Nice Understated Ambiance

Rating: 9/10 (12 April 2005)

This movie feels right. The plot is interesting but doesn't get in the way of the film-making. In a context in which so many movies are plot-driven, it's quite refreshing to have one that isn't. In fact, had read much of the plot and knowing what would happen didn't seem to take much of the pleasure of the movie. Oh, it's not necessarily mind-bogglingly new, original, innovative, and edgy. But that doesn't seem to be the point. It's not a revolution in film-making but it's a specific style. Which can be compared to different things depending on people's own references. Much of it must have to do with Zach Braff's age and level of experience. Somehow, the movie seems relatively unhindered by so many cinematic conventions. It's not about breaking rules and some details may look like a film student's first attempt, but it's about creating something the director would like to watch. A worthy goal. There are several "ambiance movies" these days. This one is quite subtle. Muted. Understated. Yes, the music is quite good. But it's made better through presentation. Part of it is great sound editing. Part of it is the connection between music and scene. Part of it is the additional music which sets the stage for the rest of the music. Part of it is just the feel of the music... The ambiance carries through much of the acting with a few exceptions. While there's a notion of some characters being more extreme than others, contrasts aren't abrupt or extreme. Most of the important lines are carried out in a casual manner. Nothing seemed to be meant as "Oscar(tm)-grabbing look at my acting" though everyone does at least a decent job. Would have expected more "laugh out loud" humor. Many lines, scenes, and references are funny enough, but it's not meant to give you cramps from laughing too hard. Some elements seem absurd enough but become so integrated in the movie as a whole that their effect is an overall feeling of "magic dust" as opposed to a whole magical universe or some strikingly new ideas. Would watch it again. Feels good. Like listening to a song a couple of times at the opportune moment.