In order to create a film adaptation to the book It's Kind of a Funny Story, certain aspects of the book would need to be changed while still staying true to the story. There are some scenes from the book that would have to be kept in the movie because of their importance to the story. The movie would need to include at least an overall summary of everything that happens before he goes to the hospital. Although the main plot of the story comes from Craig being in the hospital, it is important to know the back story and how he ended up there. This would include his acceptance into Executive Pre-Professional High School, where his problems began. The stress of the school plays a major part in his depression. Before entering the hospital, they should also show at least a little of the partying he did with Aaron as well as make known his feelings towards Aaron's girlfriend, Nia. Craig's phone call with Nia and the suicide hotline should be included because they lead to him going to the hospital. Another scene that should be included in the movie is the part in the book where Craig rekindles his love of map drawing. It is a huge part of his recovery and is what really turns him around. At the end of the book, it leads to him making the decision to switch high schools and pursue art. I feel like the maps are kind of the center of the book, and leaving them out would completely redirect the focus of the story. A third scene that I believe the movie must include is when Muqtada thanks Craig for helping him get better. It seems like an insignificant part of the book, but it shows the impact that Craig had on other people in the hospital and shows how Craig is not the only character to make any progress. Throughout the book, Craig lures his roommate, Muqtada, out of his bed that he never leaves because he is so depressed. Muqtada expresses his gratitude towards Craig and I think it's just a touching moment.
There are parts of the book that aren't imperative in telling the story. Ronny is a minor character who I feel would be better left out of the movie. He is one of Aaron's friends that parties with them and is only interested in getting high or drunk. He doesn't contribute much to the story except for being a bad influence on Craig. There are already enough characters to keep track of in the story. Taking Ronny out would just help to keep the focus of the movie clear and easy to follow. Another scene from the book that I think could be left out or shortened would be Craig's arriving to the hospital. This part of the book seemed to drag on for me. Craig arrives at the hospital and has to wait to see someone and then waits around more while random doctors come in and check on him. I think shortening this and maybe just including the part where he is told he will have to stay in the adult psychiatric facility will allow for more important scenes to be shown while still providing the important information from this part of the book.
