It's Kind of a Funny Story

16-year-old Craig Gilner stands on the edge of the Brooklyn Bridge, contemplating a drastic step. Overwhelmed by his feelings, he decides to seek help rather than succumb to despair.

Upon arriving at the hospital, Craig urgently expresses his need for assistance to Dr. Mahmoud. His admission to the psychiatric ward marks the beginning of a transformative experience for him.

As Craig adjusts to life in the ward, he is plagued by worries about missing school and what his friends will think. His crush, Nia, and her boyfriend Aaron weigh heavily on his mind.

Due to a lack of teenage patients, Craig finds himself in the adult ward. This new environment challenges him as he feels out of place among older patients who are dealing with serious issues.

In the adult ward, Craig meets Bobby, an adult patient who claims to be on vacation. Bobby becomes a mentor for Craig, sharing wisdom and experiences that help him feel less isolated.

Recognizing Bobby’s nerves about an upcoming interview, Craig offers him one of his father’s dress shirts. This act of kindness leads to a connection with Noelle, another teen patient in the ward.

Craig and Noelle bond over a creative painting session where he illustrates a city map representing his mind. This artistic endeavor becomes a pivotal moment for their budding friendship.

Nia visits Craig at the hospital and reveals her breakup with Aaron. In a moment of tension, she tries to seduce him but their interaction is interrupted, leading to unexpected emotions.

During his interaction with Nia, Craig professes his love for her, unaware that Noelle is present. This confession leads to confusion and hurt feelings, causing Noelle to leave.

After some time apart, Craig reconciles with Noelle. They share a liberating moment, running through the hospital and culminating in a kiss on the roof, symbolizing their newfound bond.

Craig hosts a pizza party for his fellow patients, bringing joy and camaraderie to the ward. He encourages Muqtada to step out of his room, fostering a sense of liberation within the group.

On the last night of his stay, Craig bids farewell to Bobby, who has been accepted into a halfway house. Their parting is marked by heartfelt words and Craig's reflection on imagined brain maps.

The next day, Craig leaves the hospital with a sense of renewed resolve rather than a full cure. He feels the weight of his experiences, ready to embrace life with a fresh perspective.

After leaving the hospital, Craig musters the courage to confront his father about his own aspirations. He begins to articulate where his true passions lie, realizing they diverge from his father's expectations.

Craig starts to understand that his true interests are in creativity, particularly through painting and singing. This realization empowers him to pursue a path more aligned with his passions.