It's Kind of A Really Good Movie

I recently had the pleasure of seeing Anna Boden and Ryan Fleck's new film, It's Kind of a Funny Story (2010), starring Zach Galifianakis, Emma Roberts and newcomer, Keir Gilchrist.  The premise is rather simple: Craig (Gilchrist), a clinically depressed high-schooler, checks himself into an adult psychiatric ward in an effort to seek help for his suicidal thoughts.  During his short stint in the hospital, Craig not only meets a slew of interesting characters, but also learns much about life, love, and the pressures we all endure while growing up and finding ourselves.

The writing and directing of the film deserves recognition; it is just the right balance of seriousness, comedy, and whimsy.  However, for a film set in a mental ward it is certianly very light on the "drama" or "intensity" (i.e. this is no One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest or Girl, Interrupted).  In fact, the hospital and its inhabitants all seem very nice and happy, especially Bobby (Galifianakis), who becomes Craig's closest friend and mentor.  If people like this really are in psychiatric wards, I wouldn't mind checking myself in as well.

This film is entertaining and well-acted.  Galifianakis was perfectly cast; likable, funny, and characteristically quirky.  Gilchrist also delivers a solid performance and has great chemistry with his co-stars, Galifianakis and Roberts.  His lead performance was believable and he brings much charisma to the screen... I look forward to seeing him in other roles in the future.  

I recommend people check this one out.  I doubt many will be disappointed.  And if you are a fan of cheesy lip-synching there is an awesome performance of David Bowie/Queen's Under Pressure.  And now that you have that to look forward to, why would you not want to see this?

Has anyone else seen this film?  If so, what'd you think?