It’s Kind of a Funny Story Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

A stressed teen checks into a mental hospital to avoid homework, finds love, and accidentally throws a pizza party that somehow cures everyone, or at least makes them feel slightly better about their impending existential dread.

🍿 It’s Kind of a Funny Story: Detailed Plot Synopsis

Stressed and Suicidal

Craig, a bright but stressed-out teenager, feels overwhelmed by the pressures of school and expectations for his future. He contemplates suicide and seeks help at a hospital, checking himself into the psychiatric ward for what he believes will be a quick fix.

Finding Connection in Unexpected Places

The teen ward is under renovation, so Craig finds himself among adult patients. He befriends Bobby, a fellow patient dealing with his own struggles, and Noelle, a girl his age who is also struggling with mental health. Through these relationships, Craig begins to gain perspective on his own problems.

Facing Reality and Finding a Path

During his stay, Craig grapples with his feelings for his best friend’s girlfriend and begins to understand his creative passions. He learns to connect with others and to appreciate the simple things in life, leading him to a renewed sense of hope and direction.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Craig (Keir Gilchrist): A depressed teenager who checks himself into a psychiatric ward to escape the pressures of school and life.
• Bobby (Zach Galifianakis): A troubled but affable adult patient who becomes Craig’s mentor and friend in the psychiatric ward.
• Noelle (Emma Roberts): A young patient in the ward who bonds with Craig over their shared struggles with mental health.
• Dr. Eden Minerva (Viola Davis): Craig’s psychiatrist who provides guidance and support during his stay in the ward.
• Nia (Zoë Kravitz): Craig’s crush and best friend’s girlfriend who represents the external pressures contributing to his depression.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Craig: “I’m Craig and I’m a mess.” – Craig introduces himself to the group therapy session, acknowledging his struggles with mental health.
• Bobby: “The key to life is accepting that it’s already happened.” – Bobby shares his perspective on dealing with past mistakes and moving forward.
• Dr. Eden Minerva: “Lord, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, courage to change the things I can, and wisdom to know the difference.” – Dr. Minerva recites the Serenity Prayer, a common mantra for those seeking peace of mind.
• Craig: “I’m not fixed, but I’m fixing.” – Craig acknowledges he is a work in progress and is trying to get better.

💰Box Office

• Budget: $8,000,000
• Domestic Gross: $6,363,628
• Worldwide Gross: $6,491,240

💥 It’s Kind of a Funny Story Reviews

Personal Review

I stumbled upon this movie late one night and was surprised by how much it resonated with me. The scene where they perform ‘Under Pressure’ together is so unexpectedly joyful. The movie handles a tough subject with such a light touch, and I found myself genuinely caring for these characters, even the more eccentric ones. It’s a reminder that everyone’s got their own struggles, and sometimes a little connection is all you need to feel a little less alone.

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Teenagers and young adults dealing with stress and anxiety”
  • “Fans of coming-of-age stories”
  • “Viewers interested in films that explore mental health issues with a touch of humor”
  • “People who enjoy indie films with heartfelt messages”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Suicidal ideation”
  • “Depression”
  • “Self-harm (cutting)”
  • “Mature themes”

Professional Reviews

• IndieWire: “Boden and Fleck navigate tricky subject matter with sensitivity and humor, crafting a heartwarming story about finding oneself amidst chaos. Gilchrist shines as Craig, supported by a stellar cast, particularly Galifianakis, who delivers a nuanced performance.
• The New York Times: “While occasionally veering into sentimentality, ‘It’s Kind of a Funny Story’ offers a relatable portrayal of teenage anxiety and the healing power of human connection. Roberts and Gilchrist share a charming on-screen presence.
• Variety: “The film’s strength lies in its performances and its ability to find humor in unexpected places. Boden and Fleck avoid sensationalizing mental illness, opting for a more gentle and optimistic approach.

Audience Reactions

The quirky characters and unexpected moments of levity made the movie a unique and memorable experience.: Viewers praised the movie for its sensitive portrayal of mental health and its ability to find humor in difficult situations.

Zach Galifianakis’ performance was a standout, showcasing his versatility as an actor beyond comedic roles.: Many people found the film to be surprisingly heartwarming and uplifting, despite its subject matter.

Overall Consensus: A heartwarming and humorous exploration of mental health, elevated by strong performances and a sensitive approach to its subject matter.

Awards

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “The film is based on Ned Vizzini’s semi-autobiographical novel of the same name, inspired by his own experiences in a psychiatric hospital.”
• “The directors, Anna Boden and Ryan Fleck, are known for their naturalistic and character-driven filmmaking style, which contributed to the film’s authenticity.”
• “The cast spent time researching and interacting with individuals who have experienced mental health challenges to prepare for their roles.”

🖥️ How to Watch It’s Kind of a Funny Story?

It’s Kind of a Funny Story is available for rent or purchase on various platforms, including Amazon Prime Video and Apple TV. Check your local listings for availability on streaming services. You may also be able to find it on demand through your cable provider. Digital retailers offer purchase options as well.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed It’s Kind of a Funny Story, you might like these similar films:

• The Perks of Being a Wallflower (2012): Deals with teenage mental health, finding your place, and the power of friendship.
• One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest (1975): Explores life inside a mental institution and the dynamics between patients.
• Silver Linings Playbook (2012): Features characters dealing with mental health issues and finding unconventional paths to healing.
• Girl, Interrupted (1999): Focuses on a young woman’s experiences in a psychiatric hospital and her relationships with other patients.

🛒 It’s Kind of a Funny Story Related Products

• It’s Kind of a Funny Story [Blu-ray]: Own the physical copy of this coming-of-age dramedy to re-watch anytime! The Blu-ray includes exclusive behind-the-scenes content and deleted scenes.
• It’s Kind of a Funny Story (Kindle Edition): Experience the original novel by Ned Vizzini that inspired the movie! Dive into Craig’s inner thoughts and explore the full story with this digital download.
• Mental Health Awareness T-Shirt: Show your support for mental health awareness with this comfortable and stylish t-shirt. A portion of the proceeds goes to mental health charities.
• Zach Galifianakis: Live at the Purple Onion [DVD]: Get more of Zach Galifianakis’ unique humor with his stand-up comedy special. A great addition to any comedy fan’s collection.

🎧 Soundtrack

It’s Kind of a Funny Story features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:

• “Chameleon” – performed by Broken Social Scene Presents: Brendan Canning
• “Under Pressure” – performed by Queen & David Bowie (Performed by the cast in the movie)

You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

Gordon Keith’s uncomfortable interview with Zach Galifianakis

Check out this hilarious and awkward interview with Zach Galifianakis. He’s a great actor, and it’s clear that he has a unique personality.

✨ Rate