I Used to Be Funny: A Gripping Exploration of Trauma and Comedy
Comedian Rachel Sennott shines in this dramatic role
I Used to Be Funny, the debut feature from writer-director Ally Pankiw, is a poignant exploration of trauma, comedy, and the complexities of human relationships. The film tells the story of Sam, a stand-up comedian struggling with PTSD, who must weigh her options when a teenage girl she used to nanny goes missing.
“Traumatic experiences suck the life and joy out of an individual.”
The film is less about the disappearance of the 14-year-old girl and more about the emotional toll that traumatic experiences can take on a person. Rachel Sennott, a rising talent in the comedy world, delivers a powerful performance as Sam, a former stand-up comedian and nanny to the missing girl, Brooke. Olga Petsa, in her breakthrough role, brings a sense of anguish and emotional pain to her portrayal of Brooke.
Olga Petsa shines in her breakthrough role as Brooke
The film’s pacing is deliberate and methodical, allowing the audience to piece together the events that led to Brooke’s disappearance. The use of flashbacks adds a layer of complexity to the storytelling, making it easier to understand the emotional bond between Sam and Brooke.
“The event’s severity involved a court case where the same comedy routine is used as evidence and pointed out by judges in an infuriatingly regressive fashion.”
The script tackles themes of trauma, PTSD, and the impact of social media on our lives. Sam’s struggles to come to terms with her past are deeply relatable, and her relationships with her friends and Brooke are authentic and heartfelt.
Supporting cast members Sabrina Jalees and Caleb Hearon bring comedic relief
The film’s indie soundtrack occasionally feels out of place, but the strong performances from the cast and the thoughtful direction from Ally Pankiw make up for it. I Used to Be Funny is a gripping exploration of the human experience, and it’s a must-watch for anyone interested in character-driven drama.
The chemistry between Rachel Sennott and Olga Petsa is undeniable
