I Used to Be Funny (2023)

I Used to Be Funny (2023). 1h 45m

“Ally Pankiwu0026#39;s feature debut u0026quot;I Used to be Funnyu0026quot; competently explores fragile experiences of depression and PSTD, recovering from assault, and child endangerment with a tame dose of fragile drama, sprinkled with witty humour.u003cbr/u003eu003cbr/u003ePankiwu0026#39;s choice to present the story through sequencing between Samu0026#39;s mission to find a missing Brooke, the young girl she nannied, and frequent flashbacks of memories of the twou0026#39;s once-close bond. While the concept of a non-linear narrative is meant to efficiently expand the dynamics and pasts of the characters and their journeys, which it technically achieves for the majority of the film. The beginning of this sequence felt static as the vague nature that shrouded the connection between Sam, her trauma, and her past with Brooke, overstayed its welcome in the first third of the story. However, the pace thankfully accelerates once the first clues of Brookeu0026#39;s disappearance are uncovered.u003cbr/u003eu003cbr/u003eSome elements of the film at times, lean too hard into melodrama that lacks actual substance, especially in the vague and unmoving first third of the film. Cuts to some flashbacks that felt somewhat cliche a script that at times felt too expository, and perhaps two-too-many Phoebe Bridgers needle drops; tools that ask the audience to engage with the characters and the mysterious tragedy that haunts them. These elements may have been appropriate in the context of a television episode, considering Pankiwu0026#39;s background in TV direction, but unfortunately fell flat within a full-length feature film.u003cbr/u003eu003cbr/u003eAmidst these faults, one of the filmu0026#39;s greatest strengths is its talented cast. Rachel Sennottu0026#39;s has not only cemented herself as a star of off-beat and relatable comedy but also demonstrated a striking capacity for performances filled with intense vulnerability, harmoniously embodying all relevant elements of the tragicomedy genre. Her ability to foster chemistry with the rest of the cast only adds further dimension to the sorrow and humor that defines her characteru0026#39;s journey.u003cbr/u003eu003cbr/u003eOverall, I Used to Be Funny poses an intimate image of how trauma can take control of our lives and sense of self-worth. While bleak, the potential for healing is also presented as the empathetic and hopeful conclusion to Sam and Brookeu0026#39;s journey. While the filmu0026#39;s approach at times lacks the ingenuity and impact it clearly intended to bring, it remains that Pankiwu0026#39;s strength lies in how she stays firm with the difficult themes and issues she addresses.”