New movie tackles serious teenage setbacks

By Staff Writer

A new movie starring Zach Galifianakis offers a realistic portrayal of teenage depression, says a film critic from the The Fourth Estate.

"It's Kind of a Funny Story" is a movie that tackles serious issues in a comedic format, according to the writer. The main character is a teenager, played by Keir Gilchrist, who is admitted to a psychiatric ward after he experiences suicidal thoughts.

While getting to know two other patients, one of them played by Galfianakis, Gilchrist's character develops his passions and talents while learning how to appreciate the joys of life. The reviewer from the news source praises the film for showing the difference between addressing depression as a teen and combating it into adulthood.

Betsy Sharkey from the Los Angeles Times says that the film sheds light on the potential pitfalls for a bright, success-obsessed teenager.

"[The movie] is kind of a perfect coming-of-age comedy, with its bittersweet fun set loose in the adult psych ward of a Brooklyn hospital where this clever case of teenage depression, identity and self-esteem is examined," Sharkey wrote of the film.