Brilliant Cinematic Masterpiece

Rating: 10/10 (17 January 2005)

Zach Braff's writing and directorial debut, Garden State, is a smart piece of cinema that is as touching as it is original. His character, Andrew Largeman, is a twenty-something actor who is in a very heavy anti-psychotic and depressant haze. Sam, played by Natalie Portman, contrasts Braff's absolutely neutral character with her bubbly, but fibbing nature. Peter Scarsgaard gives an excellent performance as Mark, Largeman's friend from high school.
Surprisingly, the most interesting character, at least in this reviewer's opinion, was Diego the porter, played by Method Man. He is only in the movie for two scenes, but his character was very curious, and Method Man milks his lines for all they were worth, without being over-the-top. His performance was top-notch and he deserves more interesting roles than How High and Soul Plane.
Overall, the movie was excellent. The script brilliantly shows the desperation and hope that comes with going home again, and does so with great humor, drama and heart. The cinematography was excellent, and the visual effects and camera tricks only enhanced the awesome performances in this gem of an indie flick.
I give it 5 SSRIs out of 5