16 reviews
get rid of the aunt
Sam Cowell (Rachel Sennott) is a stand-up comic with some success who does a bit of work as a nanny. Her 14 year old former charge Brooke Renner (Olga Petsa) is declared missing and shows up smashing her door in anger. Two years earlier, Sam gets hired by Cameron Renner (Jason Jones) to watch his 12 year old daughter while his wife is sick in the hospital.
The first half is intriguing. The mystery of the incident keeps my interest. Once it's revealed, the movie goes into Lifetime territories. The one glaring problem is the aunt's presence. Sam would notify her at every step. The fact that she exists is an exit ramp for Sam to take. That diminishes the intensity of the story. If she doesn't exist, Brooke would be running away from a foster home. The police could be less than co-operative. Then Sam would feel like she's Brooke's only hope. That would raise the intensity of the second half. As for Olga Petsa, she's a little old to play a 12 year old. Brooke's young age is very important to her feelings. Otherwise, Sennott is excellent. I can see this story working, but it needs some changes.
The first half is intriguing. The mystery of the incident keeps my interest. Once it's revealed, the movie goes into Lifetime territories. The one glaring problem is the aunt's presence. Sam would notify her at every step. The fact that she exists is an exit ramp for Sam to take. That diminishes the intensity of the story. If she doesn't exist, Brooke would be running away from a foster home. The police could be less than co-operative. Then Sam would feel like she's Brooke's only hope. That would raise the intensity of the second half. As for Olga Petsa, she's a little old to play a 12 year old. Brooke's young age is very important to her feelings. Otherwise, Sennott is excellent. I can see this story working, but it needs some changes.
- SnoopyStyle
- Aug 31, 2024
- Permalink
Frustrating Storytelling
I found the description of this movie to be deceptive. The story is about a former comedian where something happened that derailed her life.
The description says PSTD but what this trauma event is it not immediately revealed. The movie spends the three quarters of the time dancing around something having happened.
The dialog tries to be hip about teenage topics but it is mostly just cringe. No cap.
Much of the story is told as flash backs interweaved into the present so such it's never really clear when anything is occurring until several beats into a scene. I found this all irritating and bad story telling.
The movie eludes to what may have happened and while it's possible to guess, it's makes it all the worse that they don't just say it.
Everyone in the movie knows what happened but we are left out of being shared the details. Conversations about the event happen over and over to the point of becoming fraying, like an inside joke that no one will explain to you until you start to wonder if the pay off will be worth it.
It won't.
This fake tension is bad story telling. There is a missing child and the description creates a narrative that this is a big part of the movie but it's simply not. Our main character spends most of the movie unconcerned about the child's whereabouts. Its only purpose is to provide an ending to an otherwise meandering mess of a movie.
The description says PSTD but what this trauma event is it not immediately revealed. The movie spends the three quarters of the time dancing around something having happened.
The dialog tries to be hip about teenage topics but it is mostly just cringe. No cap.
Much of the story is told as flash backs interweaved into the present so such it's never really clear when anything is occurring until several beats into a scene. I found this all irritating and bad story telling.
The movie eludes to what may have happened and while it's possible to guess, it's makes it all the worse that they don't just say it.
Everyone in the movie knows what happened but we are left out of being shared the details. Conversations about the event happen over and over to the point of becoming fraying, like an inside joke that no one will explain to you until you start to wonder if the pay off will be worth it.
It won't.
This fake tension is bad story telling. There is a missing child and the description creates a narrative that this is a big part of the movie but it's simply not. Our main character spends most of the movie unconcerned about the child's whereabouts. Its only purpose is to provide an ending to an otherwise meandering mess of a movie.
- imdb-392-492467
- Jun 22, 2024
- Permalink
Interestingly structured but draining and ultimately a chore to get through
IUTBF is a tough movie to love. I guess you would have to live in the disillusioned LA Gen Z bubble to understand any of the characters or their motivations. Cinema is best defined as an empathy creating machine but this movie made me feel nothing.
The issue is mostly the awkward, stilted conversations in the screenplay. The opaque plot doesn't help. The flashback scenes provide some drama but also make the whole film seem like a Greek tragedy.
The direction is actually fairly effective, the acting, however, is not. Some of the characters will be grating to a 'normal' audience. Hence the need for the bubble.
I never thought that a movie about a stand up comic could be so laugh free.
The issue is mostly the awkward, stilted conversations in the screenplay. The opaque plot doesn't help. The flashback scenes provide some drama but also make the whole film seem like a Greek tragedy.
The direction is actually fairly effective, the acting, however, is not. Some of the characters will be grating to a 'normal' audience. Hence the need for the bubble.
I never thought that a movie about a stand up comic could be so laugh free.
- stevelivesey-37183
- Jun 19, 2024
- Permalink
A substantial blend of fragile drama and witty humour
Ally Pankiw's feature debut "I Used to be Funny" 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.
Pankiw's choice to present the story through sequencing between Sam's mission to find a missing Brooke, the young girl she nannied, and frequent flashbacks of memories of the two'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 Brooke's disappearance are uncovered.
Some 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 Pankiw's background in TV direction, but unfortunately fell flat within a full-length feature film.
Amidst these faults, one of the film's greatest strengths is its talented cast. Rachel Sennott'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 character's journey.
Overall, 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 Brooke's journey. While the film's approach at times lacks the ingenuity and impact it clearly intended to bring, it remains that Pankiw's strength lies in how she stays firm with the difficult themes and issues she addresses.
Pankiw's choice to present the story through sequencing between Sam's mission to find a missing Brooke, the young girl she nannied, and frequent flashbacks of memories of the two'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 Brooke's disappearance are uncovered.
Some 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 Pankiw's background in TV direction, but unfortunately fell flat within a full-length feature film.
Amidst these faults, one of the film's greatest strengths is its talented cast. Rachel Sennott'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 character's journey.
Overall, 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 Brooke's journey. While the film's approach at times lacks the ingenuity and impact it clearly intended to bring, it remains that Pankiw's strength lies in how she stays firm with the difficult themes and issues she addresses.
- hanchi-85296
- Oct 23, 2023
- Permalink
Brutal but mid
Powerful message and subject in this movie but the journey its a little tiresome, there is no real history here, its a basic movie, the protagonist is amazing but the rest of the cast are not very good in this, they are rookies I guess, they are not the best actors in here tbh, the way the story is told is kinda of make no sense just like this review, it's convoluted and not easy to follow but maybe im slow i don't know, the protagonist is a very funny stand up comedy artist and she is fighting some demons in this movie, and that's a very interesting thing to follow but the way its told through flashbacks it wasn't really neccesary, its hard to understand ok guys.
A profound cinematic experience
"I Used to Be Funny" is a captivating Canadian film that masterfully weaves together raw, heartbreaking moments with a surprising touch of humor. Rachel Sennott's performance shines yet again, reaffirming my unwavering admiration for her talent. As both the lead and a true force on screen, Sennott's portrayal effortlessly captures the complexities of the character's journey.
Ally Pankiw's directorial debut is stellar, showcasing a deep understanding of the human experience. While not flawless, the film's imperfections only add to its authenticity. Pankiw's skillful storytelling draws viewers into the protagonist's world, offering an accurate depiction of life with PTSD. The film's ability to blend these elements in a way that's both poignant and relatable makes it a must-see for anyone seeking a moving cinematic experience.
Ally Pankiw's directorial debut is stellar, showcasing a deep understanding of the human experience. While not flawless, the film's imperfections only add to its authenticity. Pankiw's skillful storytelling draws viewers into the protagonist's world, offering an accurate depiction of life with PTSD. The film's ability to blend these elements in a way that's both poignant and relatable makes it a must-see for anyone seeking a moving cinematic experience.
Interesting storytelling
As a person who has also experienced trauma, I've often wondered - how would I ever approach writing a book or movie about my experiences, and honestly the way this movie used flashbacks did resonate with me.
I can understand how some might feel it's disjointed, but honestly that's sometimes how living with PTSD, depression, etc. Feels like.
I know some people complained that it's not funny, I guess I didn't expect it to be laugh out loud funny based on the description - it literally includes PTSD in the description and is called "I used to be funny" - i.e. She doesn't feel funny anymore.
Overall, I appreciated the storytelling.
I can understand how some might feel it's disjointed, but honestly that's sometimes how living with PTSD, depression, etc. Feels like.
I know some people complained that it's not funny, I guess I didn't expect it to be laugh out loud funny based on the description - it literally includes PTSD in the description and is called "I used to be funny" - i.e. She doesn't feel funny anymore.
Overall, I appreciated the storytelling.
Rachel Sennott is brilliant
I came into this movie after just watching the movie bottoms and wanted to watch another Rachel Sennott, I left this movie speechless. I was not expecting this film to be so unexpectedly good. This movie sets the narrative with a comedian who has PTSD looking for a missing girl. This movie balances her comedic skills with a very harsh topic. The movie takes place at two different times showing the differences of her character and also getting more character background as well. The way they panned out this movie is just right and is not too slow. If you're looking for a movie to laugh at, but also cry to this is the movie for you.
- alanag-51783
- Sep 3, 2024
- Permalink
She Used to Be Funny you guys
I find the back and forth between past and present extremely unnecessary. It tries so hard to be 'mysterious' with its story telling but it ended up being excruciatingly cheesy and predictable. It's not as groundbreaking and profound as it think it did.
Although there are some funny moments, there's a significant imbalance between the poignant drama and the comedy. It fails to smoothly blend the two, and ended up being awkward and sometimes cringe.
I'm a massive fan of Sennott, and unfortunately her alone cannot carry the whole film. Ironically the only funny character, among dozens of stand up comedians.
Although there are some funny moments, there's a significant imbalance between the poignant drama and the comedy. It fails to smoothly blend the two, and ended up being awkward and sometimes cringe.
I'm a massive fan of Sennott, and unfortunately her alone cannot carry the whole film. Ironically the only funny character, among dozens of stand up comedians.
Rachel Sennott gets the last laugh in poignant drama
Comedy is inherent in calling on personal experiences for a joke. Humor is a defense mechanism and a willing tool to break the ice and even recover. Comedy is healing and is used significantly in the film I Used To Be Funny. In a somewhat dark comedy set against the backdrop of the #MeToo era, the film stars Rachel Sennott as a struggling comic battling PTSD who takes part in a search for a missing girl she used to nanny. The film tackles heavy subject matter with airy deftness, and what ties it together is Sennott's arresting performance. In an edgy and humorous film, I Used To Be Funny takes center stage as one of the year's best.
Full review @ Geek Vibes Network.
Full review @ Geek Vibes Network.
- philwmovies
- Jul 20, 2024
- Permalink
I used to value my time...
I used to value my time, but then for some reason I found myself watching this. I would like to get back to valuing my own time... Clearly this is movie not aimed at me, but non the less I found the performances poor, the script cringe-inducing and story line boring and meandering. If I were to recommend this to anyone it would only be to north Americans aged between 14 and 21. Fortunately I do not know anyone in that demographic, so am unable to recommend it at all. If I were to recommend this to anyone it would only be to north Americans aged between 14 and 21. Fortunately I do not know anyone in that demographic, so am unable to recommend it at all.
- owen-691-380910
- Jun 30, 2024
- Permalink
Sennott is a marvel!!
Rachel Sennott first came on my radar when Shiva Baby was released. I loved her in that, and have followed her work since then. I think that she brings a certain charm and personality to any role she has, and this movie was no different. I will start off by saying that unlike her previous works, this one did not rely heavily on comedy, hardly at all. It is a total drama and it is heartbreaking. I saw one review on here say that it is "a chore to get through", which it kind of is, but the material and content of the story needs the viewer to be uncomfortable in order for the movie to accomplish its goal. I highly recommend!
- iandavelhewan
- Jun 29, 2024
- Permalink
Beautiful but wouldn't describe as comedy.
- idelvaespindolav
- Jul 11, 2024
- Permalink
Must see!
This was a wonderfully written story. The casting was perfection, as if the role was written for Rachel Sennott. She more than proved that comedy is not the only genre in which she shines. That being said, there is a lot of humor in this film.
The content is heavy and Sam's situation is relatable in that she is torn between helping someone she loves and protecting herself from further trauma.
A beautiful first film by writer/director Ally Pankiw. She handled a very difficult topic with care and compassion while acknowledging the mess and reality of life. Would recommend and looking forward to her future work!
The content is heavy and Sam's situation is relatable in that she is torn between helping someone she loves and protecting herself from further trauma.
A beautiful first film by writer/director Ally Pankiw. She handled a very difficult topic with care and compassion while acknowledging the mess and reality of life. Would recommend and looking forward to her future work!
- marlabartel
- Apr 18, 2024
- Permalink
Watch it w.o knowing anything
Thankfully I tend to go to the movies and just pick anything, as long as it's not a trash action film. This was one of those picks. I did have expectations but they were quite low because 1-I didn't know what the movie was about and 2-I don't quite care for the Sam (I can't remember her name) actress (yet). This is only the second movie I see with them as the lead and was fully ready to just be blah by this movie too (shiva baby). This actress is just a smidge more emotionally capable slight range in speech and facial expression than Kristen S. I like dry actors but this ever so slight expression unsettles me a bit (i dont know why:).
Anywho enough about that this movie starts out slow and not knowing what will happen or what the movie was about really helped stay focus. If I had known what the movie was about before hand I'd say this was boring but it really wasn't. Well it wasn't that boring it could have used better comedic lines. It picks up once you learn the father's occupation and sadly from that instant you know something horrid happened. I really wished they wouldn't show it but went on with the vagueness that explained but it wasn't to anxiety stricken that one couldn't bare it. It was needed, especially for the folk that probably wouldn't have guessed correctly.
Overall stop reading people's thoughts on something or watching ad trailers before watching a movie. It helps to know a rough premise and that's that.
Anywho enough about that this movie starts out slow and not knowing what will happen or what the movie was about really helped stay focus. If I had known what the movie was about before hand I'd say this was boring but it really wasn't. Well it wasn't that boring it could have used better comedic lines. It picks up once you learn the father's occupation and sadly from that instant you know something horrid happened. I really wished they wouldn't show it but went on with the vagueness that explained but it wasn't to anxiety stricken that one couldn't bare it. It was needed, especially for the folk that probably wouldn't have guessed correctly.
Overall stop reading people's thoughts on something or watching ad trailers before watching a movie. It helps to know a rough premise and that's that.
- mentiramivida6
- Jun 15, 2024
- Permalink
Spoiler : not a movie about Tom Cruise
Still a very enjoyable movie seen the limited budget that it was made with.
The movie starts slow at the beginning but then picks up pace.
Sam (Rachel Sennott) looks like one of those stand up comedians you meet once in a while in a stand up comedian club of which you wonder afterwards how they are doing because you never see them again in that same stand up comedy bar.
At some point you wonder whether they moved on to something new or if they moved to another stand up comedy bar which you aren't visiting and getting better reviews for their work or that they might end up suddenly in some movie which you just happen to view on a rainy day.
I guess that is what the movie is really about.
The movie starts slow at the beginning but then picks up pace.
Sam (Rachel Sennott) looks like one of those stand up comedians you meet once in a while in a stand up comedian club of which you wonder afterwards how they are doing because you never see them again in that same stand up comedy bar.
At some point you wonder whether they moved on to something new or if they moved to another stand up comedy bar which you aren't visiting and getting better reviews for their work or that they might end up suddenly in some movie which you just happen to view on a rainy day.
I guess that is what the movie is really about.
- WillWorkForBananas
- Jun 17, 2024
- Permalink