I Used to Be Funny: Getting to the PTSD behind the Punchline

I Used To Be Funny is a dark dramedy that follows Sam Cowell (Rachel Sennott), an aspiring stand-up comedian and au pair struggling with PTSD, as she decides whether or not to join the search for Brooke (Olga Petsa), a missing teenage girl she used to nanny. The story exists between the present, where Sam tries to recover from her trauma and get back on stage, and the past, where memories of Brooke make it harder and harder to ignore the petulant teen’s sudden disappearance.

REVIEW:

In her feature debut, director Ally Pankiw presents “I Used to Be Funny,” a dark dramedy that explores the complexities of trauma, comedy, and personal recovery. The film stars Rachel Sennott as Sam Cowell, an aspiring stand-up comedian grappling with PTSD while deciding whether to join the search for Brooke, a teenage girl she once nannied.

The narrative switches, sometimes confusingly, between Sam’s present struggles and her past memories with Brooke, creating a fragmented timeline that mostly keeps the audience engaged. Sennott’s performance is a standout, showcasing her dramatic range and ability to balance humor with deep emotional pain.

Still, the film’s pacing can feel uneven. The slow reveal of Sam’s trauma, while intended to build suspense, sometimes drags, making the first half of the movie feel sluggish. Also,, the film’s attempt to tackle multiple heavy themes—#MeToo, cancel culture, and mental health—can feel overwhelming and somewhat disjointed.

Despite these flaws, “I Used to Be Funny” offers poignant moments and a heartfelt exploration of how trauma impacts creativity and relationships. The chemistry between Sennott and Olga Petsa, who plays Brooke, adds depth to the story, making their shared scenes particularly compelling.

“I Used to Be Funny” may not be perfect. It is a commendable effort that highlights Pankiw’s potential as a filmmaker and Sennott’s versatility as an actress. It’s a film that will resonate with those who appreciate a blend of humor and heartfelt drama, even if it occasionally stumbles along the way.