'It’s Kind of a Funny Story' surprisingly enjoyable

A film set against the background of teen anxiety, mental disorder and an institution doesn’t on the face of it appeal, yet this teen version of 'One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest' – based on the novel by Ned Vizini – is surprisingly and consistently watchable, thanks to a wide range of quality performances from the cast.

It’s a serious story that comes with laughs and a well thought out consideration of the problems facing the central character, high-flying teen Craig (a sterling and mature performance from Gilchrist) who is worried over his mental state and checks himself in for treatment.

But while he makes fairly good progress he finds he has to stay for the full five days, during which he comes across some interesting characters, including Bobby (Galifianakis, in his most measured performance to date) and troubled Noelle (Roberts).

Star Rating: 4/5