Like I discussed yesterday, I am reviewing 'Garden State'. This is a movie that is written, directed and acted in by Zach Braff of 'Scrubs' fame. It is a strange movie. Unlike any movie that I have ever really seen. It has a very indy film feel. It is also a very melancholy movie. Don't expect to be on the edge of your seat and excited for this film. It is not that kind of movie.
Now that I have given up trying to describe the film, I will go on. Overall this was a very good film. The story was well written. The directing was well done and the acting superb. The story is about a guy who comes back home for his mom's funeral after being gone for nine years. The movie follows the days right after. The story goes some places that you don't expect it to. It starts off darkly and like I said before, melancholy. It ends very warmly and satisfyingly though. It is a very good story about life and its turns.
The directing has a very simple feel, but is done well. The camera angles and shots are superb. It gives a little bit of an old-fashioned feel to it. The directing is there just to support the actors and story. Some movies try to make the movie through direction. This directing in the movie just adds nice touches to a good movie.
The acting on the other hand is simply great. Zach Braff does well as the melancholy lead. He doesn't try to overact, but simply play the character as written. Since he wrote the movie, he probably has a good idea. Natalie Portman plays a loveable yet quirky girl. She adds so much to the film and shows that she can act when allowed to. Padme in Star Wars is not who she is. It is amazing the differences between her acting in those two. The other actors play their parts well.
The movie does contain things that were less than enjoyable. The language is overkill. No need to go there. There was one short scene of sexuality that had nothing to do with the rest of the movie. Why is it there? Ridiculous. Oh well. Also, if drug use is an issue, this movie is full of it.
So there you go. An odd review for an odd film.
6.01.2005
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2 comments:
I watched this movie when it was first released on DVD. I really liked it. However, the first half hour is messed up. I almost turned it off, but am glad I didn't. After that it really turns around and has a nice "feel good" ending. Good review Matt.
Just finished The Life Aquatic. Another Wes Anderson flick. if you liked Rushmore and The Royal Tennabuams then it is definately worth watching. Just another quirky flick.
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