It was another mediocre turnout at BUFS last week. The inclement weather deterred many patrons, but there was a larger number of students as expected.
The film, It’s Kind of a Funny Story, chronicles one depressed teenager’s (Craig) week in an adult psychiatric ward. The film is based on the novel by Ned Vizzini. It is a touching and humourous story of struggles and life discovery. With a surprising and sentimental performance by funny-man Zack Galifianakis (Bobby), this film demonstrates the power of friendship and communication. As Mick Lasalle of The San Francisco Chronicle eloquently states, “The movie taps into a curious truth about life and particular variety of relationship that exists in the world but that’s rarely if ever depicted in movies: There’s a special mentoring bond that can sometimes develop between a thoroughly screwed-up adult and a slightly less screwed-up teenager.” The bond between Craig and Bobby is unconventional but helps Craig look at himself and his future clearly and with less anxiety.
The film seems random at first but eventually becomes familiar and comfortable for the audience. It’s not your typical Hollywood film. It draws you in with its humanness. I wonder if the same can be said for the recent release of The Roommate, which will likely draw a large youth audience.
