MIFF: I Used to Be Funny

Sam is struggling to overcome a deeply traumatic event in her life and is unable to work, least of all in her chosen field of stand-up comedy.

"I Used to Be Funny" is an original film with an unconventional story structure. The production is indie in tone and as savvy as a teenager, highlighted by a narrative where phones feature as indispensable in social circles. The perfectly cast lead actor's portrayal of a woman trying to come to terms with her recent experience, and resume life as it was, is at once funny, vulnerable, acute/cunning, sardonic, and determined. Outstanding. It's fitting that the betrayal central to the plot is given less focus than the support and friendship offered in the aftermath. Courage doesn't grow overnight.

MIFF 2023
105 mins