this story to be filmic literature rather than a gripping yarn.

What makes this film not as good as it could have been is not necessarily the writing or directing but the lead actor portraying the character of Craig (Keir Gilchrist). Within the first few scenes, the audience understands he is going with problems and is shown as depressed but we are also noticing his behavior towards his family and friends, and he comes off as completely unlikable. In films such as this where we are meant to root for the lead character (specifically) because of his illness, it makes it more difficult since his character is not fully worth rooting for. Though as the film progresses, and Craig becomes settled in with his current situation, his tendencies become more likable.Easily what turns out to be the standout of the film is the performance and presence of Zach Galifianakis. His character is the most fascinated and we are sensed that there is something complicated and deliberate happening with his character. He appears to have the second most screen time, after Craig. His overall story seemed better than Craig's but unfortunately we are left with not as much as it could have been, as this film is completely centered around Craig. The supporting characters of Emma Roberts, and Viola Davis are there simply for support of Craig, as they are not given as much to do.Overall, It's Kind of a Funny story is not a bad film, but depends on the certain atmosphere and type of film one is intending in watching. The film quite feels more of a teenage Disney sitcom split into 4 episodes rather than one lengthy film. Having the film rated PG-13, the director and writer were most definitely held back. With an R rating, this film could have been more powerful, more impactful and possibly shown more depth in performances. They could have done wonders given this subject matter (perhaps a more depressing and different film) but one would think it would have been better. Think Brick or Charlie Bartlett.

This film is one of those lovely ones that quietly sneak up on you and by the time you finish it you know that you'll watch it time and time again.Based on a book that has become a bible for teens going through hard times this film captures the messages of it perfectly, and a strong cast bring it to life.There is so much warmth and charm here. Never does the film get too dark, or too funny, never does it say that mental health issues are ever going to be easy to break free from. It's an honest film, and that's why I like it.Yes, it's a quiet film. It's never going to be one that people in fifty years are talking about. But it's certainly one I recommend you seek out and watch.