Garden State

This directorial debut from Zach Braff is a surprisingly amazing film. I, of course, have seen Scrubs and know Braff from that. But I had no idea that he was such a talented writer and director too. Garden State was a hilarious coming of age drama that was perfectly sincere while still remaining funny. I really loved the pacing of this film. It was perfect in its pacing, how it always is drudging along at a slow rate the whole time. It never stops or goes faster, it's always just in motion. And the world that Braff creates in this film is perfect in how the scenarios always are absurd and funny in their absurdity, but still feel believable as something that could happen. The character of Andrew in this film also is stellar, he's a very layered and emotional creation which is one of the best film characters I've seen in awhile. The soundtrack is amazing here, the whole cast gives great performances, the photography is great, it's all a great film. Braff's world-building here is phenomenal, and the whole film is a deep and emotionally full project.

Good little movie, good acting by Zach, Natalie and Peter.

This is a movie that I put off watching for a long time. I'm glad I finally saw it. The story revolves around a dysfunctional family, former high school friends who are losers, and a young woman who comes into the life of a man and changes his life. Neither he nor she has answers, but they resolve to work on life together. In the end, that's a hopeful outcome.

An earthy and endearing movie. For someone who experience things like depression or just a desire to do something no ones done before, this might strike a nerve with you.

I miss the early 2000s when liking garden state and vampire weekend would get me girls, truly simpler times.

The ultimate finding yourself rom com. Great cast, writing it poetry, cinematography has so many memorable shots, the perfected manic pixie dream girl character. The best soundtrack in movies.

The Garden State offers a quirky and fantastic movie that I recommend. The movie is very sad at certain points, and the soundtrack is absolutely amazing. It is heartfelt and personal, with great performances, especially by Natalie Portman and Zach Braff. The theme is great, focusing on finding meaning in the small things in life. The dialogue is humorous and authentic, and the script is well-written. The cinematography captures a sense of melancholy. Ultimately, it’s a touching and memorable journey worth taking.

Some aspects of the story aged terribly over 20 years, but the good stuff holds up pretty well.

Garden State has a vibe and unique feeling to it that I absolutely love. The soundtrack, the tone, the script, it all creates this slightly depressing world, but not in a bad way. This depiction of estrangement, grief and finding purpose is crafted into a beautiful story that I was drawn to. The film is extremely quirky, with moments so strange that they could be off-putting to some. That being said, those moments are what make this movie feel so real. I have always been a fan of Zach Braff's acting, but this made me love his writing and directing as well. Best Character: Sam (the manic pixie dream girl) Best Quote: "It's like you feel homesick for a place that doesn't even exist." - Largeman Best Scene: The Hamster Burial Best Song: "Don't Panic" - Coldplay Watch filtered on VidAngel

This is a classic. Its definitely nostalgia-filled for me, but after going so many years before rewatching I realized that it's also a great film. I've gone from my mid 20s to the early 30s. I love it all the same, yet for different reasons. If it were written, I'd read the book.