Garden State

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Huntin P @PaxVobiscum80 Sep 20, 2026 This movie is supposed to be jam packed with continuity goofs. I can't say I've noticed them. Maybe that's because the movie is so slight it doesn't seem worth studying that intently. Written, directed and starring Zach Braff, he of Scrubs fame, Garden State is the story of an actor, overmedicated, who returns home to New Jersey for his mother's funeral. He comes off his meds and starts to reassess his life. As he reconnects with friends, and dodges his overbearing father, Andrew (Braff) meets Samantha (Natalie Portman) and finds in her a kindred spirit. Could this be love? Garden State has its charms, no question. It is amusing, no doubt. An early performance from Jim Parsons as a lad clad in plate armour, and a terrific performance by Portman, her best since Leon (1994), I'd call it. The stuff about the big hole in the ground, and the later scenes with the father, and also at the airport, I dunno; they make me cringe now. There's also the feeling that Andrew, like JD, is an a-hole. See more Farah R @Farah Aug 27, 2026 It’s incredible how Garden State is so uneventful yet never dull. Its characters have a quiet charm that draws you in and makes you invested in their stories. The film paints a realistic picture of life, capturing both its beauty and its ugliness. I enjoyed how low stimulation it was. See more Le S @RT67114437 Aug 22, 2026 A great snapshot of post 9/11 society, with depression, unemployment, grief, heavy drug use, and mental health as central themes with a still up-and-coming Natalie Portman (even though she was already in the middle of the Star Wars trilogy) listening to The Shins in her Aiwa headphones. See more Judah S. @Judah3963 May 28, 2026 Garden State is beautiful in its own way. It expresses the true feeling of home through a relationship that balances itself out and leaves viewers with a warm feeling in their heart. Garden State’s weird kinks are enough to get around on when you understand the true meaning of its strange yet comical setting. See more Blake- N @PBSAniDom May 13, 2026 Garden State is a heartfelt indie dramedy about a young man returning to his New Jersey hometown after his mother’s death. It’s a fictional story, but it feels grounded and emotionally relatable. The film stands out thanks to its natural performances and quiet, awkward humor. The chemistry between the cast helps bring authenticity to the reflective tone, making the character moments feel genuine. Its soundtrack and atmosphere play a huge role in shaping the experience, giving the film a distinct mood that lingers well after it ends. The music especially enhances the emotional beats without overwhelming them. Overall, it’s a thoughtful, emotionally resonant film that balances comedy and introspection effectively. I’d rate it a 9/10. See more Thyaagu C @Thyaagu Mar 27, 2026 How is this movie so blank but still not boring? So emotionless, yet it still has feelings. This movie barely gives you a solid story or much to hold on to, but somehow time just flies without getting bored. There goes its win. See more Read all reviews

Garden State

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