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Zach Braff’s (TV’s Scrubs)
makes his debut as writer and director in this powerful film about a man returning home
and having an internal awakening. Braff plays Andrew Largeman, a Jersey native who’s now
an actor in Los Angeles. After being estranged from his father for 10 years, Largeman
returns to New Jersey for his mother’s funeral.
Largeman has spent most
of his life on anti-depressant medication, but after a doctor’s visit for headaches, he
makes the decision to stop taking them. He also meets Samantha (Natalie Portman) while
in the doctor’s office. A friendship develops between the two as Largeman hangs out and
introduces her to old friends.
The film revolves around Largemen’s time
in Jersey. It includes partying and hanging out, facing past demons, and falling in
love—but it’s not as trite or cliché as it may seem. Braff’s script also doesn’t follow
the traditional screenplay three-act structure. Instead, the story flows in the same way
that life unfolds.
This movie struck a personal chord on many levels.
Before I met my wife, I’d developed a hard center to match my rough exterior, and I was
often closed when it came to emotional matters. I never did the medication thing, and my
mother is still alive, but like Largeman, it was a long time before my father and I could
share an adult conversation. This is why one of my favorite scenes is when Largeman
climbs on top of an old crane and just screams out loud. I was moved by hearing and
seeing that release and freedom of pain, and it made the moment very powerful.
Extras on the DVD included a better than usual behind-the-scenes look at
Garden State, deleted scenes, outtakes, commentary, and more.
I
certainly recommend this movie for independent film fans. In fact, everyone should see
it at least once.
GRADE: A (movie) A (DVD)
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