Although incited by a traumatic incident, I Used to Be Funny focuses on its nuanced aftermath. The simple plot allows its multifaceted drama to be unpacked gradually, delivered through spontaneous dialogue, foreshadowing, and a bittersweet arc. Meanwhile, its well-constructed humor plays a fundamental role in the story, serving as a complex and versatile tool for characters to process or guard their emotions. The script connects themes of relationships, class, sisterhood, and power dynamics. Finally, its acting exhibits measured range with varying mannerisms, layers, intensity, and vulnerability. Consequently, I Used to Be Funny advances conversations on important topics.
Technically, I Used to Be Funny molds an assured tone, accentuating tragedy with comedy. Its cinematography utilizes lighting and color to convey different emotional states. Blending dual timelines through match cuts and inserts, the editing is the film's backbone. Its subjective sound is heightened with consistent distortions, smash cuts, and split cuts. Through atmospheric scoring and hipster needle drops, the music creates a somber mood. Its production design lightly conveys classism as a contributing factor. The cast revolves around Sennott's rising stardom. Appropriately minimal, its effects amount to slight makeup. Overall, I Used to Be Funny is refreshingly thoughtful.
Writing: 9/10
Direction: 8/10
Cinematography: 7/10
Acting: 9/10
Editing: 9/10
Sound: 9/10
Score/Soundtrack: 7/10
Production Design: 6/10
Casting: 6/10
Effects: 6/10
Overall Score: 7.6/10
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