Funny Ha Ha
(2002)
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Shot in 16mm, FUNNY HA HA examines life after college in an understated and moving way. Written, directed, and co-starring Andrew Bujalski, the film features impressively naturalistic performances led by newcomer Kate Dollenmayer (a friend of Bujalski's from film school and animator on WAKING LIFE), whose commanding yet familiar presence may lead viewers to feel she's someone they've known for years. In fact everything about FUNNY HA HA feels familiar, from the characters to the dialogue. While reminiscent of early Richard Linklater work like SLACKER due to its slow pace and focus on human interaction, the conversations in FUNNY HA HA are less philosophical in theme, and more grounded in reality (awkward silences, stuttering, miscommunication, etc). Focusing more on character than on plot, the film revolves loosely around Marnie (Dollenmayer), an attractive and intelligent young woman searching clumsily for some sense of purpose in what seems at times like an aimless life. Nearing 24 and recently unemployed, Marnie spends her days hanging out with friends she knew in college, trying out unsatisfying temp positions, and pining after an unavailable and unwilling love interest. Bujalski's script and the seemingly improvisational performances of his cast capture the pains, joys, and frustrations of everyday life. Like Marnie, FUNNY HA HA is consumed not so much by an outward angst, but rather the reluctantly accepted reality that life is not perfect. In exploring the themes of Marnie's life, it artfully shows that people aren't always good or bad, things aren't always black and white, boundaries are easily blurred, and timing is often off. The world of the film is one that many viewers should recognise--one in which tragedy, humour, sadness, and happiness all coexist. |
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Of the American independent filmmakers who have emerged during this decade, Andrew Bujalski has the most decisive and distinctive voice. He is a filmmaker with the rare ability to marry form and content in the depiction of a 'slice of life' that has never before been shown on the screen with such clarity
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