Stand-up to Trauma: a Comedian’s Bittersweet Journey

Read Time:3 Minute, 55 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
I Used to Be Funny
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Genre: Comedy, Drama
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 1h 45m
Director(s): Ally Pankiw
Writer(s): Ally Pankiw
Cast: Rachel Sennott, Olga Petsa, Jason Jones, Sabrina Jalees, Caleb Hearon
Where To Watch: opens in theaters in New York on June 7, 2024, followed by Los Angeles on June 14, and digital on June 18

RAVING REVIEW: I USED TO BE FUNNY embarks on a journey into the complex life of Sam, a stand-up comedian in Toronto portrayed by Rachel Sennott (SHIVA BABY, BODIES BODIES BODIES.) Following a devastating personal trauma, Sam finds herself entangled in the life of Brooke, a teenager facing her crises, played by Olga Petsa. This film navigates the delicate interplay between trauma and humor, expertly handled by director Ally Pankiw in her feature film directorial debut, with a narrative that probes the depths of human resilience and the cathartic power of comedy.

Sennott delivers a multi-layered performance, oscillating between comedic brilliance and poignant drama. Her portrayal of Sam, a character wrestling with her past while trying to reclaim her future, highlights her evolution as an actress capable of handling diverse roles. (Unrelated, but if you haven’t seen SHIVA BABY, please check it out after watching this!) Pankiw, making her mark with her first feature film, directs with a nuanced understanding of the narrative's tempo, using flashbacks not just as a storytelling tool but as a way to deepen the story's emotional pull.

Pankiw also impresses as the film's writer with a script that smartly incorporates some lighter scenes within the broader context of Sam’s recovery, using humor to examine her struggles. This technique enriches the character's portrayal and engages the audience, making the laughter more meaningful given the circumstances. All this is done while also allowing the dialogue to drive the film, with a precise use of silence and emotion to create the atmosphere.

The film shines brightest when it examines the core elements of life: love, trust, and anger. Allowing these emotions to shine, we look into the characters' souls, why Sam does what she does, why Brooke struggles with her response to all of this, and the larger arc of redemption.

The supporting cast of Sabrina Jalees as Paige and Caleb Hearon as Philip inject a dose of warmth and tough love into the film as Sam’s supportive roommates and friends. They embody a modern queer family dynamic that feels both refreshing and necessary, adding to the film’s inclusive approach.

Pankiw successfully melds humor and gravity to tackle significant themes with a balance of wit and earnestness. Sennott stands out, delivering a consistent performance that easily navigates the emotional spectrum, solidifying her status as a force in indie cinema with ease; she stretches her acting abilities from drama to comedy in every role she takes on. The film's direction and performances combine to make I USED TO BE FUNNY a memorable addition to the landscape of independent cinema, celebrated for its authentic portrayal of complex life realities through a blend of comedy and drama.

I USED TO BE FUNNY is a poignant exploration of trauma and healing, interwoven with humor that serves as a coping mechanism and a narrative drive. It's a film that entertains and resonates deeply, offering insights into the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of embracing life’s challenges with a dose of laughter. This experience is as enriching as it is enjoyable, making it a standout piece that will engage audiences across the spectrum.

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[photo courtesy of UTOPIA]

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