"I Used to Be Funny": A Journey Through Comedy and Trauma
On stage, comedians use their words to make people laugh, gasp, or think—sometimes all at once. But what happens when a joke is used against a comedian? This is one of the tough questions Ally Pankiw’s bold debut movie, “I Used to Be Funny,” explores.
Meet Sam: From Comedian to Struggling Survivor
The film centers on Sam (Rachel Sennott), who is in a deep funk when we first meet her. She's barely managing to shower, has withdrawn from her local comedy club, and relies on her friends and roommates, Paige (Sabrina Jalees) and Philip (Caleb Hearon), to cover her rent. Through flashbacks and conversations, we learn that Sam used to be an au pair for a troubled teen named Brooke (Olga Petsa). Brooke's mom is dying, her aunt Jill (Dani Kind) helps as much as she can, and her dad Cameron (Jason Jones) is always busy with work. Sam steps in as a supportive big sister, but now everything has changed. She used to be funny—so what happened?
The Mystery Unfolds
Pankiw, who wrote and directed the film, skillfully weaves between Sam’s present struggles and her past, when she was funny and caring. The story is told in bits and pieces, keeping us intrigued without overwhelming us. We see Sam and Brooke grow close and then drift apart. These shared moments are the heart of the movie, making their lost connection feel even more tragic.
Exploring Trauma
“I Used to Be Funny” isn’t just about a comedian and her young charge. It's a deep dive into trauma and its impact on creativity and relationships. The movie shows how the violence Sam experienced spreads into every part of her life, causing both visible and invisible damage. Her own jokes are used against her in court, highlighting ongoing conversations from the #MeToo movement. To reclaim her story, Sam must fight to hold onto her comedic self and the relationships that matter most to her.
Rachel Sennott's Powerful Performance
Sennott plays two versions of Sam: one before and one after the traumatic event. In one part of the movie, she’s bright, energetic, and unafraid to crack raunchy jokes or argue about "Twilight" to make Brooke smile. In the other part, she looks worn out, moving through her apartment like a ghost of her former self. Known for her comedic roles in “Shiva Baby,” “Bodies Bodies Bodies,” and “Bottoms,” Sennott proves she’s just as talented in dramatic roles.
Comedy and Vulnerability
Many great comedians dig deep, exposing their vulnerable side, and turn moments that would make us cry into insightful jokes. They invite us to laugh at life’s absurdities and our shared human experiences. “I Used to Be Funny” handles its themes thoughtfully, presenting the story like a mystery that Sam must solve to move forward. It touches on issues of consent and relationships along the way.
Conclusion
“I Used to Be Funny” is a thoughtful exploration of trauma and recovery. Pankiw and Sennott bring Sam’s story to life with a creative and sensitive approach, painting a sympathetic picture of someone learning to cope with life’s tragedies and rediscovering her funny side despite everything.